There is something special about being recognized by people who truly understand the work you do.
In adult education, victories are often quiet. A student gains confidence. A teacher stays late to help someone succeed. A program creates a new partnership that changes lives. A staff member goes above and beyond because they care deeply about their learners and community.
These moments matter.
That is why the IAACE Awards exist.
The purpose of our awards is simple. We want to recognize outstanding work happening across Indiana and celebrate the people and programs making a difference every single day. Recognition from peers carries a unique kind of meaning because it comes from individuals who understand both the challenges and the impact of adult education.
This year, we are delaying the opening of award nominations until June 17.
Why the delay?
Because we listened.
Over the past year, members have shared thoughtful feedback through surveys and conversations about how we can continue improving the awards process. And your board, wants to take the time to make adjustments that better meet the needs of our members while keeping the integrity and prestige of the awards strong.
Our goal is to create a process that feels meaningful, fair, transparent, and accessible while continuing to highlight excellence across our field.
The good news is this. The heart of the awards remains the same.
We want to celebrate YOU.
We want to celebrate your coworkers, your students, your teams, your programs, and the incredible innovation happening throughout Indiana adult education.
One of my biggest hopes this year is that every program submits at least one nomination.
Not because winning is the only goal, but because recognition matters. Taking the time to nominate someone says:
“I see your hard work.”
“You made a difference.”
“What you do matters.”
And in a field where people give so much of themselves, those words can mean everything.
IAACE offers award categories that recognize a variety of contributions across adult education including leadership, innovation, service, partnership, and student achievement. Whether your program is large or small, there is a place to highlight excellence and share your story.
You can explore the award categories and details here:
As we finalize updates to the process, I encourage you to start thinking now about the people in your program who deserve recognition. Who inspires students? Who consistently steps up? Who has introduced a new idea or created meaningful change? Who quietly makes your program stronger every day?
Those are the stories we want to hear.
And while we are talking about feedback, this is also the perfect time to remind you that the IAACE Membership Survey is one of the best ways to help shape the future of our organization. Many of the conversations surrounding the awards process started because members took the time to share honest thoughts and recommendations.
Your voice truly matters.
Thank you for the work you do, the lives you impact, and the community we continue building together. I cannot wait to see the nominations and celebrate the incredible work happening across Indiana adult education.
