Each year, DEC honors individuals who are making a difference in the lives of young children with special needs and their families.
Rose C. Engel Award for Excellence in Professional Practice
Given to a DEC member who is a practicing professional and whose primary role is serving young children with special needs and their families.This special award is given to honor Rose Engel, DEC’s first President, whose leadership has shaped DEC as an organization. Nominees are expected to meet the high standards of professional practice set by Rose Engel.
To nominate an individual for the 2010 Rose Engel Award, please follow these instructions.
J. David Sexton Doctoral Student Award
Given to a DEC member and doctoral level student whose contributions include research, higher education, publications, policy, and information dissemination. This award is named in honor of J. David Sexton because of his passionate commitment to doctoral leadership preparation. The Sexton award is given to a doctoral student who embodies the leadership characteristics Dr. Sexton possessed and worked to nurture in others.
To nominate an individual for the 2010 David Sexton Award, please follow these instructions.
Merle B. Karnes Award for Service to the Division
Given to a DEC member who has made a significant contribution to the Division in areas of leadership, service, research, advocacy, or publications. This award is given in honor of Dr. Merle Karnes who served the Division of Early Childhood for many years as a member of the Executive Board and as the founder and first editor of the Journal for Early Intervention.
To nominate an individual for the 2010 Merle Karnes Award, please follow these instructions.
Kathleen W. McCartan Award
Given to undergraduate or masters level students who have made significant contributions through their service to the field, community, and professional organizations. This award is given in memory of Kathleen McCartan who was a leader in the field of personnel preparation and served for many years on the Executive Board of DEC.
To nominate an individual for the 2010 Kathleen McCartan Award, please follow these instructions.
Mary McEvoy Service to the Field Award
Given to a parent, community member, or professional who has made notable and significant national or international contributions to the field of early childhood special education. It is given in memory of Mary McEvoy who was a leader in the early childhood special education field.
To nominate an individual for the 2010 Mary McEvoy Award, please follow these instructions.
Past Award Winners. Click here to see a list of past DEC Award Winners.