B.E.S.T. Leaders on Leadership Breakfast
November 10, 2026
Last week, B.E.S.T. welcomed more than 200 guests to our annual Leaders on Leadership Breakfast at The Center Club in Baltimore. The morning brought together Funders, Community Trustees, Heads of School, partners, friends of B.E.S.T., and B.E.S.T. Upper School students and Alumni to celebrate leadership, community, and the transformative impact of the Baltimore Educational Scholarship Trust.
This year’s program featured two inspiring speakers: B.E.S.T. and Oldfields School Alumna Wanda Cole-Frieman ’90 and Robert Young, President and Head of Marketing and Sales/Client Service at Brown Capital Management. Through their personal stories and reflections, both shared meaningful lessons about self-confidence, embracing opportunity, cultivating supportive relationships, and using success to make a difference in the lives of others. Their messages encouraged students to recognize their potential, take ownership of their futures, remain open to new possibilities, and understand the importance of lifting others along the way.
The morning also celebrated this year’s Stanley I. Panitz Leadership Award recipients, two outstanding B.E.S.T. Seniors (nominated in their Junior year) recognized for their academic excellence and leadership within their schools and the Baltimore community. Established in memory of B.E.S.T.’s Founding Board Chair and made possible through the generosity of his family and friends following his passing in 2012, the award honors the promise and accomplishments of our next generation of leaders. In addition, Jill Wood, B.E.S.T. Director of Finance and Operations, was acknowledged for her 25 years of service.
At its heart, the Leaders on Leadership Breakfast was a celebration of possibility, connection, and the power of community. We were reminded that success is not only measured by what we achieve, but also by the doors we open and the lives we positively impact along the way.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our Honored Speakers, funders, partners, and friends for their continued belief in our mission and commitment to our students. Together, we are expanding possibilities, cultivating future leaders, and creating opportunities for our remarkable students to thrive.
