Source: Mt. Diablo Unified School District
The Mt. Diablo Unified School District is proud to announce that Superintendent Dr. Adam Clark has received the 2025 Mike Kneale Excellence in Education Award from the Education Research and Development Institute (ERDI). The national award was presented during a special ceremony on July 16 at the ERDI Summer Institute in Baltimore, MD. Dr. Clark was among three educational leaders honored for exceptional leadership, investment in future leaders, and making a lasting difference in the communities they serve.
The Mike Kneale Excellence in Education Award was established in 2001 by ERDI founder Dr. Mike Kneale and his wife Patty. The award honors superintendents whose careers reflect integrity, visionary leadership, and a lasting commitment to student success.
ERDI selected Dr. Clark for the award based on his tireless advocacy on behalf of students and families, his steady leadership in complex systems, and his ability to build programs that prioritize student well-being and academic achievement. At Mt. Diablo Unified in Contra Costa County, he has led wide-reaching efforts to strengthen learning opportunities, support staff, and engage communities with transparency and resolve.
“Mike Kneale was an incredible leader,” Dr. Clark said.” I am humbled to receive this award from such a prestigious organization.”
In recognition of his honor, a $5,000 donation will be made by Patty Kneale in Dr. Clark’s name to the Mt. Diablo Education Foundation, which was selected by Dr. Clark.
ERDI also presented the Gerald E. Dawkins Leadership Builder Award to Dr. John Kurelja, Executive Director of the Central Susquehanna Intermediate Unit in Pennsylvania; and the Kathy Hurley Distinctive Mentor Award to John Gamba, Entrepreneur-in-Residence in the University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education.
Referring to all three award recipients, ERDI President and CEO Dr. Jennifer Ferrari said: “Each of these individuals represents what is best about public education—visionary leadership, deep care for students, and a commitment to helping others thrive. We are honored to recognize their contributions and celebrate their ongoing impact.”
About Mt. Diablo Unified School District
Mt. Diablo Unified School District serves nearly 30,000 students at over 50 school sites in the communities of Concord, Pleasant Hill, Clayton, Bay Point, Pittsburg, and parts of Walnut Creek, Martinez, and Lafayette. MDUSD is committed to ensuring high-quality education for all students and providing innovative programs that prepare them for success in college, career, and life.
About ERDI
The Education Research and Development Institute (ERDI) is a premier professional learning community that brings together education leaders and industry partners to co-design practical, high-impact solutions for today’s public schools. ERDI advances innovation, excellence, and responsive leadership through national convenings and ongoing research initiatives. For more information, visit www.erdius.org or contact jbarraza@erdius.org.
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