Lightbridge Academy's Grovenstein named IFA Franchisee of the Year

The International Franchise Association, the world’s largest and oldest organization dedicated to franchising, Wednesday announced it will honor Rebecca Grovenstein of Lightbridge Academy as a 2026 Franchisee of the Year. Grovenstein will be recognized officially during the IFA’s upcoming Advocacy Summit, which will take place in Washington, D.C. on September 14-16.

Grovenstein is a multi-unit franchisee for Lightbridge Academy, operating two childcare centers in the Apex and Holly Springs, North Carolina markets. The team at Lightbridge Academy nominated her for the annual award for her centers’ exemplary work with both young learners and their families.

Franchisee of the Year recognizes outstanding franchise owners who are doing truly special work in their communities, building great teams, and serving as strong resources or mentors to other operators in the system.

“Being named Franchisee of the Year is a reflection of the kind of franchisee Rebecca Grovenstein has been from day one,” said Gigi Schweikert, Chief Executive Officer of Lightbridge Academy. “She is someone who understands that running a child care center requires a commitment to the families and communities her locations serve. Multi-unit ownership at this level requires exceptional operational discipline, but what truly sets Rebecca apart is the consistency of education and care that families experience across both locations every single day.

This recognition is well-earned, and exactly the standard of excellence we hope every franchisee in our system aspires to meet.”

The IFA will formally present Grovenstein with her Franchisee of the Year award at a luncheon on September 15, with further recognition occurring throughout the multi-day summit.