Denver Academy - Reach For The Stars Award

Reach For The Stars Award

Each year, Denver Academy gives the "Reach for the Stars" award to an individual or organization that through example, philanthropic endeavor, advocacy or a professional body of work, has raised awareness of the educational needs of children with learning differences.

Honorees:

Henry Winkler, 2007 Growing up with dyslexia, Henry Winkler struggled academically, but overcame his learning difference and earned degrees from Yale and Emerson College—including a Ph.D. With numerous television and film credits to his name, Winkler is also an accomplished author having written a series of children’s books based on his dyslexic struggles called, “Hank Zipzer-The Mostly True Confessions of the World’s Best Under-Achiever.” He visited Denver Academy in November 2008.

Dr. Nancy Gary, 2008 Renowned child psychologist Dr. Nancy Gary has devoted her professional career to the well being of children, especially those who have experienced difficulties that interfere with their school and peer relationships. She has made invaluable contributions in the world of mental health, child advocacy and education, and has made a difference in the lives of countless children with learning differences.

Debbie Phelps, 2009 Debbie Phelps is well known as an advocate for people with attention hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and is the mother of Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps. In addition to her work on behalf of ADHD, she has been an educator for more than thirty years and serves as the principal of Windsor Mill Middle School in Baltimore, Maryland.

Mayor John Hickenlooper, 2010 Denver Mayor John Hickenlooper is well known for his work to improve the education of students throughout the community. From his weekly school visits after he was elected Mayor in 2003 to forming citywide partnerships to sustain and expand quality school-based after-school programs, Hickenlooper has committed a great deal of energy and resources on educational issues. He is a champion for future generations and ensuring children of all ages and abilities receive the best education possible.