Bright Minds Foundation, the education foundation of the Howard County Public School System (HCPSS), has announced that it will recognize four individuals and one business at its upcoming Bright Futures Reception on Wednesday, June 11, 2025 in Columbia, Maryland.
Greg and Roberta Kahlert will receive the Foundation’s Philanthropists of the Year award for their commitment and contributions to Howard County public schools students and educators. The Kahlerts have established themselves as prominent philanthropists in Maryland and Utah through The Kahlert Foundation, which Greg has led since retiring as Vice President from Evapco in 2011. The Foundation, established by Greg’s father in 1991, provides millions of dollars in support to nonprofits, making it one of the largest private foundations in both states. With education as a core focus area, the Kahlerts have made significant educational contributions in Howard County, including over $3.4 million to Howard Community College to support scholarships, programs, and capital projects, including the newly opened Kahlert Foundation Complex. Their philanthropy extends beyond financial support, as Greg personally visits and engages with the organizations they fund, ensuring lasting impact. Recognized as Maryland’s Outstanding Foundation in 2017, the Kahlert Foundation represents a family commitment to philanthropy that includes their children, Heather and Scott, carrying forward a powerful legacy of community service.
In addition to the Philanthropist of the Year award, Bright Minds Foundation will also honor Ian Kennedy with the Outstanding Alumni Award; Educational Systems Federal Credit Union with the Business Partner of the Year Award; and Lisa Terry with the Outstanding Volunteer Award.
Ian Kennedy attended Howard County public schools, is a graduate of Hammond High School, and is now Executive Director of the Merriweather Arts and Culture Center, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the preservation and elevation of Merriweather Post Pavilion’s cultural legacy while nurturing a thriving artistic, cultural, community, and educational ecosystem in the heart of Downtown Columbia, Maryland.
Educational Systems Federal Credit Union and its team members have been active supporters of HCPSS students, educators, and schools. In addition to providing significant monetary support each year, Educational Systems also encourages employees to donate their time and talents to schools.
Lisa Terry has served on the Board of Directors of the Bright Minds Foundation for eight years, including three impactful years as Board Chair. Under her leadership, the Foundation has experienced significant growth in its capacity, visibility, and community impact, advancing initiatives that promote equity, innovation, and access to education for all students. Lisa also serves as the Manager of the Office of Veterans and Military Families for the Howard County Government.
The Bright Futures Reception will be a unique networking event in the Harkins Building at 10490 Little Patuxent Parkway in Columbia, MD from 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. on Wednesday, June 11, 2025. This event will be catered by Cured 18th & 21st and will feature a gourmet tasting experience with appetizers and signature crafted cocktails from the Cured menu.
Guests will hear from and meet officials from HCPSS, including HCPSS Superintendent Bill Barnes. Guests will also be provided with an opportunity to bid on unique auction items and be entertained by student performers.
Tickets and sponsorships are available at brightmindsfoundation.org/brightfutures or by contacting the Executive Director of Bright Minds Foundation, Jennifer Van Kirk, at jennifer@brightmindsfoundation.org. Tickets are $125/each and sponsorships range from $500 – $10,000.
About Bright Minds Foundation
Bright Minds Foundation is the Howard County public schools education foundation. We work to ensure each child in Howard County has access to the education, resources, and opportunities they need to succeed at school and in life. We do this by bringing together community support for programs and initiatives that increase education access, equity, and innovation. Bright Minds programs respond to the urgent and ongoing needs of children in four areas: early literacy, resources that remove barriers to learning, college scholarships, and teacher grants and support.
