The New York State Association for Women in Administration (NYSAWA) is proud to announce the recipients of the 2026 Administrator Scholarship: Deanna James-Hughes, Hudson City School District and Jacqueline Fama, Dutchess BOCES.
Launched in 2025, the scholarship was created to support women educators across New York state who are pursuing leadership roles in education. The response to the program was immediate and inspiring—filled with applications from women who are not only committed to their students, but also to growing as leaders in their districts and communities.
From that impressive group, Deanna and Jacqueline stood out for their clarity of purpose, their deep commitment to educational equity, and their drive to create meaningful change.
Both recipients will be recognized at this year’s NYSAWA Conference in Ithaca, where their accomplishments—and their futures—will be celebrated alongside a community of women leaders from across the state.
“This program reflects our ongoing dedication to strengthening and supporting women’s leadership in education,” said Dr. Aurelia Henriquez, NYSAWA Scholarship Committee Chair. “Deanna and Jacqueline exemplify the next generation of leaders who will help shape equitable and impactful schools across New York.”
This scholarship represents more than recognition; it’s a reflection of NYSAWA’s belief in the power of women to lead boldly, create equitable systems, and inspire the next generation. Deanna and Jacqueline are already doing that—and we can’t wait to see what comes next.