McCoy Award Honorees · Past Winners

Superintendent Michael Sawyers | 2025

As New Albany-Plain Local School District Superintendent, Michael embodies the values held so dear by Jeanne and John G. McCoy, who believed every student deserves an education that prepares them for future success. Serving as Superintendent since 2016, Michael has led the district to top state honors, while raising academic outcomes and the prospects of every student and protecting the fiscal stability of the school district. But it’s more than what Michael does, it’s how he does it. Those who work with Michael will tell you he leads with compassion and upholds the district values of fostering an environment of kindness, dignity and respect.

Sawyers’s leadership and service have been recognized through multiple honors, including the 2024 Exemplary Leadership Award and the 2013 Distinguished Service Award from the Buckeye Association of School Administrators (BASA), as well as the New Albany Chamber of Commerce Delta Award for Outstanding Business Leader.

The Foundation selected Sawyers not only for the positive impact he’s had on thousands of students, but also because of his engagement in the broader community. Widely viewed as a valued collaborator, passionate advocate and visionary leader, Michael works closely with the City of New Albany and Plain Township and serves in other roles such as an ex-officio member of the New Albany Chamber of Commerce, McCoy board and the Foundation’s board of trustees. He actively represents the district through service with the Ohio School Plan, BASA Communications Committee, and as a member and past President of the Central Ohio Superintendents’ Association. Sawyers also participates at the State and National levels to advocate for public education and leadership advocacy.