Dr. Effie H. Jones Humanitarian Award

The Dr. Effie H. Jones Humanitarian Award honors leadership in educational equity and excellence. Those recognized must be AASA members who evidence commitment to the advancement and mentorship of women and minorities in positions of leadership and/or demonstrate a commitment to address social justice issues among children, youth and adults in schools. Dr. Jones was a school administrator, teacher, counselor, organizer of the Office of Minority Affairs at AASA and a champion of women and minorities in educational leadership. Equity and opportunity were the hallmark of her life work and closing the academic, health and social gap between the children who have and those who don’t was one of the cardinal intents of her rigorous efforts to increase the numbers of women and minority school system leaders. She created both a space where minority and women educators could and be nurtured, supported, mentored, challenged and where the differing needs of children could be addressed. Because of her commitment to equity and excellence the field of school leadership is richer, more complex, and more accessible to a wide range of qualified educators and AASA’s focus on vulnerable children and youth is sharp and unrelenting.