Educational Leadership Alumni Awards
The Department of Educational Leadership annually recognizes former students who have distinguished themselves in their field by addressing racially predictable disparities and advancing equity. Alumni of any degree, licensure, or certificate program in the Department of Educational Leadership at Minnesota State University, Mankato, may be nominated.
There are two types of awards. Graduates may be nominated for the Ascending Alumni Award—given to a graduate who earned a degree, license, or certificate from the Department of Educational Leadership at Minnesota State University, Mankato, within the past seven years—or the Distinguished Alumni Award, which recognizes a graduate who earned a degree, license, or certificate from the department more than seven years ago.
The Ascending Alumni and Distinguished Alumni awards are presented annually at the Leading Courageously for Racial Equity Conference in February.
Ascending Alumni 2026 Awardee
communities. As the principal of a highly diverse elementary school serving 17% White and 83% students of color, Brooke has intentionally led the creation of inclusive systems that uplift every learner. Under Brooke’s leadership, the school culture shifted from the lowest-rated in the district to the best—an accomplishment rooted in student supports, staff empowerment, and deep community partnerships. In just one year under her leadership, chronic absenteeism decreased by 10%, and English Learner scores increased by more than 3%. These gains reflect Brooke’s unwavering belief that culturally responsive leadership and strong relationships drive academic success. She also strengthened community connections by creating a Community Resource Fair, bringing together local organizations to provide families with access to housing, food, employment, and mental health supports. This initiative has become a cornerstone of the school’s commitment to whole-child and whole-family success. A reflective and racially conscious leader, Brooke consistently engages staff in equity-centered professional learning and data analysis to eliminate racially predictable disparities. Through courage, compassion, and results-driven leadership, she has modeled how transformative, inclusive leadership can truly change outcomes for children and communities.Ascending Alumni 2025 Awardee
Aisha Abdi, originally from Kenya, is currently enrolled in the doctoral (Ed.D.) program in Educational Leadership. She previously completed her master’s degree and obtained a graduate certificate in racially conscious schools and systems leadership in the Department of Educational Leadership.
Aisha chose Minnesota State University, Mankato, because she believed it would provide her with the academic and personal growth needed for future success. As a dedicated mother and the first in her family to attend college, she made the difficult decision to pursue her studies while being apart from her daughter, hoping to inspire her with her achievements.
Professionally, Aisha is a committed educator focused on developing every child, particularly those from minority ethnic groups. She is passionate about education, considers herself a lifelong learner, and continuously seeks to stay updated with education trends.
Distinguished Alumni 2025 Awardee
Dr. Mymique Baxter is the principal and director, as well as a licensed administrator, at Kato Public Charter School in Mankato, Minnesota.
Dr. Baxter graduated from North High School in Minneapolis and later attended Tuskegee University, where she earned a bachelor's degree in animal and poultry sciences. After graduation, she enrolled at Minnesota State University, Mankato, to pursue several graduate degrees, earning a Master of Environmental Science, a Master of Arts in Teaching, a specialist degree, and a doctorate in educational leadership and administration.
Under Dr. Baxter’s leadership, Kato Public Charter School strives to provide a brave environment where students are actively engaged in their education.
Explore the various degree, licensure, and graduate certificate programs the Department of Educational Leadership offers.
