Awarded to: Nathan Hall Nathan, a member of Falmouth EA, is a perfect example of how strong organizing and leadership can create positive change in the community. Nathan’s success orchestrating two successful write-in campaigns for the Falmouth School Board is an example of the profound impact that political action has at a local level.
Ashley Bryan Award Awarded to: Reza Jalali
2024 MEA Representative Assembly EDUCATE, EMPOWER, EXCEL The MEA held its annual Representative Assembly (RA) in May. The MEA RA is the largest democratic body of the association, made up of educators elected by their local associations to represent their districts. This year, RA delegates set the course of work for the Union in the upcoming school year and discussed and took positions on key education issues. The following pages are items voted on by the delegates at the Representative Assembly.
MEA’s Ashley Bryan Arts and Humanities Award honors an individual in the arts and the humanities for their commitment to education and their work and advocacy for human and civil rights and social justice. The Director of the Greater Portland Immigrant Welcome Center, Reza Jalali, is credited with leading the organization to financial stability, increasing programming that improved the lives of New Mainers, and launching the “Women Lead” program which seeks to empower immigrant women to pursue their economic and educational goals.
Corporate Award Awarded to: Side X Side Side X Side works "side by side" to create community partnerships between organizations like the University of Southern Maine, school districts, and artists to enhance the school curriculum through the arts.
Friend of Education Award Awarded to: Rep. Michael Brennan As the House Chair of the Education and Cultural Affairs Committee, Representative Brennan has consistently demonstrated his dedication to ensuring quality and equitable public education and his commitment to both educators and students.
Anne Sheehan Political Action Award Awarded to: Marissa Armitage A member of the Maine Chapter of Moms Demand Action, Marissa was quick to join when MEA members formed the group Educators for Gun Safety. Marissa's dedication and tireless efforts have not only made our state a safer place, but they have also inspired others to take action.
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Maine Educator | Summer 2024
Awarded to: Stephanie Oiler Stephanie has been an active volunteer in the Hermon Schools since her children were in kindergarten. More recently, she has volunteered for the Junior Achievement Program in third-grade classrooms and is the Key Club advisor for the high school. Currently, Stephanie serves as the chair of the Hermon School Committee, where she has proven herself to be a strong advocate for Hermon students and educators. (Pictured above is Stephanie's daughter accepting the award on her behalf.)