At the Early Learning Council’s meeting on June 24, 2026, Council members took a moment to highlight and award the 2026 Lynne Angland Award. The Lynne Angland Award recognizes people who improve safety, quality, affordability, and access to child care at state and local levels. This is the second year that Council has brought back this award as it both memorializes Lynne and spotlights the incredible ongoing work dedicated to improving the early childhood system.
Council Chair Liz Farrar Campbell presented Donna Schnitker with the 2026 Lynne Angland Award. Donna has been an extraordinary champion for young children and families, dedicating more than 30 years to this work! Based in Harney County, Donna has touched the lives of thousands of young children and families through her many roles in early childhood. She has served as the Director of Early Childhood Programs for the Harney Education Service District, President of the Oregon Head Start Association, a member of the Early Learning Council, and has made significant contributions to strengthening our Early Learning Hubs as the former Director. The Council is deeply grateful for her tremendous contributions to bettering the lives of young children and their families in Harney County, Eastern Oregon, and across our state.
“There are few people who have shaped the lives of Oregon’s young children and families as profoundly as Donna,” said Alyssa Chatterjee, DELC Director, “Oregon is deeply grateful for her unwavering commitment, which has strengthened communities and brightened the futures of countless children.”
Congratulations, Donna, and thank you for all you’ve done for Oregon’s children and families!
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