Sponsorship | Support Educators by Arizona Alliance of Black School Educators

AzABSE Leadership Awards

Presented in Partnership with 4AZ

2026 Honorees

District Leader of the Year

Dr. Daniella Portillo Verduzco

Dr. Dani Portillo Verduzco serves as Superintendent of Roosevelt School District in South Phoenix and is a transformational leader dedicated to educational excellence, equity, and community empowerment. A first-generation immigrant from Honduras and the district’s first Latina superintendent, she brings more than 28 years of experience in public education. Prior to becoming superintendent, she served as an elementary principal for more than a decade, became the first female principal of Carl Hayden High School, and taught in Arizona State University’s bilingual education master’s program.

Since assuming the superintendency in 2023, Dr. Portillo has guided Roosevelt School District through a period of significant change while strengthening both academic achievement and organizational stability. Under her leadership, the district secured a historic $150 million bond, expanded student support services, enhanced gifted education programming, increased opportunities in athletics and the arts, and invested in salary increases for all employee groups. Known for her collaborative, relationship-centered leadership, Dr. Portillo is committed to developing future leaders and ensuring that every student has access to an excellent education, every employee has the opportunity to grow, and every family feels valued as a partner in student success.

Dr. Daniella Portillo Verduzco receives the 2026 District Leader of the Year Award during the AzABSE Leadership Awards Ceremony.

School Leader of the Year

Angela West

Angela West is a visionary educational leader with 30 years of experience advancing student achievement, promoting equity, and transforming school communities. As Principal of East Valley Academy, she successfully led the school’s improvement from a C-rated to an A-rated campus in just two years while increasing its College and Career Ready Index to a perfect score. Known for her data-driven leadership and commitment to continuous improvement, Mrs. West has implemented innovative practices that strengthen teaching, improve student outcomes, and foster a culture of accountability and collaboration. Her leadership is grounded in empathy, high expectations, and a belief in the potential of every student. Through mentorship, culturally responsive practices, and a relentless focus on excellence, Mrs. West continues to inspire educators and create opportunities for students to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

Angela West receives the 2026 School Leader of the Year Award during the AzABSE Leadership Awards Ceremony.

Teacher Leader of the Year

Cedric Collins

Cedric Collins is a dedicated educator, mentor, and advocate whose commitment to student success extends far beyond the classroom. During his 12 years as a high school educator, he has built a reputation for fostering meaningful relationships, creating inclusive learning environments, and empowering students to reach their full potential. In addition to his work in the classroom, he serves on the Kyrene School District Governing Board, where he advocates for strong public schools, family engagement, and equitable opportunities for all learners. A three-time VFW Teacher of the Year recipient and recipient of the Save Our Schools School Board Member of the Year Award, Mr. Collins is recognized for his leadership, educational excellence, and service to Arizona’s students and communities. Guided by service, integrity, and innovation, he continues to inspire students and strengthen communities across Arizona.

Cedric Collins receives the 2026 Teacher Leader of the Year Award during the 12th Annual AzABSE Teacher Leadership Summit.

Higher Education Leader of the Year

Dr. Jessica Manzone

Dr. Jessica Manzone is an Associate Professor of Teaching in the College of Education at Northern Arizona University and serves as lead faculty for the Arizona Teacher Residency. Through her leadership, she prepares and mentors future educators while strengthening the teacher pipeline across Arizona. As Co-Principal Investigator and Co-Project Director of a five-year U.S. Department of Education Innovation Research grant, Dr. Manzone is advancing research on relationship-based teacher residencies that support teacher effectiveness and retention. Recognized for her commitment to educator development, mentorship, and innovative teacher preparation, she empowers emerging educators to become confident, collaborative, and equity-minded leaders in their schools and communities.

Dr. Jessica Manzone receives the 2026 Higher Education Leader of the Year Award during the 12th Annual AzABSE Teacher Leadership Summit.

Congratulations to the 2026 AzABSE Leadership Award recipients. We celebrate your leadership, service, and unwavering commitment to advancing educational excellence across Arizona.

2026 Leadership Award Finalists

AzABSE recognizes these exceptional educational leaders whose dedication and impact earned them recognition as finalists for the 2026 Leadership Awards.