Texas CEC Awards
Each year, the TX CEC Unit Awards highlight the individuals and groups making a difference in special education across our state. These awards provide an opportunity to recognize peers and colleagues for their leadership, service, and commitment to exceptional children—and we encourage members to submit nominations to help celebrate this important work.
General Nomination Guidelines
- Self-nominations are not accepted.
- Nominations must be submitted by a colleague, supervisor, or advisor (as specified by award).
- All nominees should demonstrate meaningful contributions to the field of special education and alignment with the mission of TX CEC.
- Award recipients will be notified prior to the annual conference and recognized at the Summer Conference.
Required Nomination Materials (unless otherwise noted):
- Nominee name, title/role, and affiliation
- Nominator name, title/role, and affiliation
- A written nomination statement (300-500 words) describing the nominee’s qualifications
Award recipients will be notified prior to the annual conference.
All awards are recognized at the annual Summer Conference.
Nominations are now closed.
Outstanding Chapter Awards
Texas CEC presents two annual awards to recognize student chapters that demonstrate exceptional engagement, leadership, and contributions to the field of special education. Each year, chapters will be evaluated across a broad set of indicators, including both foundational engagement and advanced contributions. Nominations are made by TX CEC Student Chapter Advisors only.
Graduate Student Research Award
Honors an outstanding graduate student whose scholarly work shows promise in advancing special education.
Early Career Professional Award
Recognizes a Texas CEC member in the early stages of their career who demonstrates exceptional promise and impact as a professional in the field of special education. This award honors individuals who, within a relatively short time in the field, have contributed meaningful innovations, leadership, or service.
Kathleen Varner Service Award
Established in 1985 in honor of past president Kathleen Varner, who made significant lifelong contributions to individuals with disabilities and to Texas CEC. This award recognizes members who have demonstrated outstanding service in similar ways.