Heritage University awarded prestigious WASA award for its impact on public education in Washington
Dr. Rick Cole, associate professor of the Heritage University Education Administration Program and Dr. Andrew Sund, president of Heritage accept the D.A. Davidson Barbara Mertens Legacy Award given to Heritage University during the Washington Association of School Administrators (WASA) awards ceremony in Spokane, Wash. on June 24, 2024. First three from left to right, Dr. Cole, Joel Aune, executive director, WASA. Dr. Sund. Second to right is Hannah Bulla, Public Finance Associate, DA Davidson (award co-sponsor), and farthest right is Mike Villarreal, WASA President and Superintendent Hoquiam School District.
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Heritage University awarded prestigious WASA award for its impact on public education in Washington
Toppenish, Wash. – The Washington Association of School Administrators (WASA) honored Heritage University with the D.A. Davidson Barbara Mertens Legacy Award. Dr. Rick Cole, associate professor of the Education Administration Program at Heritage and Dr. Andrew Sund, president of Heritage University, accepted the award on behalf of the university during the 44th annual WASA Honorary Award Luncheon in Spokane, Wash.
The D.A. Davidson Barbara Mertens Legacy Award recognizes an individual or group who has had a significant impact on public education in Washington and a legacy that has a lasting influence. Dr. Sund said while this prestigious award is in recognition of the university’s work, it is largely a testament to the work of Dr. Cole and his colleague, Dr. Ken Bergevin, Chair of the Education Administration Program, and their contributions to education and exemplary service to the community. “Their vision, commitment and tireless efforts have not only shaped the lives of countless students but have also helped to pave the way for the next generation of school leaders in the Yakima Valley,” said Dr. Sund.
Dr. Melissa Hill, Provost and VP of Academic Affairs at Heritage said Dr. Bergevin and Dr. Rick Cole have been instrumental in helping Heritage achieve this recognition. “The collective efforts of Dr. Bergevin and Dr. Cole have made a significant impact on the educational landscape of our region, and we are truly grateful for their collaborative spirit and dedication to serving the needs of school districts in our region,” said Dr. Hill.
The 44th annual WASA Honorary Award Luncheon was held in Spokane, Wash. on June 24, 2024. For more information, please contact Davidson Mance, media relations coordinator at (509) 969-6084 or mance_d@heritage.edu.
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