What is Excellence in Education?
Since 1994, Grow & Lead: Community and Youth Development has recognized outstanding high school students and educators in Marquette and Alger counties through the Excellence in Education Week program. This unique, community-based partnership publicly highlights current leaders in education and students with high academic achievement. The program kicks off with an awards program at NMU and continues with Days of Excellence at area school districts.
On Monday evening of Excellence in Education Week, the top 5% of graduating seniors are recognized along with an educator they have selected as most influential to their academic success. In addition, 25 educators receive Professional Development Awards to support special projects in their classrooms or attend continuing education opportunities. Approximately 350 educators, students, parents, school representatives and community members attend.
Grow & Lead believes that a supportive community helps young people thrive. Excellence In Education Week helps young people know our community values their efforts to be the best they can be and the role of educators in students’ success.
To make a donation, donate online or contact the Community Foundation of Marquette County at (906) 226-7666 or the Alger Regional Community Foundation at (906) 387-3902.
Judy Watson Olson
Education Enrichment Award 2025
The Judy Watson Olson Education Enrichment Award was created in honor of former Grow & Lead President and CEO, Judy Watson Olson. Judy spent her career ensuring youth had the support they needed to grow into successful adults.
This $500 award assists Upper Peninsula K-12 schools, teachers, or organizations with programs that help youth succeed academically. Examples of potential projects include homework clubs, field trips, mentoring or literacy support.
Applicants must be from Upper Peninsula school districts or youth-serving organizations. Selection will be based on how the program addresses an unmet need, how it helps youth succeed academically, the number of youths served, and other compelling data as determined by the selection committee. There are no restrictions as to how many times an applicant is chosen, but applicants may not repeat the purpose of a previously received award.
Excellence in Education 2025 Sponsors
Sponsors present at the Excellence in Education Awards 2025
Left to Right: Robert Luke, Blue Cross Blue Shield; Meagen Morrison, Eagle Mine; Phil Hansen, Alger Regional Community Foundation; Lucy Grove, UP Heath System; Gabe Seelen & Janelle Seelen, SEMCO Energy; Jamie Gollakner, Honor Credit Union; Emma Schultz, Community Foundation of Marquette County.
