One of the best parts of working in the nonprofit field is the people you meet and the partnerships you build. We were reminded of that last week at our 2nd Annual Book Tasting event, where we gathered with so many UTR friends and partners.

Sponsored by longtime partner AUSA and hosted at their headquarters, the Book Tasting is an opportunity to celebrate our work connecting military families through shared storytime, introduce the 2026 Book for the Military Child, and highlight the meaningful work happening across the field. The event brings together organizations and individuals who care deeply about military families, reading and literacy, and working collaboratively to make a greater impact on those we serve.

We were honored to hear remarks from AUSA President & CEO General Robert Brooks Brown, USA (Ret.), who shared his enthusiasm for UTR’s mission. He was followed by AUSA Family Readiness Director and UTR Board Member Holly Dailey, a tremendous advocate and supporter of our work. Dr. Sally Ann Zoll, Executive Chairman of UTR’s Board, and UTR CEO Carrie Valentine Fuller closed out the program with words of gratitude and excitement for the future.

We were grateful for the strong turnout and for everyone who took the time to join us. Several notable guests included:

  • Mrs. Kim Allan, spouse of the Vice Commandant of the Coast Guard
  • UTR Lead Trustee Michael P. Barbero, Colonel, U.S. Army (Ret.) and his wife, Vicki
  • Mrs. Shannon Nordhaus, spouse of the Chief of the National Guard Bureau
  • Mrs. Teresa Todd, spouse of the Chief of Navy Chaplains
  • Dr. Doniel Wolfe, spouse of the Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force

 

Guests enjoyed finger foods with fun, book-themed tie-ins that brought smiles and laughter to the room. (Some were a bit tongue-in-cheek — just ask Chicken Little!) Conversations sparked new ideas, strengthened relationships, and planted seeds for future collaboration. We can’t wait to see what grows before the next Book Tasting, already scheduled for March 31, 2027.

We’re also sending a big thank you to the partner organizations in attendance:

  • Blue Star Families
  • Elizabeth Dole Foundation
  • First Book
  • Fisher House Foundation
  • Hope For The Warriors
  • Military Child Education Coalition
  • Military Homeschoolers Association
  • National Military Family Association
  • Military Spouse Advocacy Network
  • Reach Out and Read
  • TAPS
  • USO

As we reflect on the day, we feel proud of all we have accomplished as an organization and deeply grateful for the partnerships we continue to build. We are energized for the year ahead and excited to see the meaningful work and collaboration that will grow from the connections made in that room.