March 5, 2026
NCEA Honors Excellence, Leadership, and Lifelong Dedication in Catholic Education
Educators, leaders, and organizations that embody the mission of Catholic education will be celebrated at NCEA 2026 Convention & Expo.
Arlington, VA — The National Catholic Educational Association (NCEA) proudly announces the recipients of its distinguished Lead. Learn. Proclaim. Awards, President’s Awards, and Lifetime Commitment to Catholic Education Awards, recognizing extraordinary contributions to Catholic education across the nation by challenging assumptions, pursuing innovation, and creating lasting impact.
“In Catholic education, we are called not only to teach, but to witness,” said Dr. Steven F. Cheeseman, NCEA President/CEO. “These award recipients inspire us through their leadership, their commitment to forming young people in faith and knowledge, and their enduring dedication to the mission of our schools. We proudly celebrate their extraordinary contributions.”
The Lead. Learn. Proclaim. Awards honor individuals who exemplify innovative leadership, commitment to professional growth, and a deep dedication to proclaiming the gospel through Catholic education. These honorees demonstrate a tireless pursuit of excellence while nurturing vibrant, faith-centered school communities.
The NCEA President’s Awards recognize outstanding service and significant impact on Catholic education at the local, diocesan, or national level. Recipients are leaders whose vision and commitment have strengthened schools and advanced the mission of Catholic education in meaningful and lasting ways.
The NCEA Lifetime Commitment to Catholic Education Awards pay tribute to individuals whose careers reflect decades of devoted service to Catholic schools and communities. These honorees have shaped generations of students and educators, leaving a legacy of faith, integrity, and educational excellence.
Award recipients will be recognized during a special celebration on April 6 at NCEA 2026 Convention & Expo in Minneapolis, MN, where Catholic school educators and leaders from across the country gather to share best practices, strengthen professional networks, and renew their commitment to the Church’s ministry.
Meet the honorees from communities across the country and explore their remarkable dedication and contributions to Catholic schools here.
For more information, visit www.NCEA.org and connect with NCEA on YouTube, LinkedIn, Facebook and X.
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In service of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, NCEA strengthens Catholic school communities by convening all stakeholders and providing professional development, data, public policy and resources to support faith and intellectual formation.