At Bright Horizons, celebrating our people is at the heart of who we are. Each year, our annual Awards of Excellence (AOE) recognize the extraordinary contributions of our employees—those who go above and beyond to make a lasting impact on children, families, and each other.

What makes the AOE so meaningful is the overwhelming support behind it.

Every year, we receive an average of 23,000 nominations—submitted by employees, leaders, and families who’ve experienced the care and excellence of our teams firsthand. These nominations reflect the deep appreciation and admiration felt across our community.

This year, we proudly honored 476 AOE winners across three unforgettable celebrations—in Massachusetts, Colorado, and virtually—that brought together honorees from across the country.

These moments were filled with joy, gratitude, and powerful stories of dedication and heart.

Our award categories highlight the many ways our employees shine:

Rising Star Award
Horizons of Excellence Award
Growth Award
Growing Our People Award
Bright Way to Work Award
HEART Award
Community Service Award
Weaving the Tapestry Award
Signature Service Award
Above and Beyond Award
Distinguished Leadership Award
Excellence in Teamwork Award

Each award represents a unique aspect of our culture—from leadership and innovation to compassion and collaboration. Together, they tell the story of a workplace where excellence is nurtured, recognized, and celebrated. The AOE is more than an annual tradition—it’s a reflection of our commitment to our people. It’s how we show that careers at Bright Horizons are built on support, growth, and recognition. Whether you're just beginning your journey or have been with us for years, your contributions matter.

To our 2025 AOE winners: thank you for inspiring us. And to everyone who makes Bright Horizons a place where excellence thrives—your story could be next.

Ready to be celebrated for the work you love? Explore careers at Bright Horizons and discover how you can grow, thrive, and be rewarded.