The Exemplary Service Award honors individuals who have demonstrated exceptional service and volunteerism to AESA and its programs. Selected by the AESA Executive Council, this prestigious award recognizes those who have shown extensive leadership in advancing educational service agencies (ESAs) at the regional, state, or national level. Nominees for this award must exemplify a strong commitment to AESA and demonstrate actions that go above and beyond their regular job expectations.
Criteria for the Award
- Individuals of strong character.
- Demonstrates a "people first" attitude through their actions.
- Compassionate collaborators who use foresight in their service.
- Proven to have exercised moral authority in their leadership.
2026 Recipient
Mark Klaisner, Executive Director, West 40 ISC 2 (IL)
This award is named in honor of Peter C. Young, a charter member of AESA, a founding member of the AESA Foundation, and AESA's Chief Financial Officer for fourteen years. His dedicated service and leadership have left a lasting legacy in advancing the mission of AESA.