This year’s event is especially meaningful as it also marks MINNDEPENDENT’s 50th Anniversary—honoring five decades of service, support, and advocacy for our vibrant school community.
Together, we’ll celebrate outstanding educators, leaders, volunteers, and programs, reflect on our shared history, and look ahead to the future of student-centered education across Minnesota.

Event Information:
Sunday, April 26 ~ 4-7 pm
Mendakota Country Club

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JIM FIELD LEGACY AWARD

DOUG JAEGER
President & CEO
Ulteig

LEADERSHIP AWARD

KELLY ROCHE
Principal
St. Joseph School – Rosemount

LEADERSHIP AWARD

ROSS DOUMA
President
Avail Academy – Blaine-Edina-Fridley

HONOR TEACHER AWARD

NICK PENNELL
Music Teacher
Our Lady of Peace – Minneapolis

HONOR TEACHER AWARD

BEN GAPINSKI
Math/STEM Teacher
Hill-Murray – Maplewood

BEHIND THE SCENES AWARD

MICHELLE YOUNESS
Parent & Volunteer
Community of Saints Regional Catholic School
West St. Paul

COMMUNITY CHAMPION AWARD

TERI McCLOUGHAN
JD Attorney
Stapleton & McCloughan, PLLC

PROGRAM AWARD

PIONEER PATHWAY
Hill-Murray
Maplewood

Jim Field Legacy Award Award
- Honors an individual who champions independent and private education in Minnesota through passionate advocacy, collaborative leadership, and a deep appreciation for the diverse communities served by schools across the state.

Behind the Scenes Award
- Honors the unsung heroes—staff, coaches, and volunteers who go above and beyond to create welcoming, caring school communities.
Community Champion Award
- Recognizes individuals or groups who make a positive impact within their school and the broader community, including board members, donors, and dedicated supporters.
Program Award
- Highlights innovative and successful programs that enhance student learning, engagement, and growth.
Leadership Award (2 awardees)
- Celebrates visionary school leaders, including heads, presidents, principals, superintendents, and executive directors, whose leadership creates lasting, transformative impact on their schools and communities.
Honor Teacher Award (2 awardees)
- Recognizing exceptional educators who exemplify passion, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to student success, leaving a lasting impact both inside and beyond the classroom.