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Welcome, Emily!
Worthington Education Foundation Appoints New Executive Director
Worthington Education Foundation (WEF) announces the appointment of Emily Chalfant as Executive Director, effective July 20, 2026. In this role, Chalfant will lead the foundation as it advances its mission to support innovative resources and experiences to enrich the education of every student in Worthington Schools.
Chalfant brings more than a decade of nonprofit leadership experience in project management, community engagement, and stakeholder relations. Most recently, she served as Program Director for Buddy Box Connection, where she led the organization's weekend food program serving food insecure children throughout Franklin County. A longtime Worthington resident and parent of two students in the district, Chalfant has been an active volunteer and leader in the community for more than 15 years through the PTA, Worthington Schools, and numerous local organizations.
"We are thrilled to welcome Emily to our leadership team," said Jenny Fuerst, president of the WEF Board of Directors. "Worthington is experiencing tremendous momentum, with exciting growth and investment happening throughout our community. The WEF is committed to matching that energy by helping our educators turn innovative ideas into meaningful opportunities for students. Emily is the ideal person to lead us into this next chapter. She is a passionate advocate for public education, deeply connected to our community, and brings the nonprofit leadership experience needed to help us expand our impact."
Chalfant said she is excited to build on the foundation's recent progress. "I am honored to join the Worthington Education Foundation at such an exciting time," she said. "The board has laid an incredible foundation for growth, and I look forward to partnering with them to expand opportunities for our students, strengthen community support for our schools, and continue investing in innovative learning experiences. This role combines my love for public education with my long-standing commitment to the Worthington community."
Chalfant's appointment comes during a period of significant growth for the foundation. During the past two years, the organization has completed an ambitious strategic plan that included a comprehensive rebrand, the launch of a new website, new office space at the Worthington Education Center on Wilson Bridge Road, the hiring of its first executive director, and the addition of new board members who offer a diverse range of expertise and representation from across the district.
New branding, website, board members, and office space fuel foundation’s momentum
Congratulations to Our 2025 Grant Recipients!
Thank you to all the Worthington Schools educators who submitted a grant application last year. We were excited to have received 21 applications across 13 schools. Our committee reviewed and scored all eligible applications and announced the winners in November 2025. Recipients received their checks totaling over $25,000 at a December Board of Education meeting, and they were featured at our annual fundraiser.
Stay tuned for info about our upcoming 2026 Grant Cycle!
Thank you, volunteer mentors!
Two years ago, the WEF piloted the Professional Day program at Kilbourne Middle School to give 8th graders the important practice of professional verbal and nonverbal communication: shaking hands, making eye contact, talking professionally about their accomplishments and goals, etc. The program was such a success that we expanded it last year to two additional middle schools. Thank you to everyone who participated! We’ll be back in spring 2027 to do it again.
WEF Rulz 2026 Gala!
A huge THANK YOU to everyone who joined us for our ‘90s-themed gala! From the throwback looks and nostalgic vibes to the laughter, dancing, and incredible generosity—you made the evening unforgettable.
Most importantly, your support helps make our mission possible and our impact GREAT! We are so thankful for every attendee, donor, sponsor, volunteer, and supporter who helped make this event such a success.
Thank you for helping us turn ‘90s nostalgia into a night that made a real difference!
Where are they now?
A 2019 grant from the WEF was the seed money Colonial Hills Elementary School needed to get its Outdoor Learning Space project off the ground. The WEF’s grant gave the program credibility to secure additional funding to create a unique structure for generations of Cougars to come. The success of the space was the inspiration for all 11 elementary schools to later get their own outdoor classrooms when government funds became available during the pandemic.
Join us in supporting the growth of Worthington students.
There are so many ways to get involved.
Attend an Event
You won’t want to miss our annual gala every winter or our smaller gatherings throughout the year.
Join the Team
We always welcome volunteers to help bring our events and programs to life.
Make a Gift
We accept donations of any size at any time to support our work to fuel future-forward learning in Worthington.
Partner with the WEF
The WEF is always looking for sponsorship partners who share our vision of boosting public education.
Thank you to our generous sponsors!
