CEC Awards and Related Programs
At the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC), we know special educators rarely receive the overwhelming appreciation they deserve.
From groundbreaking research to exemplary teaching practices, our award programs are a chance to celebrate the educators—and students—who are making a difference in special education.
Contact information for questions about any of the award categories can be found in the relevant section below.
Nominations for CEC’s 2026 Professional Awards are now open. The deadline for nominations in all seven award categories is September 1, 2025. Learn more below.
Professional Awards
Our Professional Awards recognize CEC members who have advanced the field and the quality of special education services, contributed to research, supported pre-service students, or served CEC at the unit, division, and/or national level.
Yes I Can Awards
The Yes I Can Awards recognize the accomplishments of children and youth with exceptionalities (ages 3-21) in six categories: Academics, Arts, School and Community Activities, Self-Advocacy, Technology, and Transition.
Student Awards
Our Student Awards recognize CEC student members who have made outstanding contributions to the organization and to children with exceptionalities.
The CEC Impact Award
The CEC Impact Award recognizes an individual or community/corporate organization that has had an impact on CEC’s strategic work.
Legacy Proclamations
CEC Legacy Proclamations honor outstanding CEC members who have led and notably contributed to The Council’s various components (chapters, units, divisions, subdivisions), and national governing bodies and have significantly influenced the field throughout a lifelong career.
CEC’s Diversity Leadership Academy
The Diversity Leadership Academy is a substantive professional development program established for special education professionals who share a commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the field of special education.
Racial Justice Grant
The CEC's Racial Justice Grant encourages and supports work focused on addressing the issues related to the ongoing racial disparities in educational experiences, opportunities, and outcomes for individuals with disabilities from minoritized racial groups.