“She's super nice. Except when it’s time to fight.” That was NASSP CEO Ronn Nozoe praising Melissa Shindel the 2023 Advocacy Champion, as she prepared to pass the torch to Chris Young, the principal of North Country Union High School in Newport, VT. 2024 NASSP Advocacy Champion of the Year Chris Young, center, with 2023 Champion Melissa Shindel, left, and NASSP CEO Ronn Nozoe. Photo courtesy of NASSP. The announcement came this week at the National School Leaders Advocacy Conference...| NASSP
Since 2019, the Advocacy Champion of the Year Award has honored a leader whose influence in policy and public discourse has helped shape the future of education. This prestigious award is NASSP’s highest recognition for education advocacy—highlighting individuals who elevate the voices of school leaders at every level of government. 2025 NASSP Advocacy Champion of the Year Terri Daniels, center, with NASSP Board President Raquel Martinez, left, and NASSP CEO Ronn Nozoe. Photo courtesy o...| NASSP