We are honored to welcome you as we celebrate our 48th anniversary with an evening centered on Honoring Legacies—the families, cultures, and community leaders whose stories continue to shape and strengthen our work. Join us at the Museum of Flight on Saturday, May 2nd, 2026 for a vibrant night of connection and celebration. We'll raise critical funds for early learning, honor our Dream Awardees, and have an unforgettable night!
Event Schedule
6:00pm - Check-In | Silent Auction Bidding | Live Auction Preview | Mahjong Game
7:30pm - Program | Live Auction
9:30pm - Event Concludes
Theme
Come dressed in the attire that best represents who you are. Express yourself through your clothing and honor your own legacy!
The Dream Award
The Dream Award was established to acknowledge the exceptional work of individuals and organizations whose strong commitment to children has resulted in (1) increased access to early education for children and families and (2) increased internal resources that allow Denise Louie to serve and expand its programmatic mission and goals.
Uwajimaya
Founded in 1928 by Fujimatsu Morguchi, Uwajimaya has grown from a small family business into one of the Pacific Northwest’s most beloved Asian grocery stores. Rooted in the heart of Seattle’s Chinatown–International District, the company has spent nearly a century uplifting immigrant communities, celebrating Asian heritage, and fostering cross‑cultural connection through food, storytelling, and community investment.
Uwajimaya’s commitment to strengthening families and expanding opportunity has made them an invaluable partner to DLEC. For many years, they have served as a dedicated auction sponsor, provided generous in‑kind donations—from gift cards to cultural merchandise—and welcomed DLEC families and staff to their annual Natsu Matsuri festival. CEO Denise Moriguchi has also played a pivotal leadership role as a long‑time auction chair and former board member, lending her expertise, heart, and vision to help sustain and grow our mission.
Their continuous support ensures that immigrant and refugee children have access to joyful, culturally responsive early learning, and that families feel seen, celebrated, and supported. Together, we are strengthening a community where every child is empowered to reach new heights.
Auction Chairs - Jennie Cochran-Chinn and Sinan Li
Jennie
has been serving on our Board of Directors since 2021. She has been an instrumental volunteer in our Development efforts and has been our Auction Chair since 2021. Her support has led to the success of Denise
Louie's virtual and in-person auctions. We are excited to have her return as our 2026 Auction Chair!
"The
brain is a muscle, and just like any muscle it is important to stretch
and build it. This is what early learning does - it sets the foundation
for learning for the rest of a child's life. It's fundamental for
every child to have access to multicultural early learning that allows
them to build that necessary foundation to be successful in life. No
other organization does this better than Denise Louie Education
Center." - Jennie Cochran-Chinn
As the owner of Riversouth Reach and the managing partner of RM Kitchen and Flooring, Sinan Li brings a decade of expertise in supply chain management. Deeply committed to creating opportunities for young learners, Sinan has been involved with Denise Louie Education Center for over five years. She began as a Development volunteer, supporting our former auctions and fundraising efforts, and now serves on our Board as the Vice President.
Auctioneer - Gee Scott
Gee Scott is co-host of “The Gee & Ursula Show” on KIRO Radio 97.3 FM and a gameday host for the Seattle Seahawks. Gee is a high-energy speaker and auctioneer for today’s audiences. Gee built a career infusing personal experiences, innovation, and infectious energy across many industries. Gee's love and passion for giving back has resulted in supporting organizations like the Denise Louie Education Center to support the meaningful, important, and life-changing work you do.
Photography Disclaimer
Photos and videos may be recorded at this event. Please be aware that by attending this event, you grant permission to use your voice, name, and/or likeness, without compensation, in these photos and videos, which may be utilized for promotional, archival, or educational purposes.
