2025 Entrepreneurial President of the Year Award
NACCE's Highest Individual Honor
2023 Entrepreneurial President of the Year Chancellor Lee Lambert of the Foothill-De Anza Community College District presents the 2024 Entrepreneurial President of the Year award to Kelli Chaney, President of the Tennessee College of Applied Technology at Knoxville, in recognition of her exceptional leadership and commitment to entrepreneurship in education.
Award Purpose:
The Entrepreneurial President of the Year Award is NACCE’s highest individual honor for presidential leadership. Presented annually at the NACCE conference, this award recognizes a community college president or chancellor who exemplifies entrepreneurial leadership and innovation in higher education.
The awardee will have demonstrated exceptional commitment to NACCE’s mission—advancing entrepreneurial mindset and innovative action in classrooms, on campuses, and in communities—to elevate prosperity for all.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Must be a current president or chancellor of a NACCE member institution.
- Must have signed the Presidents for Entrepreneurship Pledge (PFEP).
- Must demonstrate a minimum of two years of entrepreneurial leadership in their current role
Evaluation Criteria (Each Weighted at 25%)
1. Entrepreneurial Leadership & PFEP Implementation
The nominee has shown visionary leadership in implementing the five action steps of the Presidents for Entrepreneurship Pledge, creating new opportunities for innovation, collaboration, and student success.
2. Institutional Culture & Mission Alignment
The nominee fosters a culture of innovation and entrepreneurial mindset throughout their institution and demonstrates a strong alignment with NACCE’s mission to uplift communities through education and entrepreneurship.
3. Community, Student & Economic Impact
The nominee’s leadership has resulted in measurable improvements in student outcomes, local economic development, workforce alignment, and community partnerships that drive opportunity and equity.
4. Strategic Partnerships & Advocacy
The nominee has developed strategic partnerships, secured resources to sustain entrepreneurial initiatives, and served as a vocal advocate for entrepreneurship in higher education and for NACCE’s national network.
Nomination Requirements:
- Completed nomination form
- President’s or chancellor’s biography (70 words)
- Two letters of support (optional)