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From her earliest days as superintendent of the Sumner-Bonney Lake School District, Dr. Laurie Dent has led with a clear belief: Every student matters, every student is capable, and every student deserves to graduate ready for a promising future. That belief has shaped not only the district’s culture and strategic direction, but also a communications approach rooted in transparency, trust and authentic engagement.
“Dr. Dent understands that public education succeeds only when communication is intentional, transparent and deeply rooted in authentic relationships,” said Marilee Hill-Anderson, director of community engagement for the district. “Her strategic clarity, unwavering presence and commitment to two-way engagement have strengthened trust across the Sumner-Bonney Lake community and positioned the district for long-term success.”
Dr. Dent’s leadership reflects the ideas championed by Bob Grossman: that communication is not simply part of leadership but leadership itself. Throughout her tenure, she has elevated communication as a strategic leadership tool, strengthening partnerships with students, families, staff and the broader community while building systems designed to sustain trust and engagement.
Under Dr. Dent’s leadership, the district developed a strategic plan centered around a shared promise to “know, value and support every student.” She also launched the “Strong Minds, Kind Hearts” initiative, reinforcing the district’s commitment to both academic excellence and a culture where students feel seen, supported and connected.
Dr. Dent’s commitment to transparent, community-centered communication has earned both statewide and national recognition. In 2024, she was named Washington State Superintendent of the Year and was previously recognized as one of NSPRA’s Superintendents to Watch.
One of the clearest examples of her leadership came through the district’s successful 2024 bond effort, which resulted in the largest school construction bond in Washington state history. Rather than simply asking voters for support, Dr. Dent and her team created opportunities for genuine dialogue and understanding through facility tours, presentations, advisory groups and extensive community outreach.
Her communication leadership was equally visible during the COVID-19 pandemic, when Dr. Dent prioritized consistent messaging, internal alignment and direct engagement with families and staff during a period of uncertainty. Parent advisory groups met weekly over Zoom, and systems were rapidly developed to ensure every student had access to technology, meals and support services.
Dr. Dent’s leadership style is deeply relational. She actively participates in student, parent and community advisory councils and maintains strong partnerships with civic leaders, law enforcement and community organizations. Colleagues and community members describe her as highly visible, approachable and intentional about listening first.
That leadership was especially meaningful during a period of uncertainty and concern related to immigration enforcement within parts of the community. After hearing directly from families and staff members, Dr. Dent chose to spend time at a community cultural festival simply to be present, listen and reassure families that they were supported and valued. Her presence strengthened trust and reinforced the district’s commitment to every family it serves.
Through strategic vision, authentic engagement and a steadfast commitment to communication as leadership, Dr. Laurie Dent has cultivated a district culture where students, staff, families and community members feel informed, valued and connected. Her leadership continues to demonstrate how purposeful, transparent communication can strengthen not only school systems, but entire communities.
Nominations for the 2027 award will open in January 2027.
The Bob Grossman Leadership in School Communications Award is given annually to a practicing superintendent or CEO of a school district, education agency or service center in recognition of outstanding leadership in school public relations and communications. This award is given in memory of Robert L. Grossman, ASPR, an NSPRA past president who believed that the support and commitment of our top education leaders is vital to successful school communication. The award is presented during the NSPRA Awards Celebration and Dinner at the NSPRA National Seminar, and the recipient receives a registration to the Seminar and lodging for one night.
Eligible nominees must be a practicing superintendent/CEO of a public school district or education agency (i.e., county office of education), association, service center, intermediate unit, or BOCES. NSPRA membership is not required for nomination. Current NSPRA Executive Board members and NSPRA staff are ineligible for nomination.
A nomination must include a current vita/resume for the nominee and at least two letters of support related to the nominee's leadership in the area of school public relations and communications. It must also include an explanation of why the nominee should be considered for the award and examples of how the nominee meets the selection criteria.
As part of the selection process, a selection committee will consider whether the nominee:
The current year Grossman Award winner will receive:
The award winner also will be invited to present a Skill Session during the Seminar as well as particpate in on a judging panel for the next year's Bob Grossman Leadership in School Communications Award and Presidents Award.
For more information, contact NSPRA at awards@nspra.org or 301-519-0496.
View a complete list of previous award recipients.