Golden Apple Impact Award

On Monday, November 9, 2026, The Golden Apple Foundation will honor the Pepper Family Foundation for their support over the past 40 years and their seed investment to our Veterans Into Teaching initiative and special guest Hon. Eric Holcomb, 51st Governor of Indiana, Navy Veteran, and Co-Chair of RAISE US. RAISE US is a national, nonpartisan organization partnering with states, employers, training partners, and workers to help Americans make a successful transition to an AI economy.

About the Award

The Golden Apple Foundation’s Impact Award is an honor bestowed upon a private individual, company, policymaker, or decision-maker who has had a positive and significant influence on the lives of students.

Award recipients are recognized through several rigorous criteria, which include a commitment to better outcomes for all students in Illinois, an aspirational vision for the future, backed by actionable strategies, and data-driven, research-based decision-making paired with innovation.

Impact Award Recipients

Dr. Maureen Dunne