Partner Awards
Bender Leadership Academy encourages students and alumni to become disability advocates and thoughtful citizens through civic leadership.
The Educator of the Year winner goes to an educator who goes above and beyond in helping students with disabilities in a Bender Leadership Program.
2022 Educator of the Year
Ruth Briceland
Beaver Area School District
Transition Coordinator (Retired)
2021 Educator of the Year
Alan Crawford
Start On Success Instructor
Special Education Department
Brashear High School – Pittsburgh, PA
The Pioneer Award winner goes to an educator, company, volunteer, or an employee who has contributed to Bender Leadership Academy success for over ten years.
2022 Pioneer Award
Stacie Dojonovic
Transition Coordinator
Fox Chapel School District
2021 Pioneer Award
Dionna Harris
Guidance Counselor
Networks School for Employability
Christina School District, Newark, DE