Our Mission is to invest in an equitable and empowered future for Champaign Urbana by strengthening the community’s commitment to our public schools, teachers, and students.

 

Advocates, Allies & Ambassadors for Champaign Unit 4 & Urbana USD 116 schools.

2026 DISTINGUISHED ALUMNUS HONOREE Andrew Whitford – Class of 1996 Andrew “Andy” Whitford, Centennial High School Class of 1996, has built an extraordinary career marked by service, scholarship, and global leadership. A West Point graduate and U.S. Army officer for more than two decades, Andy completed two tours in Iraq and has since served in key diplomatic and educational roles with the United Nations, NATO partners, and the British Army. A respected military historian, Andy earned both a Master’s degree and Ph.D. from Columbia University and has been published widely on military and political history. His excellence in research and writing earned him the General Omar Bradley Fellowship in Military History. Among his numerous leadership positions, Andy has taught courses in international, military, Middle East and religious history at West Point and is currently an Assistant Professor for the Department of Distance Education at the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College in Leavenworth, Kansas. At home, he is a dedicated husband, father, Eagle Scout, and community volunteer.
Presidents' Day was originally established in 1885 to commemorate George Washington's February 22 birthday, but the holiday now informally includes Abraham Lincoln and all U.S. leaders, while officially remaining "Washington's Birthday."
2026 Distinguished Alumnae Honoree Ayala Donchin – Class of 1987 Ayala Donchin, Urbana High School Class of 1987, has turned a childhood love of baking into a celebrated culinary career that blends creativity, community, and heart. As the founder and executive chef of Evelyn’s Kitchen in East Harlem, Ayala has built a beloved café and catering company known for its inventive, elevated comfort food and its mission-driven approach. Named in honor of her godmother and mentor, Evelyn, the business reflects Ayala’s deep values: family, integrity, resilience, and service. Since launching Evelyn’s Kitchen in 2009, Ayala has earned national recognition for her craft and leadership. She has appeared as a judge on Beat Bobby Flay, been featured in New York Magazine, and gained a devoted following for her signature “Pudgies,” showcased on QVC. Her work has been highlighted by numerous outlets celebrating both her culinary excellence and her commitment to community empowerment. Beyond her success as an entrepreneur, Ayala serves as a role model for young people—demonstrating that meaningful work is built through perseverance, purpose, and staying true to one’s roots. She shows aspiring entrepreneurs that creativity can fuel both livelihood and positive impact, and that honoring one’s community is as important as professional achievement.
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CU Schools Foundation is an independent, non-profit organization designed to enhance the quality of education in Champaign-Urbana through community support of the public schools. The Champaign Urbana Schools Foundation is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization; our EIN # is 37-1273798