2026 NYSCOSS Excellence in Leadership Award Winners
Celebrate & Elevate NY Superintendents Exemplifying the Spirit of Excellence
NYSCOSS, in partnership with Discovery Education, hosted the second annual Excellence in Leadership Awards Dinner. The event honored peer‑nominated superintendents who exemplify outstanding leadership, excellence, and a deep commitment to their districts and regions. During the Awards Dinner, we proudly recognized the superintendents from your BOCES whose leadership reflects this enduring commitment to educational excellence.
Innovative Leadership Champion 2026
Dr. Krislynn Dengler
Superintendent, Glens Falls City School District
As the first female superintendent in Glens Falls CSD history, Dr. Krislynn Dengler has provided innovative, values‑driven leadership grounded in academic excellence, fiscal responsibility, and student well‑being. She successfully guided the district through a thoughtful community rebranding process, strengthening engagement and shared identity.
Dr. Dengler is widely recognized for her collaborative leadership and advocacy on behalf of students—locally, regionally, and at the state level. Her work reflects innovation rooted in purpose and partnership, earning her recognition as the Innovative Leadership Champion.
Community Improvement Champion 2026
Dr. David Mauricio
Superintendent, Peekskill City SD
Dr. David Mauricio has strengthened Peekskill’s schools as centers of opportunity through sustained community engagement and partnership. By fostering collaboration among staff, families, civic leaders, and the Board of Education, he has built shared ownership for student success.
His leadership has expanded access to academic, wellness, and enrichment opportunities through initiatives such as Saturday Academy and the Lisa Rolleri Parent Resource Center. Through these efforts, Dr. Mauricio has advanced equity, strengthened family connections, and improved outcomes for students across the Peekskill community.
Community Improvement Champion 2026
Gretchen Rosales
Superintendent, Elba Central SD
Gretchen Rosales has demonstrated exceptional community‑centered leadership in Elba CSD by building partnerships that address academic, social, and family needs. Serving a rural district with a growing immigrant population, she established a locally driven Community Schools model—without formal funding—that provides health services, food security, and wraparound supports.
Her leadership has expanded dual enrollment, bilingual programming, and career‑connected pathways while engaging students in service‑based learning that strengthens the local economy. A trusted advocate and regional resource, Gretchen’s work reflects the profound impact schools can have when leadership is grounded in community improvement.
Positive School Culture Champion 2026
Rob Price
Superintendent, Onondaga Central SD
Throughout his thirteen years as Superintendent of Onondaga CSD, Rob Price has cultivated a district culture defined by trust, presence, and servant leadership. Known for his strong relationships with students, staff, and families, he leads with authenticity and visibility, setting a tone that is deeply embedded across the district.
Rob’s approach to leadership—centered on listening, transparency, and thoughtful engagement—has strengthened community trust and guided the district through complex conversations with clarity and care. His lasting impact on district culture exemplifies the purpose of the Positive School Culture Champion award.
District Growth Champion 2026
Lisa Wiles
Superintendent, Ellenville CSD
Lisa Wiles has led Ellenville CSD with a clear focus on expanding opportunity, strengthening instruction, and ensuring long‑term district growth. Her leadership has advanced career‑connected learning through the creation of an internal P‑TECH–style pathway and expanded access to Ulster BOCES career and technical education programs.
Equally impactful has been her strategic emphasis on instructional leadership and internal capacity‑building. Under her guidance, the district has achieved significant gains in math, ELA, and middle school science proficiency. Lisa’s leadership demonstrates how purposeful innovation and sustained investment can drive meaningful academic outcomes for students and the community.
Organizers
Deidre Hungerford
Director, Business Development
NYSCOSS
deidre@nyscoss.org
Gianna Wenzel
Events Coordinator
Discovery Education
GWenzel@discoveryed.com