FLITE Director Lisa Dieker Receives Leadership Award at 2025 CEC Special Education Convention

Lisa Dieker, Williamson Family Distinguished Professor in Special Education and director of Flexible Learning through Innovations in Technology & Education (FLITE)—a center within the Achievement & Assessment Institute—has been awarded the 2025 Romaine P. Mackie Leadership Award by the Division of Leaders and Legacy at the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) Special Education Convention & Expo. 

This prestigious award recognizes professionals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership in CEC and other organizations, with significant contributions to service delivery, teacher education and professional development, research, policy, assessment, and publications. 

With a career dedicated to advancing special education through technology, innovative teaching practices, and mentorship, Dieker has made a lasting impact on the field. Her leadership at FLITE focuses on integrating cutting-edge technology into learning environments to enhance educational opportunities for students and educators alike. 

“I am truly honored to receive the Romaine P. Mackie Leadership Award,” said Dieker. “This recognition is not just about my work but about the incredible community of educators, researchers, and students I’ve had the privilege to collaborate with. The future of special education depends on innovation and commitment and I’m grateful to be part of that movement. 

Dieker’s contributions to the field span decades, from pioneering research in special education to shaping policy and training the next generation of educators. Her influence extends beyond the university, with national and international engagements that emphasize the importance of innovation in teaching and learning. 

Neal Kingston, director of AAI, praised Dieker’s achievements, stating, “Lisa combines intellectual rigor and creativity to drive meaningful advancements in education. Her ability to bridge research and practice, particularly in the integration of technology and special education, has changed the way educators approach teaching and learning.”

The CEC Convention, the premier event for professionals in special education, brings together educators, researchers, and policymakers to share best practices and celebrate outstanding achievements in the field. 

In addition to receiving this distinguished award, Dieker also served as one of this year’s keynote speakers at the CEC Convention. She joined Eleazar "Trey" Vasquez, III, AAI Operating Officer, and James Basham, director of the Center for Innovation, Design, and Digital Learning (CIDDL) at KU, discussing the future of education and the role of innovation in creating accessible learning environments.