New Special Education Leader Award

MASE is committed to mentoring, encouraging and recognizing new leaders in the field of special education. This award is given annually to a new leader who exhibits the leadership excellence required to be effective in challenging times. These skills include: a willingness to risk, an ability to collaborate, skills in listening and communicating, and a broad understanding of the educational system. Further, this award is given to a new leader who has demonstrated passion and commitment to the MASE mission of shaping policies and practices which impact the quality of education for students with disabilities.

Nomination

1. Nominations are made through a process determined by the MASE Nominating Committee.
2. Candidates may be self-nominated or nominated by someone else.
3. Nominations must be made in writing by completing the nomination materials, and must be received by the nomination due date.
4. Nominee must demonstrate the attributes of leadership and involvement in MASE and other educational organizations.
5. Nominee must be a MASE active or associate member.
6. Nominee must have five years or less experience as a director of record or as a special education administrator.
7. Nominees who have five or more years of experience as a special education administrator but are new to the role of director of record, also may be nominated within their first five years of that role.
8. Nominations may be accompanied by a maximum of three letters of support.

Selection

1. The Nominations Committee reviews the nomination form, and any letters of support.
2. The recipient is selected by February 1.
3. The recipient is notified prior to the MASE Spring Conference.

Award Presentation

1. The award is presented annually at the MASE annual Spring Conference.
2. The recipient receives a smaller plaque.
3. A news release is distributed to pertinent media in the recipient's coverage area.

Recipient History

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