The nominations for the 2026 Impact in Education Awards are officially open. These awards aim to honour educators, researchers and staff members who are making a strong and lasting difference in the field of education. Individuals working in roles that go beyond classroom teaching—such as mentoring, innovation in learning, curriculum development, or supporting student success—are eligible to be nominated. The awards are not limited to any one designation or role. Instead, they celebrate overall contributions that help shape a better educational environment.
I’m writing about this topic because I strongly feel these awards play a key role in encouraging those who work quietly behind the scenes to improve education. While teachers often receive recognition for their front-facing roles, it is equally important to highlight the efforts of people who create real change through research, program design, student support and leadership in academic institutions. Many times, deserving people go unnoticed just because no one steps up to nominate them. If you know someone who has been consistently working to make education more meaningful, now is the time to make their contribution visible. Let’s break the habit of overlooking good work and instead make sure it’s recognised and rewarded.
Who Can Be Nominated?
Anyone working within an academic setting who has made a measurable impact in education can be nominated. This includes but is not limited to:
- Faculty members
- Researchers
- Academic advisors
- Instructional designers
- Teaching assistants
- Support staff involved in student learning or well-being
There are separate award categories, which usually include excellence in teaching, mentorship, leadership, innovation, and community engagement. Each category has its own criteria, so it’s important to read the nomination guidelines carefully.
How to Nominate Someone
The nomination process is simple but requires a bit of preparation. Here’s how it usually works:
- Go to the official awards page of the hosting institution.
- Choose the correct award category.
- Prepare a nomination letter detailing the nominee’s contribution.
- Include examples, results, and evidence wherever possible.
- Submit the nomination form before the stated deadline.
Typically, a nomination should also include at least one letter of support from a student, peer, or supervisor who has directly benefited from the nominee’s work.
What Makes a Strong Nomination?
Here are a few tips if you are planning to nominate someone:
- Be specific. Don’t just say “she’s an amazing mentor.” Describe what makes her mentoring effective.
- Include data or feedback from students if available.
- Mention long-term impact or initiatives the nominee started that are still running.
- Keep the tone sincere and straightforward. Avoid exaggeration.
Submission Deadline and Results
The nomination window is expected to stay open for several weeks, so there’s time to gather your documents and write a detailed entry. However, submitting early is always better. Finalists will be notified once the review committee completes its process, and the award ceremony is usually scheduled for early 2026.
Conclusion
If there’s someone in your institution who has quietly changed the way students learn or thrive, this is your chance to bring their work to light. Awards like the Impact in Education not only recognise individual contributions but also motivate the entire academic community. Go ahead—write that nomination. You could be the reason someone’s hard work finally gets the appreciation it deserves.
