President's Award Winners
The REMC President's Award (formerly Making IT Happen Award) honors outstanding educators and leaders who demonstrate extraordinary commitment, leadership, courage and persistence in improving digital learning opportunities for learners. Award recipients are educators who:
- Use technology in innovative ways to support learning goals.
- Teach through strong relationships - inspiring, encouraging and nurturing
- Recognize that further change is necessary, but understand that it is a process.
- Realize that teacher empowerment is the key to transforming learning.
- Motivate through awareness and access to information.
2025 President's Award Winner - Steve Kass
Steve Kass was presented with the award, plaque and jacket during the REMC Summer Inservice held in northern Michigan.
Steve currently serves as the Business and Entrepreneur Instructor and Association Work-Based Learning Coordinator in Copper Country ISD. He has made significant contributions to the educational landscape in his region. For the past two years, he also served as the RITS Chair. With a keen focus on work-based learning, Steve ensured that all in-person RITS meetings were not only collaborative and centered on REMC projects, but also emphasized the crucial role of technology in the workplace. His innovative approach led to the establishment of several unique tours and visits, offering REMC and RITS members valuable opportunities to witness technology careers in action.
Steve truly embodies the spirit of the REMC President’s Award through his inspiring and encouraging leadership. He consistently champions the idea that teacher empowerment is the fundamental key to transforming learning experiences.
Past Award Winners
2024 - Sarah Wood, Kent ISD/REMC 8
2023 - Judy Bowling, Wayne RESA/REMC 20 and Kerry Guiliano, Melvindale-Northern Allen Park School District
2022 - Carolyn McCarthy and Melissa White - Project Leaders for 21Things4Students and MiTechKids
2019 - Steve Schmunk, MARESA/REMC 21
2018 - Anupam Chugh, Wayne RESA/REMC 20
2017 - Mike Souden and Ann-Marie Mapes, Michigan Department of Education
2016 - Luke Wittum, Genesee ISD/REMC 14 East
2015 - Brad Wilson from Jackson ISD/REMC 15 and Andy Mann and Greg Marten from Lenawee ISD/REMC 19 West and Anthony Buza from Genesee ISD/REMC14 East and Ken Schramm, Wayne RESA/REMC 20
2014 - Nancy Corner, Erik Drake and Mike Richardson - TRIG Device Purchasing
2013 - Melinda Waffle, Calhoun ISD/REMC 12 East
