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.
2026 Recipient
Cliff Carmody, Executive Director, SWWC Service Cooperative (MN)
For more than 27 years, Cliff Carmody has championed collaboration and innovation to expand what’s possible for schools and students. His leadership at SWWC has strengthened specialized student services, expanded technology and cybersecurity supports, developed new educator workforce pathways, and created partnerships that help rural districts accomplish more together. His influence extends across Minnesota and nationally through his longtime leadership and service to the ESA community.
This award is given 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.