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.

2026 President's Award Winner - Mark Lyons

REMC is excited to announce this year's President Award winner is Mark Lyons, Director of REMC 9 and current RITS Chair.

Mark represents the very best of the REMC spirit — leadership, service, collaboration, innovation, and a deep commitment to supporting education across Michigan. He embodies all of these qualities and more.

Mark has been a strong and steady leader in helping educators across the state use technology in meaningful ways. He understands that technology is not just about devices, programs, or platforms. It is about creating better learning experiences for students. Mark knows the secret to success is helping teachers feel confident, supported, and prepared. Most importantly, it is about using the right tools in the right way.

Mark’s leadership as a REMC Director, and also within the RITS group - has helped educators think beyond simply using technology to integrating it with purpose. He has encouraged collaboration, problem-solving, and innovation in classrooms and districts across Michigan. His ability to bring people together, listen to their needs, and guide them toward practical solutions has made a lasting impact.

Mark is known for his dedication, his forward-thinking approach, and his genuine passion for helping others succeed. Because of leaders like Mark, educators have more tools, more confidence, and more opportunities to create engaging learning environments. 

Congratulations Mark Lyons!


Headshot of Mark Lyons, President Award Recipeint

Past Award Winners

2025 - Steve Kass, Copper Country ISD/REMC 1

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