The Minnesota Association of School Administrators (MASA) has named Dr. Matthew Hillmann, Director of Administrative Services at Northfield Public Schools, as the recipient of the 2016 Outstanding Central Office Leader Award. Dr. Hillmann received this award for exhibiting a willingness to risk, possessing strong communications skills, being a progressive change agent, and having high expectations for self and others. He was honored at a statewide recognition ceremony during the MASA/MASE Spring Conference, March 10-11, 2016, at the Minneapolis Marriott Northwest in Brooklyn Park.

Dr. Hillmann led the re-organization efforts within Northfield Public Schools’ district office, which has facilitated excellent relationships between departmental directors and has created a strong and collegial environment. He led the redesign of the district’s principal evaluation as a part of the Minnesota Department of Education pilot program, along with co-facilitating the district’s Teacher Development and Evaluation committee. Additionally, Dr. Hillmann has played a key role in leading the Transformational Technology initiative, which is focused on customizing student learning and has provided approximately 2,800 students in grades 4-12 with an iPad. He is also leading the district’s master facilities planning process.

“Matt has done an excellent job of providing leadership for the two central office positions he has held. He has provided excellent oversight and insight into the finance, personnel, evaluation, instructional technology, operations and maintenance, and child nutrition needs of the district,” said Northfield Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Chris Richardson. “I believe Matt has demonstrated excellent skills and the potential to continue to do great things as a district administrator in Northfield. His skills, however, are not restricted to our district. His passion and commitment coupled with his talents and skills have allowed him to serve as a role model for MASA colleagues across the state.”

Each year, MASA recognizes members for their contribution to public education. MASA is a professional organization of Minnesota’s school leaders, including superintendents, assistant superintendents, directors of special education, and other central office administrators, as well as state department administrators, college, and university professors, and other educators throughout Minnesota dedicated to educational leadership for students.