Our Annual Awards and Friends of Education Dinner will be held April 30, 2026 at Duo at the Dunes in Albany, NY.

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Great schools require the coordinated efforts of dedicated individuals serving in diverse roles to provide opportunities for students. CASDA's Annual Capital Region Education Awards recognize excellence in all corners of the school community. The list of awards winners that will be celebrated on April 30, 2026 can be found below:

 

Nelsin J. Armlin Award
Joleen Zheng, MS in Special Education and Literacy II
 

NYSPHSAA, Section 2 Athletic Director of the Year Award

Len Kies, Athletic Director, Bethlehem CSD

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CDCA Counselor of the Year Award

Patricia Poupore, Questar III

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Greater Capital Region Principals Center Board, Principal of the Year Award​​

Kelly Sloan, St. Madeleine Sophie School, Diocese of Albany

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Excellence in District Administrative Leadership Award​​​​

Kirsten DeMento, Director of Accountability & Educational Programs, Watervliet CSD

Jodi Mazzeo, Director of Behavioral Health, Green Island UFSD

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Excellence in School Board Service​​

Mary Nardolillo, North Colonie CSD

Doris Warner, Margaretville CSD

Bernice Rivera, Schenectady CSD

Sue Sammons, Oppenheim-Ephratah-St. Johnsville CSD

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NSDC Cooperative Leadership Award​

Antonio Abitabile, Superintendent, Lansingburgh CSD