Orange County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Stefan Bean has been recognized with the 2024 JA Champion Award from Junior Achievement of Orange County and the Inland Empire.
Presented at Junior Achievement’s “Rhythm of Impact” celebration at the House of Blues Anaheim on Jan. 30, the award highlights leaders who have demonstrated a strong commitment to empowering students through financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and career readiness programs.
Junior Achievement describes the honorees as the “Heart of our Community,” recognizing their leadership, volunteerism and support for initiatives that help young people prepare for the future. In its announcement, the organization thanked Bean for his dedication to education and for being an “inspirational champion” for students in Orange County and beyond.
For more than 70 years, Junior Achievement of Southern California has connected students with business and community mentors, equipping them with the skills and confidence to navigate life after school. The nonprofit reaches more than 50,000 students annually through hands-on programs designed to foster economic understanding and career success.
Bean, who was appointed county superintendent in July 2024, has been a vocal advocate for expanding career pathways for all students, including those with disabilities. These efforts are now embedded into OCDE’s 5-3-1 Strategic Plan, which prioritizes career education, emotional intelligence, AI integration, school safety and innovative funding opportunities to support student success.