Women's Caucus Awards

The PASA Women's Caucus honors two individuals annually for special awards of recognition.  Both awards are based on four criteria: leadership, significant contributions in inspiring women and/or their peers, significant accomplishments, and evidence of continuing professional and/or personal growth.

Nominations are collected annually beginning in February and concluding in April. Winners are selected by the Women’s Caucus Committee and honored at the annual Women’s Caucus Conference in May.

When the nomination period begins, you can find the links to submit your nomination here.

Wanda McDaniel Award:

2026: Mrs. Anita Young, Director of Online Learning, Huntingdon Area School District 

As the Director of Online Learning for the Huntingdon Area School District, Dr. Anita Young transformed a bold vision into a thriving K–12 online and blended learning program that is changing lives across her community.  Through strategic planning, dedication, and a student-centered mindset, Anita built a sustainable educational model that now serves hundreds of learners while saving the district nearly $1.8 million annually. 

What began as a pilot program has grown into a community-supported initiative that provides flexible learning opportunities tailored to the diverse needs of students and families. Anita’s impact extends far beyond systems and innovation. She is a passionate advocate for students, families, and educators—creating opportunities that empower young people to discover their strengths, explore career pathways, and engage meaningfully with their communities. Through initiatives like BILD Pathfinders, students gain hands-on experiences and industry certifications in fields including health sciences, information technology, business, and culinary arts.

2025: Dr. Tania Stoker, Assistant Superintendent, Northern Lehigh School District 

Dr. Stoker exemplifies visionary, student-centered leadership through her transformative work at Northern Lehigh. As Assistant Superintendent, she expanded the English Language Development Program more than fourfold by securing critical resources and community support to better serve multilingual learners. She also led innovative efforts to integrate technology, including the development of AI-supported tools that help educators create accessible, language-inclusive lessons benefiting English learners, struggling readers, and students with special needs.

Dr. Stoker strengthened Career and Technical Education pathways to prepare students for future careers and led service initiatives that support families in need. Her forward-thinking, equity-driven leadership is building a more inclusive and sustainable future for students and the broader community.

2024: Dr. Amanda Benolken, Director of Education at New Hope-Solebury School District

Dr. Amanda Benolken’s visionary leadership has advanced New Hope-Solebury through innovation, inclusivity, and a strong commitment to student success. She accelerated the district’s strategic plan, led a responsive technology shift during the pandemic, and developed a comprehensive STEAM curriculum to prepare students for the future. Dr. Benolken strengthened community connections through parent engagement initiatives and revitalized the district’s community school.

A lifelong learner, she participates in national leadership programs and mentors emerging leaders through university partnerships. Her advocacy for female leadership and dedication to professional growth extend her impact beyond the district, helping to shape the next generation of educational leaders while building a stronger, more connected school community.

2023: Dr. Nicole Dice, Superintendent at Turkeyfoot Valley Area School District 

Nicole became Pennsylvania’s youngest female superintendent in 2020 and quickly proved herself as a resilient, innovative leader. She guided her district through the pandemic with measurable academic growth and earned recognition as the 32nd Senatorial District’s 2021 Person of the Year.

She has built a collaborative leadership team that includes administrators, educators, parents, and staff to better respond to diverse student needs and foster professional growth. An attentive listener and strategic problem solver, Nicole modernized systems, stabilized the budget during a major deficit, strengthened special education, restored the music program, and continues to mentor and develop future women leaders within her district.

Click here to view additional previous award recipients. 
 
 

2026: Dr. Elizabeth Robison, Superintendent, Pocono Mountain School District

As Superintendent of the Pocono Mountain School District, Dr. Elizabeth Robison has led dynamic initiatives to advance academic success and meet the evolving needs of students and families. Championing a whole-child approach, she expanded trauma-informed practices, behavioral health supports, and access to counseling services. She also helped remove barriers to opportunity through universal free breakfast and lunch, expanded extracurricular transportation, and increased academic supports.

Under her leadership, the district’s cyber program was transformed into a comprehensive K–12 online learning model offering flexible, rigorous pathways while maintaining strong connections to school and community. Her strategic leadership has contributed to improved graduation outcomes for vulnerable learners and expanded career readiness opportunities.

Beyond the district, Dr. Robison is a passionate advocate for developing future leaders, particularly women in education. Through her involvement with PASA’s Women’s Caucus, Board of Governors, and mentorship initiatives, she has inspired educators to pursue leadership roles and strengthen schools and communities across Pennsylvania.

2025 Dr. Maureen Reusche, Superintendent, School District of Haverford Township

Dr. Reusche’s exemplary leadership and unwavering commitment to education have left an indelible mark on the School District of Haverford Township. As the district’s first female superintendent, a role she has held since 2015, she has led with vision, compassion, and dedication. Under her guidance, the district has prioritized mental health, amplified student voice, strengthened community engagement, and embraced strategic planning. She has expanded innovative learning opportunities, including AP Computer Science, Drone Aviation, Sports Media, and Engineering to Learn, while overseeing major infrastructure improvements and advancing sustainability through propane-powered school buses.

Beyond her administrative accomplishments, Dr. Reusche is a visible and steadfast presence in the school community, supporting students and staff in classrooms, at activities, and throughout Havertown. A dedicated mentor, she has encouraged aspiring leaders—particularly women—to pursue administration and engage with PASA’s Women’s Caucus. After more than four decades in education, her legacy reflects excellence, compassion, and service.

2024: Ms. Lee Ann Wentzel, Superintendent, Ridley School District 

Lee Ann’s leadership at Ridley was defined by innovation, advocacy, and inclusivity. She launched a pioneering one-to-one technology initiative that positioned the district for seamless learning during the pandemic. She expanded opportunities through programs for students with special needs and dual-enrollment college partnerships, while championing diversity and mentoring future female leaders. A strong advocate for her district, Lee Ann has testified before legislators to elevate education policy discussions.

She fostered a supportive culture that values work-life balance and family. Active in local and international service, Lee Ann’s impact earned Ridley recognition for innovation and academic excellence and has strengthened the district and broader educational community.

2023: Dr. Misty Slavic, Superintendent, Kiski Area School District 

Dr. Misty Slavic made a lasting impact as superintendent of Kiski Area. She helped launch the Alle-Kiski Academy of Excellence, expanding flexible, online learning while keeping students connected to their schools.

Misty also strengthened curriculum planning, restructured special education to support inclusive learning, improved district communications, and introduced a certified therapy dog to support student and staff well-being.