What is the MASE New Leader Award?

The MASE New Leader Award is given annually to a new leader in special education who exhibits the leadership excellence required to be effective in challenging times. Key qualities include a willingness to risk, an ability to collaborate, skills in listening and communicating, and a broad understanding of the educational system. The award also recognizes demonstrated passion and commitment to the MASE mission of shaping policies and practices that impact the quality of education for students with disabilities.

Who is eligible for the MASE New Leader Award?

Nominees must be an active or associate member of MASE with five years or less of experience as a director of record or as a special education administrator. Nominees who have five or more years of experience as a special education administrator but are new to the role of director of record may also be nominated within their first five years in that role. Nominees must demonstrate leadership attributes and involvement in MASE and other educational organizations.

How do I nominate someone for the MASE New Leader Award?

Candidates may be self-nominated or nominated by someone else. Nominations must be submitted in writing by completing the official nomination materials and received by the nomination due date. Nominations may be accompanied by a maximum of three letters of support.

When is the MASE New Leader Award presented and what does the recipient receive?

The award is presented annually. The recipient receives a plaque and a check for $500. A news release is also distributed to pertinent media in the recipient's coverage area.

New Special Education Leader Award

Q: Who selects the MASE New Leader Award recipient?

The MASE Nominations Committee reviews all nomination forms and letters of support. The recipient is selected and notified prior to the MASE Best Practices Conference.

MASE is committed to mentoring, encouraging, and recognizing new leaders in special education. The MASE New Leader Award is given annually to a new leader who exhibits leadership excellence in challenging times — including a willingness to risk, an ability to collaborate, strong listening and communication skills, and a broad understanding of the educational system — and who has demonstrated passion and commitment to the MASE mission of shaping policies and practices that impact the quality of education for students with disabilities.

Nominations for the 2026-27 Awards are open until Dec. 31, 2026.

Make a Nomination Now!

Nomination Criteria

Who Qualifies for the Award?

Candidates may be self-nominated or nominated by someone else through a process determined by the MASE Nominating Committee.
Nominee must be an active or associate member of MASE.
Nominee must have five years or less of experience as a director of record or as a special education administrator. Nominees with five or more years as a special education administrator who are new to the role of director of record may also be nominated within their first five years in that role.
Nominee must demonstrate attributes of leadership and involvement in MASE and other educational organizations.
Nominations must be submitted in writing using the official nomination form by the nomination due date of Dec. 31, 2026, and may be accompanied by a maximum of three letters of support.

Selection Process

The Nominations Committee reviews all nomination forms and letters of support. The recipient is selected by February 1 and notified prior to the MASE Best Practices Conference.

Award Presentation

The award is presented at the annual MASE Best Practices Conference. The recipient receives a plaque and a check for $500, and a news release is distributed to media in the recipient's area.

Most Recent Recipient

2026 — Samantha Steinman

Assistant Director of Special Education, Mankato Area Public Schools

This award recognizes a new special education leader who exhibits leadership excellence, a willingness to risk, the ability to collaborate, and a demonstrated commitment to the MASE mission of improving education for students with disabilities.

Read the News Release →

Presented at the MASE Best Practices Conference

Recipient History

2026Samantha Steinman
2025Tiffany Litman
2024Niceta Thomas
2023Heidi Nistler
2022Dena Hagen
2021Scott Masten
2020Nicole Woodward
2019Amy Ernst
2018Jennifer McIntyre
2017Tim Finn
2016Dustin Hinckley
2015Dr. Heidi Hahn
2014Diane McCarron
2013Mary Clarkson
2012Tammy Stahl
2011Reggie Engebritson