By Educational Service Unit 13
SCOTTSBLUFF, Neb. ー The Nebraska State Association of Secondary School Principals (NSASSP) has named Julie Downing, Ed.D., of Chadron, Professional Learning Coordinator for Educational Service Unit 13 (ESU 13), as the recipient of the recently announced 2025 Friend of NSASSP Award.
The Friend of NSASSP Award honors individuals who demonstrate outstanding leadership and an unwavering commitment to supporting secondary school administrators and advancing quality education at both the local and state levels. The committee recognized Dr. Downing for her long-standing dedication to educators—particularly in Region 5—and her meaningful impact on instructional leadership, professional growth, and system-wide improvement.
Dr. Downing has been a steadfast champion for teachers and administrators throughout her career. Through her leadership in instructional and evaluation models, mentorship of new and aspiring administrators, and facilitation of professional development opportunities, she has helped strengthen school leadership across multiple districts. Her work with the S.E.E.D. model has had a lasting influence, supporting districts in building strong, sustainable systems of continuous improvement.
Colleagues consistently note Dr. Downing’s willingness to go above and beyond—often volunteering her own time to guide and support school leaders as they navigate the complexities of the principalship. Her guidance, collaboration, and deep commitment to public education have made a meaningful difference in school communities across Nebraska.
The Friend of NSASSP Award is presented annually to an individual or group nominated from an NSASSP region who has rendered outstanding and unselfish service to the association and who has contributed significantly to quality education at both the state and local levels. Nominees are reviewed by a committee composed of the State Coordinator, past regional presidents and a NARSA representative.
Dr. Downing was formally recognized and presented with a plaque at the annual NSASSP State Conference.
NSASSP is committed to the improvement of secondary education through leadership, research, advocacy and collaboration. The association is affiliated with the Nebraska Council of School Administrators (NCSA) and the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) and works to support the status and welfare of secondary school principals statewide.
Please join us in congratulating Dr. Julie Downing, the 2025 Friend of NSASSP Award recipient.