[Gillett, WI.] Cooperative Educational Service Agency 8 (CESA 8) proudly announces that Director of Communications, Dean Leisgang, has received three prestigious national awards from the National School Public Relations Association (NSPRA). The honors were part of NSPRA’s 2025 Publications and Digital Media Awards competition.
Two awards were in the video category for projects Dean produced for external partners. The Shawno Community School District’s identity video and a Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI) video series on Students with IEPs Excelling with Youth Apprenticeships were both winners.
The third award honored the design and development of CESA 8’s new website, CESA8.org.
“Dean’s communication work has provided fantastic value for CESA 8 and the school districts we support. His knack for making information understandable and transparent isn’t just useful; it’s essential, acting as the foundation for success,” commented David Honish, CESA 8 Agency Administrator. “He ensures everyone stays connected and informed, paving the way for seamless collaboration and crucial community support.”
This marks the eighth consecutive year that NSPRA has recognized Leisgang. Throughout his career, he has garnered over 110 national and state awards for excellence in school communications.
“These awards are a reflection of the incredible stories we get to tell on behalf of schools and students,” said Leisgang. “Whether showcasing a district’s identity or elevating the success of students with IEPs, our goal is always to create communications that inform, inspire, and make an impact.”
NSPRA’s Publications and Digital Media Awards recognize outstanding work in publications, websites, videos, podcasts, social media, and other communication tools. Entries are judged against others in similar categories based on organization type and size, with a focus on overall excellence and impact.
As the leader in school communication, NSPRA serves over 2,800 members who work primarily as communication directors in public school districts and educational organizations throughout the United States and Canada. Winning entries will be celebrated at NSPRA’s Annual Meeting and Celebration of Achievement on July 20, 2025.
For more information about the awards or CESA 8’s communications services, contact Dean Leisgang at dleisgang@cesa8.org.