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Awards 2024

CONGRATULATIONSTO OUR 2024 AWARD WINNERS!

Honoring Visionary Leaders and Districts

The Innovation Project’s first-ever awards for educational excellence shine a spotlight on the exceptional public school educators and leaders who are driving innovation and transformation in North Carolina.

Ignite Award:
Dr. Keith Parker and Elizabeth City-Pasquotank 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.

Dr. Keith Parker and Elizabeth City-Pasquotank Schools

Aspire Award:
Dr. Crystal Hill and Charlotte-Mecklenburg 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.

Dr. Crystal Hill

Catalyst Award:
Dr. Shawn Stover and Rockingham 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.

Dr. Shawn Stover

Transcend Award:
Dr. Cindy Bennett, Superintendent of Vance County Schools

Honoring a “leader among leaders,” the Transcend Award recognizes individuals whose vision, character and outstanding track record distinguish them among their peers.

Dr. Cindy Bennett, Superintendent of Vance County Schools

Pinnacle Award:
Dr. Marvin Connelly, Jr., Superintendent, Cumberland County Schools

The Pinnacle Award recognizes a leader at a significant milestone and celebrates a lifetime of dedication and achievement in the service of students and education. Recipients have shown unwavering commitment and perseverance.

Dr. Marvin Connelly, Jr.

Vanguard Award:
Jevelyn Bonner-Reed and the Belk Foundation

The Vanguard Award recognizes an individual or organization that is pioneering new ideas, supporting educational change, and collaborating with TIP districts to reimagine education.

Jevelyn Bonner-Reed