Every day, Head Start changes lives—thanks to dedicated educators, inspiring parents, passionate alumni, and innovative programs. NHSA’s scholarships and awards honor those who go above and beyond and helping them advance in school, careers, and community reach.
Scholarships and Awards applications are now closed. Mark your calendars for November 15!
KEY 2025/26 DATES
November 15 – Applications open.
January 9– Nominations are due.
February – NHSA notifies awardees.
April/May – National Head Start Conference Scholarship and Awards Ceremony (Honorees attend in person at their own expense)
All nominating Head Start/Early Head Start grantees must have an active NHSA membership.
Edward Zigler Innovation Award
Recognizes local Head Start/Early Head Start grantees who are partnering to create high-impact services for children and families.
Learn More and Apply
Sargent Shriver Excellence in Community Service Award
Honors grantees that have made significant achievements in poverty alleviation, early education, or community health.
Learn More and Apply
Vanessa Rich Leadership Award
Honors a new Head Start/Early Head Start program director with three or fewer years of service.
Learn More and Apply
Ron Herndon Head Start Parent Scholarship
Supports Head Start parents who mobilize others to create meaningful change in their programs and communities.
Learn More and Apply
Aubrey Puckett Memorial Award
Celebrates a Head Start alumna, alumnus, or parent now working for a Head Start or Early Head Start grantee.
Learn More and Apply
Alumni Scholarship Award
A merit award for graduating high school seniors who attended Head Start, supporting the next leg of their educational journey.
Learn More and Apply
Related:
* Donate to the Scholarship and Awards fund.
NHSA Scholarship and Award recipients serve as models and ambassadors for the Head Start community. Recipients will be encouraged to share successful strategies with others during NHSA conferences, institutes, and gatherings.
NHSA board members, staff, and family members are ineligible.Enter Content Here
Nominations must be approved by your Regional Association, the National Migrant and Seasonal Head Start Association, or the National Indian Head Start Directors Association.
A nomination letter from your nominating association– on letterhead– is required.. The letter shall state your nomination, the award you are applying for, and their support of your nomination.
Applicants must be affiliated with a current NHSA member program.
For the Sargent Shriver Excellence in Community Service Award and the Edward Zigler Innovation Award, both a Head Start grant recipient and a community partner are required.
Only one nomination per person/program per year. Local member programs may not nominate more than one person or program.
Applications must be submitted online. Incomplete applications will not be considered; nominees will be contacted primarily via email.
Awardees must provide the necessary information to redeem cash awards and agree to publicity.