Congratulations to Dr. Lisa Didion and the University of Kansas Student CEC Chapter

We are thrilled to announce that Dr. Lisa Didion has been selected to receive the prestigious Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) 2026 Outstanding Student Chapter Advisor Award!

This national award recognizes up to three college/university CEC Student Chapter Advisors each year who demonstrate exceptional leadership, student engagement, and a deep commitment to advancing the field of special education. Awardees are honored for going above and beyond in supporting their student chapters and in nurturing students’ educational, personal, and professional growth.

Dr. Didion will be formally recognized at the CEC 2026 Awards & Recognition Luncheon at the annual convention in Salt Lake City, Utah.

The KU Department of Special Education celebrates Dr. Didion for revitalizing our CEC Student Chapter and creating exciting opportunities for our students—especially our undergraduates—to become the most knowledgeable, compassionate, and highly prepared special educators they can be. Her leadership has sparked energy, participation, and pride in our program, and we are grateful for the impact she is making on the next generation of educators.

Congratulations, Dr. Didion—this honor is incredibly well deserved!

Updated KU Chapter Report: Feb 2026: 

In additional to presentations in KU classes, the KU student chapter had a successful ‘Pie the Professor’ event to raise money for the National Conference. Five members are attending the national conference in Salt Lake City. At the end of the year we are trying to plan a volunteer or social event with people with disabilities.