We are proud to celebrate the accomplishments of our district and school leaders from the 2025-2026 school year with our annual ASCEND: A Leadership Summit for Excellence.
Presented by Aiken County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Corey Murphy, these awards are uniquely shaped around his core leadership priorities for the District. These honors recognize outstanding achievement across five strategic goal categories: Instructional Leadership; Quality Personnel; a Culture of Achievement; Organizational, Operational, and Resource Management; and Communication and Community Relationships.
These administrators were chosen because they truly exemplify the District's goals in action, bringing the vision for Aiken County Public Schools to life through their daily dedication and leadership.
Excellence for All Award: Michelle Kennedy, Principal of A.L. Corbett Middle School
Data-Driven Excellence Award: Dr. Jennifer Kolmar, Principal of Silver Bluff High School
Creating the Village Award: Kristie Brooks, Principal of Aiken Elementary School
Commitment to Teamwork Award: Lisa Fallaw, Principal of East Aiken School of the Arts
Rising Leader Award: Jacque Osteen, Principal of Millbrook Elementary
Whole Child Advocate Award: Tami Shaffer, Assistant Principal of South Aiken High School
The Julie Revelle Leadership Legacy Award: Paige Day, Principal of Highland Springs Middle School
Shield of Safety Award: Mr. Kyle Davis, Assistant Principal of Byrd Elementary School
Beyond the School Walls Award: Dr. Devone McKie, Assistant Principal of Leavelle McCampbell Middle School
Telling our Story Award: Casey Rogers, Principal of North Augusta High School
Congratulations to each of this year's District Leadership Winners for their outstanding commitment to the students, staff, and families of Aiken County.
