Barbara Yates, as chair of Minnesota Governor Mark Dayton’s Early Learning Council, receives recogni- tion from Governor Dayton for providing leadership on the effort that resulted in a $45 million Early Learning Challenge Grant for the state of Minnesota. Leadership When It Matters Most Minnesota is coming together as never be- fore to focus on young children and what they need for success in school and life. When policymakers, business leaders, phi- lanthropists, and other community members are well-informed about the issues and take action, even children who are at the greatest disadvantage will step into a brighter future. Think Small’s board and staff take our tagline – leaders in early learning – very seriously and raise the bar on early childhood care and education in Minnesota and beyond. As a major nonprofit we have a strong voice, and the capacity to effect powerful change for children, families, and the early childhood workforce so that: The needs and concerns of parents and early childhood professionals are heard and addressed. Legislators have a better understanding of how policies impact families and the workforce. More children receive the care and instruction they need and are on a positive life trajectory, because they are more prepared to succeed. The results of the important work across the region – work with national implications – is acknowledged and replicated. page 4