Written By Dustin Khong
Magnify Utah is built on storytelling. We believe that every story matters — and those who help students discover their own voices are some of our most powerful storytellers. We’re in awe of the educators who show up — not just in the classroom, but in life-changing ways that ripple across our communities. Whether it’s cheering students on at leadership events or lifting up cultural identity and student voice, these dedicated professionals are the heartbeat of what we do.
And we see you. Year after year, at our Multicultural Youth Leadership Summit and our Multicultural Youth Leadership Day, you arrive with bright, curious students and a spirit of encouragement that makes every event come alive. You sit in sessions, spark conversations, and walk alongside your students as they explore what it means to lead with purpose and pride.
We couldn’t do this without you—and we wouldn’t want to.
🌟 Spotlighting Two Incredible Educators
Some of the most inspiring leaders in our Magnify Utah community are those who teach, and also uplift, and create space for young people to thrive.
Ann Marie Sherman, Sherman, the Native American coordinator and refugee liaison for Alpine School District, is one of those champions. A proud Native American/American Indian Utahn, Ann Marie brings compassion and cultural wisdom into every space she enters. Her presence helps students feel grounded in who they are — and excited about where they’re going next.
Eileen Quintana, Quintana, the Indian Education program manager for Nebo School District, leads with heart and heritage. As a Native educator and passionate cultural steward, Eileen helps her students embrace their identity while reaching toward new possibilities. Whether she’s mentoring youth or shaping district-wide programs, Eileen is a shining example of what it looks like to lift as we climb.
🙌 A Community of Educators, Uplifted
Educators with First Lady Abby Cox at the Show up for Teachers Conference. Image from Showuputah.org
When we talk about showing up, we also celebrate a powerful movement happening statewide: Show Up for Educator Wellness, led by Utah’s First Lady Abby Cox.
This initiative recognizes something we at Magnify Utah deeply believe: When educators are supported, students soar.
The Show Up for Teachers Conference returns every summer and is a free, energizing event that brings together more than 2,000 Utah educators for wellness, connection, and professional growth. From massages to mindfulness sessions, from energizing keynotes to heartfelt conversations with fellow educators — it’s a chance to rest, recharge, and remember why this work matters.
First Lady Abby Cox says it best: “Before we can teach these skills to the kids, we have to help the helpers.” We couldn’t agree more.
💬 Thank You for Showing Up!
To every educator who shows up to our youth events with a smile, a clipboard, and a belief in what’s possible — thank you.
To those who attend Show Up for Teachers and take time to pour back into yourselves — thank you.
To Ann Marie, to Eileen, and to all the educators leading with love, culture, and commitment — thank you.
Your impact is felt in every laugh, every raised hand, every “I didn’t think I could, but now I know I can.” You are the reason these moments matter.
🎉 Let’s Keep Showing Up — Together
As we look ahead to another amazing year of leadership events and statewide teacher support, we invite you to continue walking with us:
- Bring your students to Magnify Utah’s Youth Leadership Events.
- Join the community of educators at the Show Up for Teachers Conference
- Celebrate one another — and yourselves — as the everyday heroes that you are.
At the Division of Multicultural Affairs, we believe in the power of connection. And we’re so lucky to be connected to you. Thank you for showing up, for standing tall, and for making our state brighter — one student, one moment, and one act of care at a time.
Check out the links below for resources:
> Utah Division of Multicultural Affairs’ Youth Leadership Events
> Ann Marie Sherman’s Magnify Utah Story
> Eileen Quintana’s Magnify Utah Story
> Show up for Teachers Conference