Awards
CONGRATULATIONSTO OUR 2025 AWARD WINNERS!
Honoring Visionary Leaders and Districts
The Innovation Project’s awards for educational excellence shine a spotlight on the exceptional public school educators and leaders who are driving innovation and transformation in North Carolina.
The recipients of these awards represent the pinnacle of leadership and innovation in North Carolina’s education landscape. Their unwavering commitment to student success and transformative change serves as a beacon of inspiration for all of us.
Dr. Sharon L. Contreras, CEO
Ignite Award:Dr. Aaron Woody and Asheboro City Schools
The Ignite Award honors a superintendent and district for inspiring the reimagining of teaching and learning within their community. They exhibit creativity and tenacity in implementing bold ideas.
Ignite Award:Dr. Kelly Withers and Rowan-Salisbury School System
The Ignite Award honors a superintendent and district for inspiring the reimagining of teaching and learning within their community. They exhibit creativity and tenacity in implementing bold ideas.
Aspire Award:Dr. Nakia Hardy and Lexington City Schools
The Aspire Award honors a first year superintendent who demonstrates a great sense of urgency, early success, and promising leadership in navigating complex change.
Catalyst Award:Dr. Andrew Bryan and Edgecombe County Schools
The Catalyst Award celebrates a superintendent and district for courageously leveraging TIP initiatives to drive impactful change and inspire transformation throughout their district.
Transcend Award:Dr. Nyah Hamlet, Superintendent of Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools
Honoring a “leader among leaders,” the Transcend Award recognizes individuals whose vision, character and outstanding track record distinguish them among their peers.
Vanguard Award:Transfr
The Vanguard Award recognizes an individual or organization that is pioneering new ideas, supporting educational change, and collaborating with TIP districts to reimagine education.
