January 1, 2025

AESA Honors Naomi Norman with 2024 Women of Inspiration in Leadership Award

By Claire Sowder, Communications and Marketing Coordinator at AESA

The Association of Educational Service Agencies (AESA) is proud to announce Naomi Norman,Superintendent of the Washtenaw Intermediate School District (WISD) in Michigan, as the recipient of the 2024 Women of Inspiration in Leadership Award.

Norman’s career is marked by visionary leadership and a steadfast commitment to equity and innovation in education. She became WISD’s first female superintendent during the COVID-19pandemic, earning a "highly effective" rating for her leadership. Her groundbreaking initiatives, including the Paraprofessional-to-Teacher Pilot Program and Talent Together, have addressedMichigan’s educator shortage by creating pathways for paraprofessionals and aspiring teachers to earn certifications, diversifying the teaching workforce.

Norman’s influence extends beyond students. At WISD, 67% of the executive team and 81% of the broader leadership are women, reflecting her dedication to mentoring and empowering women in leadership. Her work promoting equity, inclusion, and social justice has transformed WISD’s values and decision-making processes, creating a more inclusive environment for all. 

"Naomi strives to transform the educational system and she does it with intention by leveraging systems and lifting up women leaders around her," Diane Hockett, President of the Washtenaw ISD Board said. "She dreams big, seeks innovative solutions, and welcomes others to the table all so our educational systems do better for the students, families, and educators we serve."

A national leader, Norman was also recently recognized as a 2023-24 Google GSV Education InnovationFellow, and Talent Together was named a 2024 Top 10 Finalist at the ASU+GSV Summit for innovation in education. Now, with the AESA Women of Inspiration in Leadership Award, Norman continues to receive well-deserved recognition for her outstanding contributions to the field.

Congratulations to Naomi Norman for her outstanding contributions to education and leadership!

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Non Discrimination Information

ADA and Title IX CoordinatorADA and Title IX Coordinator
Brian Marcel
Associate Superintendent
1819 S. Wagner Road 
Ann Arbor, MI  48103
(734) 994-8100 ext. 1402		Cassandra Harmon-Higgins
Executive Director, HR & Legal Services
1819 S. Wagner Road 
Ann Arbor, MI  48103
(734) 994-8100 ext. 1311