Overview of KASA's Leadership Awards

We invite you to nominate exceptional individuals from your school/district for one of KASA's prestigious awards. By doing so, you play a vital role in recognizing Kentucky's outstanding school administrators and support staff, who demonstrate unwavering commitment and passion for education. Our goal is to honor the finest leaders in education for the visionary and exemplary ways in which they carry out their daily responsibilities. These dedicated professionals have devoted their careers to shaping the futures of Kentucky's children, and they truly deserve our heartfelt appreciation.

Learn more about the awards below

Presented to an individual who is either retired or will retire at the close of the current school year, and has demonstrated exceptional leadership in education, bringing honor to their colleagues, the profession, and KASA.

Administrator of the Year Award | Past Recipients
Honors a distinguished building-level and district-level school administrator for their exceptional leadership, dedication, and outstanding contributions to Kentucky’s public schools, as well as their dedicated service to the association.

Office Professional Award | Past Recipients
This prestigious award honors an outstanding office professional who has made a significant impact on the success of a school or district administrative team. The recipient will be celebrated during Office Professionals Week and will receive a $500 gift in recognition of their dedication and contributions.

Fred Award | Past Recipients   
Inspired by renowned author Mark Sanborn, this prestigious award pays tribute to Fred Shea, the inspiring subject of Sanborn’s national bestseller, The Fred Factor. It recognizes individuals who embody Fred’s exceptional spirit of service, innovation, and dedication to others—making a meaningful and lasting impact on their school community.

Superintendent of the Year Award | Past Recipients
The Superintendent of the Year Award allows KASA to celebrate Kentucky’s exceptional superintendents, recognizing their unwavering dedication to public education, their advocacy for our children, and their commitment to shaping a brighter future.

William T. Nallia Award
Awarded annually to an education leader who exemplifies innovation and visionary leadership, driving transformative success and elevating learning outcomes for all children.

Telescopic Award
The Telescopic Award honors individuals whose visionary commitment drives transformative advancements in education.

Heart for Education Award
Awarded periodically to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional dedication throughout their careers in advancing and championing public education in Kentucky.

Benny Dunning Pay It Forward Student Scholarship
The Benny Dunning Pay It Forward Scholarship awards $2,500 annually to two graduating seniors from Kentucky public high schools. This scholarship supports students in financial need who plan to pursue higher education in the fall. The funds must be applied toward tuition expenses at a Kentucky college, university, technical school, or other accredited institution.