Awards

Named in honor of Kathe Shelby, former director of the Ohio Department of Education's Office for Exceptional Children (2008-2011), the annual Leadership Award recognizes an outstanding special education leader in Ohio who demonstrates exceptional and effective skills in improving the quality of special education programming for Ohio's school children. Kathe epitomized what it meant to display initiative, influence, and respect toward children with special needs, including their parents, special and general education teachers, related services personnel, and school administrators. Kathe passed away in 2011, but recipients of the Leadership Award carry on the spirit and work of Kathe Shelby as they seek to honor her legacy.

Jill Gilliland
Special Education Director, Northwest Ohio Educational Service Center

Jill Gilliland has served in the role of Director of Special Education for the Northwest Ohio Educational Service Center for the past 10 years. Gilliland owes her success primarily to her parents’ and their love and support. She also received a top-notch K-12 education at Continental Local Schools. She earned a bachelor's degree from Miami University and master's degree focusing on special education administration at Ball State University. In 2000, she completed her Ed.S. with a focus on early childhood and special education curriculum at the University of Toledo. Gilliland began her career as a special education teacher in 1993 at Botkins Local Schools, and went on to teach students in kindergarten through ninth grade. In 2001, she transitioned into an administrative role, and has served as a special education administrator in Indiana, Tennessee, and Ohio. She is grateful to her students, their families, and her colleagues for all they’ve taught her. Gilliland believes that all students should have excellent educational opportunities and believes in supporting educators, equipping them to excel in meeting the diverse needs of their students.