Women in School Leadership Awards
The Women in School Leadership awards recognize female educators whose talent, creativity and vision are exemplary.
Two awards are presented annually at the AASA National Conference on Education.
The AASA Women in School Leadership Award program is designed to recognize the exceptional leadership of active, front-line female leaders who are making a difference in the lives of students every day.
Two awards are available:
The Superintendent Award: Awarded to any female superintendent who's been in the superintendent position for two years or more.
The Central Office/Principal Award: Awarded to any female central office or building level leader. Equivalent job titles may include: assistant superintendent, central office administrator, school based principal/assistant principal.
Each applicant is judged on the following criteria:
- Leadership for Learning: Creativity in successfully meeting the needs of students in her school or district.
- Communication: Strength in both personal and organizational communication.
- Professionalism: Constant improvement of administrative knowledge and skills, while providing motivation to others on the education team.
- Community Involvement: Active participation in local community activities and an understanding of regional, national and international issues.
Nominations:
Nominations must be completed online by September 4, 2025.
Applications:
Applications must be submitted online by October 3, 2025.
A panel of distinguished leaders in education will select two finalists in each category for the AASA Women in School Leadership Awards.
The decision will be based on the applications submitted online and supporting documents.
The judges will virtually interview the four finalists and winners will be announced at the AASA National Conference on Education.
Each award recipient will receive $1,000 and a plaque.
Each award finalist will receive complimentary registration to the AASA National Conference on Education.
- September 4, 2025: Deadline for nominations
- October 3, 2025: Deadline for applications
- November 18, 2025: Finalists are announced
- February 12-14, 2026: Winners are announced on stage at the AASA National Conference on Education
2025 Women in School Leadership Award Winners
Superintendent Category
Wendy Birhanzel, superintendent, Harrison School District 2 (Colo.)
Dr. Wendy Birhanzel is honored to be Colorado's 2023 Superintendent of the Year. Her passion is ensuring a high-quality education experience for every student and opening doors to opportunities and success.
Central Office/ Principal Category
Alicen Gaytley, Director of Teaching and Learning, Quincy School District (Wash.)
Before stepping into district leadership, Alicen was an elementary school teacher and instructional coach who earned a National Board Certification in English as a New Language, a regional Excellence Award, and served on the Washington State ASCD Board of Directors.
Frequently Asked Questions
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If you do not receive an email within one hour, please contact awards@aasa.org or 703-875-0709.
Thank You to our Women in School Leadership Awards Partner
Questions?
Contact awards@aasa.org
or call 703-875-0709