2025 NYSCOSS Excellence in Leadership Award Winners
Monday, April 28, 2025
Renaissance Albany Hotel
Celebrate & Elevate NY Superintendents Exemplifying the Spirit of Excellence
NYSCOSS, in partnership with Discovery Education, held the first Excellence in Leadership Awards Dinner this Spring. The honorees are superintendents who embodies the spirit of excellence, leadership and commitment to their district and region.
Superintendent Winners for Spirit of Excellence
During the Awards Dinner, we celebrated the peer-nominated superintendents in your BOCES who embodies the spirit of excellence and commitment to their district.
Innovative Leadership Champion 2025
David Bills
Superintendent, West Genesse CSD
David Bills is the Superintendent of Schools at West Genesee Central School District. Over the past six years, he has focused on maximizing resources to provide innovative opportunities for students. Under his leadership, West Genesee has undergone redistricting to better align instructional practices, requiring strong collaboration with teachers and parents.
David also led the district in purchasing a golf course adjacent to the high school, enabling new instructional and operational possibilities. This bold move exemplifies his collaborative leadership style.
Community Improvement Champion 2025
Loretta Fowler
Superintendent, Chateaugay CSD
Loretta Fowler is the Superintendent of Chateaugay Central School, and an innovative, compassionate leader dedicated to the success and well-being of her students, staff, and community. She leads with integrity and vision, making her an ideal candidate for this honor.
Loretta has brought transformative change to the region through her efforts to restore shared special education programming. She partnered with BOCES and neighboring districts to design a sustainable model, providing daily, hands-on support. This model has succeeded and is expanding to meet additional regional needs.
Positive School Culture Champion 2025
David Lilleck
Superintendent, Orchard Park CSD
David Lilleck is known for his innovative thinking and willingness to challenge the status quo. He has set a high standard for school leaders in the Erie2-Chautauqua-Cattaraugus BOCES component school districts and the broader Western New York region.
Mr. Lilleck fosters a culture of collaboration, encouraging teamwork and open communication among administrators, teachers, students, and parents. His empathetic nature and supportive approach inspire those around him to reach their full potential.
Despite facing significant political attacks, Mr. Lilleck has courageously led the Orchard Park District. He has confronted district traditions that benefited some students based on family means, ensuring all students are well served.
District Growth Champion 2025
Winsome Gregory
Superintendent, Greenburgh Eleven UFSD
Dr. Gregory is a visionary leader dedicated to shaping the future of learning. She champions innovative technology in classrooms, ensuring students have the tools to thrive. Her focus on technology-enriched classrooms, diagnostic assessments, literacy support, and STEM education addresses current needs. Under her leadership, G11UFSD has grown significantly and cultivated a positive school culture. Implementing PBIS and Restorative Justice, she prioritizes student well-being and community cohesion. Her emphasis on holistic child development and mental well-being has improved student health. Dr. Gregory embraces new methodologies, including AI, and seeks professional development to enhance the district's capabilities.
Location
Renaissance Albany Hotel • Dewitt Ballroom
144 State Street, Albany, New York, 12207
Schedule of Events
5:00 PM – 6:00 PM | Welcome Reception
Check in and enjoy cocktails and hors d’oeuvres with your colleagues and peers during the welcome reception.
6:00 PM – 6:15 PM | Opening Remarks
Guests will take their seats for a brief introduction to the awards ceremony and special recognition of the evening’s hosts.
6:15 PM – 7:00 PM | Dinner & Conversation
During dinner, the honorees will be called up to receive their awards, with a brief introduction, highlights of their achievements.
7:00 PM – 8:30 PM | Dinner & Awards Presentation
Honorees will be celebrated and receive their awards, with a brief introduction, highlights of their achievements.
8:00 PM – 9:00 PM | After-Dinner Social & Entertainment
Enjoy coffee, tea, desserts and a toast to end the evening on a sweet note.
Organizers
Deidre Hungerford
Director, Business Development
NYSCOSS
deidre@nyscoss.org
Gianna Wenzel
Events Coordinator
Discovery Education
GWenzel@discoveryed.com