The Friend of The Council Award was created in 1996 and is given annually in recognition of a person's contribution to the NYSCOSS and the field of education.
2026 Friend of The Council
NYS Senator Shelley B. Mayer, 37th Senate District
Chair of Committee on Education
enator Shelley Mayer was selected to receive the 2026 Friend of The Council Award in recognition of her unwavering advocacy for public schools and the students and families they serve. She has been a genuine partner to school leaders across New York State, regardless of a district’s political representation. Senator Mayer consistently pledges to support all children and demonstrates that commitment through her daily work. Her steadfast dedication makes her richly deserving of this honor, even before considering the depth of her continued support for students and school leaders.
Council staff and school leaders have worked closely with Senator Mayer throughout her tenure. When we identify shared priorities, she partners with us to advance them. Her tireless advocacy has helped secure full funding for Foundation Aid; protect “save harmless” districts from cuts; reform the Annual Professional Performance Review law; extend flexibility to hire retirees; advance a constitutional amendment addressing the small-city debt limit; and support many other priorities. Even when we disagree, our conversations with Senator Mayer remain thoughtful and respectful. She consistently seeks feedback and has revised legislation in response to our concerns to help ensure policies are both effective and workable. She is, without question, one of the most thoughtful and collaborative legislators with whom we have had the privilege to work.
Public education in New York is fortunate to have a champion as intelligent, principled, and compassionate as Senator Shelley Mayer.
The Friend of The Council Award will be presented during the Monday Morning Keynote on September 28, 2026 beginning at the new time of 8:30 a.m.
2027 Nominations' Process
Nominations are provided by members or Council staff and are due in January for the selection process. A selected individual must be:
- Actively involved in education and supportive of The Council's mission. Superintendents and Assistant Superintendent members of NYSCOSS are not eligible for this award.
- Recognized by educational leaders as a person who contributes time to improving public education.
If you are interested in nominating an individual for the 2027 award, send your nomination to Deidre Hungerford by January 8, 2027 at deidre@nyscoss.org. Candidates can be nominated with an emailed letter.
The Distinguished Service Committee, composed of current Council presidents and past presidents who are active superintendents, screen all nominations for selection of one candidate. Please contact theresa@nyscoss.org for a full list of award winners.
For details or to nominate an individual contact:
Deidre G. Hungerford
Associate Director for Business Development
E: deidre@nyscoss.org
T: 518.694.4885
Twitter: @deehungerford28 #NYSCOSSWell