MREA Celebrated at Character Recognition Awards Luncheon
Minnesota Rural Education Association recently received the Minnesota Ethical Leadership Award, which celebrates community programs developing character, strengths, and ethical leadership skills in its participants.
MREA was one of six honorees celebrated for excellence at the 2022 Character Recognition Awards luncheon presented by Synergy & Leadership Exchange and Saint Mary’s University. The Awards are held each year to spotlight character and ethical leadership development, honor schools and community programs with exemplary efforts, motivate honorees for continued effort and success, and inspire others with examples to replicate. Honorees were recognized in four different categories:
- Minnesota Ethical Leadership Award
- Minnesota Promising Practices Award
- Promising Principal Award
- Champion of Character
“In a time when divisive, negative news dominates the headlines, it is inspiring to see the great things students, schools, community groups and individuals are doing to encourage and promote good character and ethical leadership in Minnesota,” shared Wanda Sommers Wall, executive director at Synergy & Leadership Exchange.
Deputy Commissioner Stephanie Burrage, Ed.D. shared a welcome from the Minnesota Department of Education and Benjamin Houltberg, Ph.D., President and CEO of the Search Institute, delivered an inspiring keynote.
“There is no doubt that habits are important for character development but may not be sustainable over time. Habits that are also connected to contributing to something bigger than ourselves provide the fuel that help us grow and make an impact on those around us,” shared Houltberg.
MREA is a membership organization serving public school districts throughout Greater Minnesota. As one voice they elevate rural education through legislative advocacy, information sharing, professional development and recognition. MREA provides a platform for members to talk together and share perspectives to help problem solve together.
