About AIU
The AIU is extremely proud of the accomplishments of its employees, programs and divisions. Below are just a few of the recognitions and awards that our caring and compassionate staff have recently received.
2024 Apple Award
Joe Trecki
Joe Trecki, a counselor in the AIU's Non-Public Schools Program, is the recipient of the 2024 Apple Award. The award is presented to a K-12 professional in the AIU’s Non-Public Schools Program who demonstrates superior contributions, commitment and the highest level of support as an AIU ambassador. Joe was honored for his wealth of knowledge and his willingness to be a resource for his colleagues. He puts his students and staff first, and is exceptional at providing help to anyone in need.
2024 Annie Sullivan Award
Amanda McMillen
Amanda McMillen, a teacher at Mon Valley School, is the recipient of the 2024 Annie Sullivan Award. The honor acknowledges McMillen’s dedication and efforts to promote and champion the needs of individuals with disabilities and to promote disability awareness in the community. Named for Helen Keller’s teacher and friend, the Annie Sullivan Award recognizes an educator who goes above and beyond her or his professional duties to facilitate acceptance of people with disabilities in school and the community. Amanda was recognized for her commitment to both the vocational program at Mon Valley and a number of activities in the school.
2024 Award of Excellence
Shawna Ricci
Shawna Ricci, was presented with the Award of Excellence, given each year to an employee in the AIU’s Alternative Education Program. Shawna was nominated by her peers for being a supportive teammate and creating a positive work climate. Her peers described her as calm, clear, and empathetic in her dealings with students, noting she strives for the best outcomes with them.
2024 World of Gratitude Award
Michael Reed
Michael Reed, a teacher in the AIU's English as a Second Language (ESL) Program, is the recipient of the 2024 World of Gratitude Award. The award is presented to a K-12 ESL professional for demonstrating an exemplary level of professionalism and dedication to students and staff while displaying leadership, expertise and compassion. Michael is a supportive member of the program and is always willing to support colleagues and help them grow as teachers. He always advocates for his peers and represents the program as a true professional and collaborator.
2024 Helping Hands Award
Cathy Hannah Hanbury
Cathy Hannah Hanbury, a paraprofessional at Mon Valley School, is the recipient of the 2024 Helping Hands Award. The award acknowledges an employee who goes beyond their required duties to enrich the lives of the students they serve. Hannah assists in a number of activities at Mon Valley, including the talent show, prom, open house events, Mess Fest and other festivities. She always works with gratitude and kindness, and her colleagues described her as "awesome and incredible."
2024 Heart of a Hero Award
Mary Jo Kanzic
Mary Jo Kanzic, a Head Start teacher, was awarded the Allegheny County Head Start Association's Heart of a Hero Award, given to the individual who exceeds expectations for the nomination because of their dedication to the program. This employee goes above and beyond for their children and the families in the Early Head Start Program. Mary Jo was recognized her passion to support the Head Start Program. She works tirelessly for her students and their families, and her experience enhances their lives every day.
2024 Mission Possible Award
The Mission Possible Award is presented to AIU employees who have exhibited a positive and influential impact on their work environment, overcame an obstacle or fostered cooperation and collaboration in their work group, all while carrying out their responsibilities.
The work of Mission Possible Award honrees demonstrates excellence in supporting the AIU’s core mission of advocating and advancing equitable opportunities for every learner. These staff members exemplify going above and beyond to complete a mission.
The winners of the 2024 Mission Possible Awards are:
- Craig Sinning – Teaching & Learning
- Jeanette Casciato – Early Childhood, Family & Community Services
- Mindy Robbins – Special Education & Pupil Services
- Karen McCamey – Internal Services