Awards

Minnesota School Office Professional of the Year

The MASSP Office Professional of the Year Award was developed to honor and recognize an often unrecognized but key position within the educational community, the office professional. MASSP started recognizing these key individuals in 2010. The office professional is nominated by their administrator in the fall and the winner is honored at the MASSP Winter Conference Banquet in January.

Kelsey Deschene

Warren-Alvarado-Oslo High School

Kelsey Deschene, Administrative Assistant at Warren-Alvarado-Oslo High School (WAO), has been named MASSP Office Professional of the Year for her exceptional office management, community service, and dedication to her school. For nearly a decade, Kelsey has been the heart of WAO, supporting students, parents, staff, and teachers with her tireless work ethic, problem-solving skills, and positive attitude. Praised by colleagues, students, and parents for her professionalism, warmth, and unwavering support, Kelsey is seen as the “glue” that holds the school together. Her recognition highlights the profound impact she has made on the WAO community, where she is considered both a mentor and a role model.”

Application Process

Selection Criteria/Eligibility:

• Nominee must have at least 5 years of service in a school office.
• Nominee must be a current member of MASOP.
• Nominator must be a current member of MASSP or MESPA.

Letters of recommendation from:
• You – the Nominator
• District Staff Member
• Student

A selection panel will choose the Minnesota School Office Professional of the Year and the winner will be honored at the MASSP Winter Conference Banquet. The administrator who nominated the recipient will have the honor of introducing the award winner.

  • 2024-2025: Kelsey Deschen – Warren-Alvarado-Oslo High School
  • 2023-2024: Grace Kubesh – Mora High School
  • 2022-2023: Lisa Merritt – Ortonville High School
  • 2021-2022: Becky Revering – Parkers Prairie Secondary School
  • 2020-2021: Tammy Mohn – Lakeville South High School

Administrator of the Year Award

The MASOP Administrator of the Year Award was developed to honor an administrator who exemplifies dedication and innovative leadership in the State of Minnesota.  This award was developed by MASOP members starting in 1998.

Stacy Hinz

Principal of Yellow Medicine East

2024-2025 Administrator of the Year

Mrs. Stacy Hinz, the dedicated and compassionate Principal of Yellow Medicine East Middle/High School. Stacy is the epitome of an exceptional leader—kind, compassionate, and unwavering in her commitment to both students and staff. Her leadership is not merely a role but a calling, one that she has embraced with her whole heart.

Stacy is not just a principal—she is a light in the darkness, a critical thinker, and a visionary leader. She was our saving grace when we needed her most, and she continues to inspire and uplift everyone around her. There is no one more deserving of the title “Administrator of the Year.”

Krystle Enninga, MASOP Member

Kristin Klassen, MASOP Member

Application Process

Selection Criteria/Eligibility:

• Nominee must have at least 5 years of service in a school office.
• Nominee must be a current member of MASOP.
• Nominator must be a current member of MASSP or MESPA.

Letters of recommendation from:
• You – the Nominator
• District Staff Member
• Student

A selection panel will choose the Minnesota School Office Professional of the Year and the winner will be honored at the MASSP Winter Conference Banquet. The administrator who nominated the recipient will have the honor of introducing the award winner.

  • 2023-2024 – Damian Patnode, Milaca High School
  • 2022-2023 – Brian Nutter, North Junior High School, St. Cloud
  • 2021-2022 – Susan Knutson, West Central Area Secondary, Barrett
  • 2020-2021 – Rob Bach, Stillwater Area High School
  • 2019-2020 – Scott Hanson, Lakeview High School