2024 NIEA Award Winners

Award winners will be celebrated during the NIEA Awards Luncheon on Thursday, October 10, 2024.

 
2024 NIEA Lifetime Achievement Award Winners

The Nation Indian Education Association’s Lifetime Achievement and Cultural Freedom Awards recognizes and honors individuals and organizations, who have made significant contributions to the education of American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian people. Their leadership, passion, and dedication for improving education stand as a testimony to the power and potential of all Native students and serve to inspire new generations of educators.

Lifetime Achievement Award Winner
 

Annabelle Toledo

Annabelle Toledo is an enrolled member of the Pueblo of Jemez, New Mexico, a federally recognized tribe with deep roots in Walatowa. Fluent in Towa and a proud member of the Fire Clan, Annabelle Toledo draws strength from a rich cultural heritage passed down through generations. With over 30 years of government service, Annabelle Toledo has held key roles in various federal agencies, including the National Museum of the American Indian and the U.S. Department of Education's Office of Indian Education. A dedicated Education Program Specialist, Annabelle Toledo focuses on serving the academic and cultural needs of American Indian and Alaska Native children, empowering Native parents and communities.


 

2024 William J. Demmert Cultural Freedom Award Winner

California Indian Education For All

California Indian Education for All (CIEFA) is a nonprofit that exists to help teachers and schools  educate children and youth about the diverse histories, cultures and contributions of California  Native peoples. CIEFA’s goals are to create culturally responsive resources that improve  representations and classroom climates for teaching and learning about California's first  people.


2024 NIEA Community Award Winners

NIEA provides all educators and advocates an opportunity to recognize individuals in Native communities who are role models and have provided service to their community. NIEA invites members to nominate deserving individuals and organizations for recognition.

2024 Elder of the
Year

Bernard Suina

2024 Educator of the Year

Dr. Joely Proudfit

2024 Classroom Teacher of the Year

Daisy Woods

 
2024 Community Service of the Year

Lynn Mitchell

2024 Parent of the
Year

Stephanie Hudson

 
 

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