Because the mission of the Classroom of the Future Foundation (CFF) includes the objective of uniting business, community, and educational leaders, CFF created a new award in 2020 called the “Business Champion of the Year” to identify and show appreciation to a top business leader in San Diego County. CFF wanted to provide recognition to an organization that gives back to the community by helping local K-12 students to thrive in a competitive, global society— particularly in the area of college and career readiness.
After an application process and nominations from our supporters, we identified many worthy organizations throughout San Diego County that generously donate resources, time, and monetary support to enhance the educational experience for local K-12 students. But, in the first year of this award, one organization stood out due to its long-standing STEM education programs, youth programs, and their Overnight Adventures. It’s our honor to announce that the 2020 Business Champion of the Year Award winner is the USS Midway Museum.
Award Presentation Video
Business Champion of the Year Bio
Since the USS Midway Museum opened in 2004, the historical naval aircraft carrier and its staff have been instrumental as a leader in the community, both to generate tourism and as an educational organization. An array of Midway’s Education programs are hosted onboard in Midway University. Through state of the art education facilities, they are able to feature a wide range of dynamic learning adventures for youth and school groups from all over.
In addition, CFF and the Midway have partnered to present a customized curriculum to foster STEM education. The first program called “Career Discovery Cybersecurity Experience” is designed for 200 students annually to gain exposure to the cybersecurity industry sector. The latest program is called “Blue Economy Experience” to help 100 students each year to learn about the “BlueTech” sector and the sustainable use of water resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods and jobs, and water ecosystem health.
But the USS Midway Museum does more than just teach students, they also provide financial support to those in need as a sponsor of CFF’s High Tech Academic Achievement scholarships. The students in the AVID program that apply for these scholarships have excelled academically while overcoming many socioeconomic challenges, and are often the first in their family to attend a four-year school.
Now entering our 15th year as partners, CFF Operations Manager, Jane Schlosberg, was proud to state that the “USS Midway Museum is an amazing organization that is truly a champion in the community. As we enter Phase XV in our partnership, they continue to provide valuable educational services, program support, funding, and leadership that results in unique STEM education opportunities for San Diego students. Thousands of students and educators have benefited from programs at the USS Midway and we look forward to continuing our joint mission to provide exciting and rewarding learning experiences for local students.”
RADM John “Mac” McLaughlin, USN (Ret.)
During his acceptance speech on behalf of the USS Midway Museum, RADM John “Mac” McLaughlin, USN (Ret.), President & CEO of the Midway stated, “Early on when the Midway first started, we were introduced to the Classroom of the Future and we immediately began a partnership because we could see what the Classroom of the Future Foundation was building, which were effective education programs for young people into the future. And, we knew that an old relic like the Midway needed to adopt new ways. So, our education program has been built in parallel effort with the CFF. We’re grateful for all of the help we’ve received and we’re very, very honored to be the very first to receive this prestigious business award.”
Congratulations to the USS Midway Museum as our inaugural winner of the “Business Champion of the Year” award in 2020!