Celebrating Excellence Across Our 2025 Global Training Summits
The Dr. Mary M. Keller Award, Pete Taylor Partnership of Excellence Awards, and Student 2 Student® (S2S®) Team of the Year Awards were presented through special video features during both the Atlanta and Austin Global Training Summits, allowing participants in each location to celebrate the remarkable achievements of this year’s honorees together.
These awards reflect the heart of MCEC’s mission—honoring research, partnership, and student leadership that make a lasting difference in the lives of military-connected children and families. Congratulations to all of our 2025 award recipients!
Dr. Mary M. Keller Award for Distinguished Contributions to Science
This award honors groundbreaking research and innovation that strengthen understanding and support for military-connected children and families. The 2025 award recognized Dr. Stephen Cozza for his pioneering research at the Center for the Study of Traumatic Stress, which has guided national approaches to trauma-informed care and resilience in schools and military communities. The award continues the legacy of Dr. Mary M. Keller, MCEC’s founding president, whose vision bridges science, service, and compassion for every military child.
Pete Taylor Partnership of Excellence Awards
The Pete Taylor Partnership of Excellence Awards recognize outstanding collaboration among schools, installations, and communities that go above and beyond to support military-connected students. Named for Lt. Gen. H.G. “Pete” Taylor, USA (Ret.), the award reflects his belief that “goodness starts at the local level.” The 2025 honorees exemplify that spirit through sustained partnerships that strengthen transitions, academic achievement, and belonging across military and civilian education systems.
Student 2 Student® (S2S®) Team of the Year Awards
The the S2S® Team of the Year Awards honor exceptional student leadership and the peer-to-peer connection that defines MCEC’s Student 2 Student® program. Four teams — elementary, middle, high school, and elite — were recognized for their creativity, compassion, and commitment to making every new student feel at home. These student ambassadors demonstrate how service, empathy, and friendship create lasting impact in schools and communities worldwide.
