The Vogt Family Center: A Milestone for the School of Imagination

Feb 4

February 4, 2025 - This past weekend, the School of Imagination (SOI) proudly celebrated the grand dedication of the Vogt Family Center, a remarkable milestone that will expand access to inclusive early childhood education and therapeutic services for children of all abilities.

A Legacy of Giving

The Vogt family has been an integral part of SOI for over a decade, championing the school's mission to provide high-quality, inclusive learning opportunities. Stephen Vogt, MLB All-Star and 2024 American League Manager of the Year, along with his wife Alyssa, have contributed over $400,000 through the Vogt Family Fund, ensuring that children, regardless of financial barriers, receive the support they need.

The new 225-square-foot Vogt Family Center represents the family's continued commitment, creating much-needed classroom and therapy spaces to serve the growing demand from families on SOI’s waitlist.

A Community Celebration

The dedication event was attended by an inspiring group of community leaders, elected officials, and SOI supporters, including:

Elected Officials: Representatives from the offices of U.S. Congressman Eric Swalwell, Dublin Mayor Sherry Hu, and Dublin City Councilmembers John Morada and Mike McCorriston, alongside Pleasanton Councilmember Craig Eicher.
School of Imagination Leadership & Board Members
Former Dublin Mayor Melissa Hernandez, now representing Alameda County Supervisors, who presented an official commendation honoring the Vogt family's contributions.

Impact Beyond the Classroom

During a heartfelt fireside chat, Mark Ibañez, Emmy Award-winning sports journalist, spoke with Stephen Vogt about his journey from Little League to the big leagues and his deep connection to SOI. Vogt reflected on his family's commitment to ensuring that every child, regardless of ability, has the opportunity to thrive.

From hosting Texas Hold 'Em fundraisers that raised over $200,000, to welcoming SOI students onto the field at A’s and Giants games, Vogt and his teammates have been hands-on in creating unforgettable moments for these young learners.

Looking Ahead

With the first phase of the Vogt Family Center and playground renovation complete, the next step is expanding the playground with more sensory-friendly equipment, trikes, and updated therapy spaces. SOI will continue to fundraise to support these projects, with the next major opportunity being the April 26 benefit event.

Join the Movement

SOI invites the community to get involved—whether by attending fundraising events, sponsoring programs, or exploring naming opportunities within the new center.

As Charlene Sigman, SOI Co-Founder and Program Director, aptly put it:
"This expansion represents our commitment to ensuring that every child has the support they need to be their extraordinary self.”

Thank you to Stephen and Alyssa Vogt, the Vogt Family, and the SOI community for making this vision a reality!