Crystal Sanford-Brown Wins Michigan AEYC Lifetime Achievement Award

The purpose of this award is to recognize and honor the life-long commitment of Betty Garlick, the first Michigan AEYC President, to children and families. Betty Garlick was a pioneer in the field of early childhood education.

Recipients of this award have devoted a large part of their lives to working on behalf of Michigan’s children and families, and are at the end of their career or within a year of retirement. Further, individuals considered for this award have made exceptional contributions to the early childhood profession, locally and statewide. They have also been involved in professional activities beyond their paid position.

“Thank you to everyone that nominated me for this prestigious award. I share this award as a salute and honor for the leadership and mentors who were before me, who broke glass ceilings and paved paths, allowing future generations to utilize their skills for a foundation, as we built upon their legacies,” shared Sanford-Brown.

Crystal's unwavering dedication to the education of children in Michigan is truly exceptional, and this recognition is well-deserved. She will be honored during the Annual Michigan AEYC (miaeyc.org) Early Childhood Conference, April 13-15, 2025, in Grand Rapids, MI.