What is the MASE Distinguished Service Award?

The MASE Distinguished Service Award is presented by Minnesota Administrators for Special Education (MASE) to recognize individuals who have made outstanding contributions to Minnesota's public education system. It is not necessarily given every year — it is presented only when a recipient of particular merit is identified.

When is the MASE Distinguished Service Award presented?

The award is presented at the annual MASE Fall Leadership Conference during a recognition ceremony.

Who is eligible to receive the MASE Distinguished Service Award?

Recipients must have a positive history or association with Minnesota public education — either directly (as a practicing administrator, teacher, or similar role) or indirectly (such as a legislator, professional organization employee, or member of the media). They must also have contributed to improving Minnesota's public education system on a statewide basis and be known for willingly going the extra mile.

How do I nominate someone for the MASE Distinguished Service Award?

Anyone may nominate a person for the MASE Distinguished Service Award using the official MASE nominating form. Nominations must be submitted by the stated nomination due date.

Who selects the MASE Distinguished Service Award recipient?

A committee of MASE past-presidents reviews nominations and selects the recipient.

What does the MASE Distinguished Service Award recipient receive?

The recipient receives an individual plaque presented at the MASE Fall Leadership Conference. A news release is also distributed to pertinent media in the recipient's coverage area.

Distinguished Service Award

MASE periodically selects individuals to receive the MASE Distinguished Service Award. The award is presented at the MASE Fall Leadership Conference. It is not necessarily given on an annual basis, but is presented when a recipient of particular merit is identified.

Nomination Criteria

Who Qualifies for the Award?

The recipient has a positive history or association with Minnesota public education—either directly (as a practicing administrator, teacher, or similar role) or indirectly (as a legislator, professional organization employee, member of the media, etc.).
The recipient has contributed to improving Minnesota's public education system on a statewide basis and is known as someone who willingly goes the extra mile.
Anyone may nominate a candidate using the MASE nominating form. Nominations must be submitted by the stated nomination due date.

Selection Process

The MASE Nominating Committee reviews all nominations and selects the recipient.

Award Presentation

The recipient receives an individual plaque at the MASE Fall Leadership Conference. A news release is distributed to media in the recipient's area.

Most Recent Recipient

2026 — Deb Henton

Retired Executive Director, MASA

Read the News Release →

Presented at the MASE Fall Leadership Conference

Recipient History

2026Deb Henton
2025Diane McCarron
2024Mick Waldspurger
2022Barbara Jo Stahl
2021Jan Ostrum
2020Sheila Merzer
2019Laura Tubbs Booth
2018John Klaber
2017Michelle Jones
2016Mia Urick
2014Lisa Backer
2013Sue Abderholden
2012Paul Ratwik
2009Mindy Greiling
2008Mark Dayton
2005Nan Records
2004Don Krukow
2002Norena Hale
2001Robert Vaadeland
2000Denny Ulmer
1999Gary Lewis