The North Carolina School Superintendents' Association (NCSSA) has announced the selection of Dr. Aaron Allen, Superintendent of Lincoln County Schools, as the recipient of the Dr. Brad Sneeden Leadership Award. The award is presented in honor and recognition of a superintendent who has demonstrated a strong commitment to lifelong learning, unwavering integrity in leadership, and transformation of vision into action.

This annual award is presented to a graduate of the North Carolina School Superintendents' Associations’ Superintendent Executive Leadership Development Program, a program that is designed to empower transformational education leaders for North Carolina’s public schools. Dr. Allen was selected by former Brad Sneeden Leadership Award recipients.

The award is named in honor of Dr. Brad Sneeden, who was serving as Carteret County Schools' Superintendent at the time of his death in October, 2008 at the age of 56. Among the innovative efforts he brought to this district was the establishment of the Marine Science Academy, later renamed as a memorial to him, which exposes students to hands-on marine science activities.

Previously, Dr. Sneeden served as the Associate Vice-President for Leadership Development and Director of the Principals' Executive Program, the Deputy State Superintendent for the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction and State Board of Education, an adjunct professor with the Department of Educational Leadership, and Director of the Office of School Services at East Carolina University, and as the Craven County Schools' Superintendent. Dr. Sneeden led with innovation and vision in preparing administrators for visionary leadership while never wavering from ethics of the highest order.

“I am extremely humbled and surprised to have received this recognition,” stated Dr. Allen. “Lincoln County has allowed me to vision, dream, and take bold steps toward leading with growth and possibilities in mind. Our Board of Education has supported our team throughout the years to allow calculated risks to pay off for our students. Our District staff are second to none and compliment each other well and always seek what is best for kids first. I am fortunate to be able to lead this school system. Thanks to NCSSA for this opportunity to shine a light on LCS and highlight the great work being accomplished for the benefit of our community.” 

“The Lincoln County Board of Education proudly congratulates Dr. Allen on this well-earned recognition. Dr. Allen embodies a rare combination of vision, heart, and courage, consistently championing bold initiatives while ensuring every decision is grounded in the best interests of our students and staff. The culture of Lincoln County Schools has been transformed through Dr. Allen’s unwavering commitment to cultivating the leadership potential at every level of our school community, beginning with the earliest learners to the dedicated staff that fosters their success. This recognition is a testament to his positive impact and steadfast leadership,” said Christina H. Sutton, Chairperson, Lincoln County Board of Education.

In selecting the award winner, the following criteria were considered:

• Demonstrates vision and the ability to translate vision into specific goals. The recipient should be a person whose leadership has resulted in his or her district developing and/or implementing innovative programs and projects to benefit students.
  

• Demonstrates a strong commitment to life-long learning, focusing on the continuous improvement of his or her leadership skills.

  
  

• Demonstrate evidence of setting and achieving high standards of ethical conduct within his or her organization.

“Dr. Aaron Allen has served as superintendent of the Lincoln County Schools for 4.5 years. He participates in the NCSSA Superintendent Executive Leadership Program, is a member of the NCSSA Executive Board and was the Southwest Education Alliance Superintendent of the Year in 2024. He exemplifies the traits that guided Dr. Brad Sneeden's career in educational leadership. He has demonstrated a vision for Lincoln County Schools as an educational innovator and a strong commitment to continuous improvement and the highest standards of ethical conduct. He is a very deserving recipient of this award,” stated Jack Hoke, NCSSA Executive Director.

Congratulations to Dr. Allen on this well-deserved recognition!