In May 2022, we lost a fearless champion in Cheryl Broadnax, StriveTogether’s senior director of district improvement, after a battle with cancer. A former assistant superintendent and a fierce advocate of collaborative improvement, Cheryl had a big impact on K-12 education systems across the country.

To honor Cheryl’s legacy and impact, StriveTogether has created the Cheryl Broadnax Award for Innovation and Results, which will be given to a school district leader or staff member who is pursuing better and more equitable outcomes for kids in the K-12 system. Like Cheryl, the award winner will embody determination, courage, innovation and curiosity. This award is for a school district staff member.

Nomination criteria:

The Cheryl Broadnax Award for Innovation and Results recognizes a school district staff member who: 

• Creates continuous and innovative improvement solutions to get better outcomes for students, pushing the boundaries within systems and refusing to accept the status quo.
• Explores what’s underneath current conditions by asking tough questions and holding difficult conversations with grace and kindness.
• Uses data effectively to get better results for students.
• Is an effective partner with the Cradle to Career Network member in their community and champions this work.

Submitting a nomination:

Your nomination should include specific examples of how the individual demonstrates each of the above criteria in their work. Your nomination must be 500 words or less.

Submit your nomination by completing this form by Friday, June 28. 

In addition to this form, you are welcome to submit up to three (3) letters of support for your nominee from individuals whom they work and/or partner with. Please gather the letters and email them together to Elizabeth Male at malee@strivetogether.org by June 28 if you would like them to be included in consideration. Letters of support are not required for nomination.

The award recipient will be recognized during a special presentation at the 2024 Cradle to Career Network Convening, September 25-27 in Salt Lake City.