The only organization dedicated solely to helping state boards advance equity and excellence in public education.

Nominations Open: NASBE’s 2026 Awards and Board of Directors


At our Annual Meeting in Baltimore, Maryland (October 26–28, 2026), the Delegate Assembly will meet to choose new NASBE leadership. Also, NASBE’s annual awards will be presented. We have launched the processes to receive recommendations for the board officer elections and nominations for NASBE 2026 awards. The deadline for submitting NASBE award nominations and recommending officers to the NASBE board of directors is May 18, 2026. Please contact Paolo DeMaria with questions about board recommendations and award nominations.

 

NASBE Board of Directors 2026-27 Positions

Recommendations are now being accepted for the 2026-27 NASBE Board of Directors. Members are invited to submit nominations for candidates for the positions of chair-elect and directors for the central and western areas. Individuals elected to these positions will take office at the close of the Annual Business Meeting in October 2026. If you wish to recommend someone for these important offices, please refer to the process, criteria, and forms here. Recommendations from a state requires state board action, so please plan ahead.

 

NASBE 2026 Awards

Each year, the National Association of State Boards of Education (NASBE) honors distinguished leaders for their significant contributions to improving education for all children. Up to three “Distinguished Service” awards are presented to state board members from across the country in recognition of their exceptional contributions to education. One additional distinguished service award is given to a student board member or a member of a board’s student advisory council.

The “David A. Kysilko Award” is presented to an individual who is not a state board member but has made a significant contribution to the work of a state board of education or to the efforts of NASBE.

Please note that the “Policy Leader of the Year” and “Friend of Education” awards are no longer awarded annually. These awards are now given at the discretion of the Board of Directors.

The Awards Committee values a diverse pool of outstanding candidates when making their recommendations. We encourage all NASBE member states to nominate at least one individual in each award category. Simply being nominated is a great honor for those recognized. To learn more about the NASBE awards and the nomination process, click here.






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