NHSA Recognizes Senator Roger Marshall (R-KS) as Congressional Champion for Children and Families

PROMISE Award presented during Head Start Hill event
January 28, 2026

WASHINGTON, D.C. – On January 28, 2026, the National Head Start Association (NHSA) honored Senator Roger Marshall (R-KS) with the 2026 Protecting Our Most Important Students Early (PROMISE) Award in recognition of his steadfast leadership and support of Head Start programs and the families they serve.

The PROMISE Award honors members of Congress who have demonstrated a sustained commitment to protecting and strengthening Head Start and ensuring access to comprehensive early learning opportunities nationwide. A longtime supporter of Head Start, Senator Marshall’s leadership on early childhood issues reflects his dedication to investing in young children and the systems that support their development. Just one demonstration of his commitment in the past year was taking time to visit the Ottawa County Head Start program, where he met with children, families, and staff to learn firsthand about the program’s impact in the community.

“Strong early learning programs depend on strong champions in Congress,” said NHSA Executive Director Yasmina Vinci. “Senator Marshall understands that Head Start is not just an education program; it is a lifeline for families and a foundation for long-term success. We thank him for standing with Head Start children, families, and staff.”

Senator Marshall received the PROMISE Award during NHSA’s annual Head Start Breakfast on the Hill, held in conjunction with the 2026 Winter Leadership Institute. The event brings together Head Start parents, alumni, staff, and advocates from across the country to meet with members of Congress and share firsthand stories about the impact of Head Start in their communities.