2023 Spring Awards Announced

February 17, 2023

Each year, MASA provides an opportunity to recognize outstanding members and colleagues who are dedicated leaders and advocates for children and Minnesota education. We are pleased to announce this year’s spring award recipients!

The 2023 Polaris Leadership Award and the Richard Green Scholar Award recipients will be announced at the MASA/MASE Spring Conference on Thursday, March 9, 2023. These two awards are presented annually at the MASA Fall Conference.

Minnesota Superintendent of the Year Award

Sponsored by ATS&R | recognized Thursday, March 9 at the MASA/MASE Spring Conference

Dr. Matthew Hillmann, Northfield Public Schools | News Release

Dr. Hillmann was one of the four finalists for AASA’s 2023 National Superintendent of the Year®.

MASA Distinguished Service Award

presented Thursday, March 9 at the MASA/MASE Spring Conference

Barb Nicol, Retired President, Barbara Nicol Public Relations | News Release

Kay E. Jacobs Memorial Award

presented Friday, March 10 at the MASA/MASE Spring Conference

Dr. Lisa Sayles-Adams, Superintendent, Eastern Carver County Schools | News Release

Outstanding Central Office Administrator Award

presented Friday, March 10 at the MASA/MASE Spring Conference

Greater Minnesota Recipient

Jamie Nord, Executive Director of the St. Croix River Education District (SCRED) | News Release

Metro Recipient

Anthony Padrnos, Executive Director of Technology for Osseo Area Schools | News Release

MASA Administrators of Excellence

presented Friday, March 10 at the MASA/MASE Spring Conference

This award honors an administrator annually from each of the nine MASA regions for their service to the association and colleagues through their active regional participation. Read the full news release here.

Region 1: Erick Enger, Superintendent, Lake City Public Schools
Region 2: Dan Anderson, Superintendent, Maple River Schools
Region 3: Todd Holthaus, Superintendent, Hills-Beaver Creek Schools
Region 4: Jeffrey Drake, Superintendent, Fergus Falls Public School District
Region 5: Lee Westrum, Superintendent, Wadena-Deer Creek Schools
Region 6: Ann-Marie Foucault, Superintendent, St. Michael-Albertville School District
Region 7: Kevin Grover, Superintendent, International Falls Schools
Region 8: Lance Bagstad, Superintendent, Park Rapids Area School District
Region 9: Astein Osei, Superintendent, St. Louis Park Public Schools

Congratulations to all of our 2023 spring award recipients!