The Indian Hill School District is proud to announce that Chief Communications Officer Heather Higdon has been named the 2025 National Communication & Community Engagement Award recipient by the National Association of School Superintendents (NASS). Higdon was honored during the NASS annual convention on September 10 in Chicago. The prestigious national award recognizes exceptional leaders who elevate transparency, trust, and connection between schools and the communities they serve.
“This recognition is truly a reflection of the team I am so fortunate to serve alongside every day,” said Higdon. “Our Board of Education, CEO/Superintendent Kirk Koennecke, and the entire Brave Family have been unwavering in their support and belief in setting a new vision for what school communications can be – especially by handing the mic over to our amazing students with our Student Ambassadors program. I am deeply grateful to be part of this very special community that embraces innovation and celebrates storytelling that connects, inspires, and unites.”
Indian Hill CEO/Superintendent Kirk Koennecke praised Higdon’s leadership and national achievement.
“Heather’s work has positioned Indian Hill as a model for school communications, and this conference put our district in a position of sharing a program for student storytelling like never before,” said Koennecke. “Her creativity, vision, and commitment to transparency ensure our community remains engaged and informed. This national honor is a testament to her outstanding talent and her dedication to our students, staff, and families.”
The National Association of School Superintendents serves leaders across the country by providing professional development, advocacy, and recognition for excellence in education leadership. The Communication & Community Engagement Award is presented annually to one individual who demonstrates exemplary performance in connecting schools with their communities.
This is Higdon’s second national award for her work in education communications this year; she was awarded the National School Public Relations (NSPRA) Gold Medallion Award for her creation of the Student Ambassadors Program during an awards ceremony over the summer in Washington, D.C.
Photo caption: Indian Hill School District Chief Communications Officer Heather Higdon receiving the national Communication & Community Engagement award during the annual National Association of School Superintendents awards ceremony on September 10 in Chicago.