2020-2021
GRAND PRIZE WINNER
At Joplin High School, Sue played a vital part in helping thousands of students pursue their dreams of attending college. She maintained the school’s chapter of the Missouri A+ program, which helps students enter Missouri junior colleges with free tuition and books. She also implemented the Innovation Campus program, which allows students in financial need to enroll in college-level courses while in high school.
As a school counselor, Sue wasn’t afraid to hold students accountable for their actions, but she also demonstrated kindness and compassion to everyone she encountered. She was known for helping students find safe places to live, locating resources for pregnant girls, helping with college applications, and taking the time to listen to those who were struggling. Years later, many of her former students still have contact with her because of her willingness to go above and beyond.
As the Grand Prize Winner, Sue has received $10,000 to be shared between a $5,000 individual award and a $5,000 donation to Joplin High School.
GRAND PRIZE FINALISTS
These educators have received $5,000 from the National Life Group Foundation to be shared between a $2,500 individual award and a $2,500 donation to their school or district.
LIFECHANGER AWARD WINNERS
These educators have received $3,000 from the National Life Group Foundation to be shared between a $1,500 individual award and a $1,500 donation to their school or district.
SPIRIT AWARD
The 2020-21 Spirit Award was given to Tiffany Cox for the incredible support her school demonstrated for her nomination. She received $5,000 to be shared between a $2,500 individual award and a $2,500 donation to her school.
SPOTLIGHT AWARD
The 2020-21 Spotlight Award was given to Stacie Kunihisa for her outstanding work with helping her school transition to a remote learning model. She received $5,000 to be shared between a $2,500 individual award and a $2,500 donation to her school.
CAPSTONE AWARD
In August 2020, Anthony Manville was named our inaugural Capstone Award winner for the legacy he created over his 40+ year career as an educator. He received $3,000 to be shared between a $1,500 individual award and a $1,500 donation to his district.