BALTIMORE, MD—Richard Huffman, CEO of Celebree School, a prominent early childhood education provider, has been named a winner of the Entrepreneur Of The Year® 2025 Mid-Atlantic Award by Ernst & Young LLP (EY US). The prestigious award recognizes ambitious entrepreneurs who are transforming industries, impacting communities, and creating long-term value.
Huffman was selected by an independent judging panel that evaluated candidates based on their entrepreneurial spirit, purpose-driven leadership, and significant growth and impact.
“Being recognized as an Entrepreneur Of The Year in the Mid-Atlantic region is an incredible honor,” Huffman said. “What started as a single early education center has grown into a movement, one that empowers entrepreneurs, supports families, and strengthens communities. This award belongs to every team member, franchise partner, and educator who shares our vision for a better future for children.”
Huffman launched the first Celebree School in 1994 with the goal of creating a nurturing, education-focused environment for children. Today, Celebree School has expanded into a leading early childhood education franchise with locations operating or in development across 17 states. The schools are guided by Huffman’s core philosophy: “Grow People Big and Small™,” which emphasizes nurturing children, empowering educators, and supporting families.
In 2024, Huffman further expanded his mission by launching Huffman Family Brands (HFB). This platform unites and supports Celebree School, Caliday, the Huffman Family Foundation, HWG Properties, Celebree Enterprise, and Huffman’s personal brand, aiming to empower communities nationwide through shared expertise and resources.
As a regional award winner, Huffman is now eligible for consideration for the Entrepreneur Of The Year 2025 National Awards. National winners, including the overall National Award winner, will be announced in November at the Strategic Growth Forum®. The National Overall Award winner will then compete for the EY World Entrepreneur Of The Year™ Award in June 2026.
Celebree School is actively pursuing national expansion and is seeking qualified individuals for single and multi-unit franchise opportunities to bring its quality childhood education programs to more communities.
