Celebration of School Leaders

ESSAA held its Celebration of School Leadership Annual Gala and Awards Ceremony on April 17, 2026 in Pearl River, NY.  

NYSED Commissioner Dr. Betty Rosa served as the keynote speaker and joined ESSAA President Carol Conklin-Spillane and ESSAA Executive Director Michael Starvaggi in presenting the 2026 Celebration of School Leadership awards.  

Many congratulations to the following award recipients for your outstanding leadership: 

To view our program, click here

  • Lydia Luxama Adegbola, City School District of New Rochelle High School English Department Chair
    • Equity and Inclusion Leadership Award-  "Through her commitment to culturally responsive literacy and student empowerment, Lydia exemplifies the transformative power of equity-driven leadership in education.
  • Russell J. Buckley, Lockport SCD Director of Strategic Initiatives, Community Partners and Special Projects
    • Community Partnership Award- "Russ' leadership demonstrates how strong partnerships between schools and communities create lasting opportunities for students and families."
  • Giorgianna Diopoulos-Grogan, Warwick Valley CSD High School Principal
    • Visionary Leadership Award- "Through thoughtful leadership and a commitment to collaboration, Georgianna contines to inspire a shared vision of excellence for students, educators, and the entire school community."
  • David Ward Harrington, Corning-Painted Post Area School District High School Assistant Principal
    • ESSAA Impact Award-"David's steady leadership and deep commitment to student success embody the lasting impact that thoughtful and dedicated administrators bring to their school communities."
  • Rebecca Jones, Mount Vernon CSD, Lincoln Elementary School Principal
    • Legacy of Leadership Award-"Rebecca leaves an enduring legacy of compassion, mentorship and unwavering dedication to the students, educators, and communities she has served.
  • Daniel J. Larkin - Sleepy Hollow High School Assistant Principal.
    • Innovation in Education Award- "Dan's innovation leadership demonstrates how thoughtful use of technology and data can transform systems and strengthen teaching and learning."
  • Ashley Pace, Enlarged City School District of Middletown, High School Dean 
    • Student-Centered Champion Award- "Ashley exemplifies the power of student-centered leadership, ensuring that every learner is supported, respected, and empowered to succeed."
  • Rachel Stead, Albany City SD Principal - Newcomer Program at Albany Academy
    • Equity and Inclusion Leadership Award- "Rachel's visionary work affirms that inclusive schools where language, culture, and identity are valued are creating pathways for every student to thrive."
  • Dr. Dionne Wynn, Roosevelt UFSD Director of Pupil Personnel Services
    • Equity and Inclusion Leadership Award- "Through tireless advocacy and innovative programming, Dr. Dionne Wynn continues to expand opportunity and ensure that every student has a pathway to success."
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