This year’s Breakfast of Champions marks Breakthrough of Greater Philadelphia’s 30th anniversary. For the first time, Breakthrough is serving students from 5th through 12th grade, providing 8 years of tuition-free academic enrichment, mentorship, and leadership opportunities. Together with our Scholars, Teaching Fellows, partners, and supporters, we’re building a stronger, more equitable future for education in Philadelphia.

Program Schedule
Event Date: Thursday, October 16, 2025
Location: Philadelphia Cricket Club, Saint Martin's Clubhouse, 415 W Willow Grove Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19118
Attire: Business Casual

8:00 AM – Guest Arrival, Breakfast Served
8:40 AM – Emcee Welcome
Marcella Baietto, CBS Philadelphia
8:45 AM – Opening Remarks
Michelle Palmer, Executive Director, Breakthrough of Greater Philadelphia
8:50 AM – Remarks from the City
Sharon Ward, Deputy Chief Education Officer, City of Philadelphia
8:55 AM – Partner Reflection
Page Fahrig-Pendse, Associate Head of School, Germantown Friends School
8:59 AM – Teaching Fellow Spotlight
Kalea Albanese, Breakthrough Teaching Fellow
9:04 AM – Scholar Story
Leruo Edge, Breakthrough Scholar
9:09 AM – Video Presentation
Breakthrough 8-Year Journey
9:13 AM – Educator Story
Najah Spruill, Summer Instructional Coach and Breakthrough Alumna
9:18 AM – Parent Voice
Kiersten Tarlton-Walsh, Breakthrough Parent
9:23 AM – Advisory Board Reflection and Giving Moment
Jane Rosenberg, Breakthrough Advisory Board
9:30 AM – Closing Remarks
Michelle Palmer, Executive Director
9:35–9:45 AM – Networking and Breakfast Continues

Take Action
Make a Gift: Support 8 years of student growth and potential.
Bring a Friend: This event is about community; share your invite.
Stay Involved: Join our Donor Circle or Volunteer Network.

Breakfast Committee
Amy Branch, Eugenie Flaherty, Marnie Kerr, and Susan Fleming

Contact Us
Email: Kanchan Rai, krai@breakthroughphilly.org
Phone: 229-564-6720

The 30th Anniversary Breakfast of Champions | October 16, 2025