The Excellence in Executive Leadership Award recognizes exceptional contributions in executive leadership that advance the programs and initiatives of regional Educational Service Agencies (ESAs) at regional, state, and national levels. This prestigious award is presented to individuals who have demonstrated exemplary leadership, innovative practices, and significant service to the ESA community.
Nominees for this award can include current or former ESA executives and staff members who have made lasting impacts in the following areas:
Criteria for the Award
- Advancement of the goals and philosophies of educational service agencies.
- Outstanding accomplishments and implementation of innovative practices.
- Exceptional leadership within the ESA community.
- Dedicated service to educational service agencies.
2024 Recipient
Gladys Cruz
Questar III Board of Cooperative Educational Services/NY
Dr. Gladys I. Cruz, District Superintendent and CEO of Questar III BOCES, has led with vision and dedication, transforming educational opportunities across New York State. From expanding career and technical education to supporting bilingual instruction, Dr. Cruz’s contributions reach students of all backgrounds. Her influence extends nationally as the past-president of AASA, where she championed public education. Read more here.
This award is named in honor of Justus A. Prentice, a pioneering BOCES Superintendent from New York, who worked closely with AASA to support the formation of an independent organization for ESAs. Recognized as one of the original Founding Fathers of AESA, Prentice was also the first President of AESA's Executive Council, leaving a lasting legacy of leadership and service.