Dr. Jeremy Sullivan, the Director of Innovative Learning and Student Supports for the North Kitsap School District, has been named the Innovative Leader of the Year by the Northwest Council for Computer Education (NCCE). This award honors Dr. Sullivan’s visionary leadership and his unique ability to ensure that technology serves as a tool for empathy and individualized student support.
“Jeremy Sullivan embodies what we aspire to in educational leadership. He has this rare ability to guide complex, technical work while never losing sight of the students at its center. His leadership is thoughtful, collaborative, and deeply human,” stated NCCE CEO Shannon Davenport.
“Jeremy reminds us that technology is at its best when it strengthens connection and compassion, which is why honoring him feels not only fitting but truly meaningful. His creativity strengthens board discussions and contributes fresh perspectives that support thoughtful decision‑making,” said Davenport.
While serving in a high-level administrative role, Dr. Sullivan remains deeply engaged with the student body. His work is defined by a “heart-centered” approach that balances technical complexity with a focus on the “individualness” of every child. He is perhaps best known for leading the district-wide implementation of the Panorama Data Dashboard, a project that has fundamentally changed how North Kitsap uses data to provide tailored support for students.
Dr. Sullivan’s influence extends through his professional development sessions, which are the district’s highest-rated. These sessions are praised for bridging technical mastery with kindness, covering topics ranging from tailored evaluation frameworks for librarians to mentoring staff on the ethical use of artificial intelligence. His colleagues describe him as a relentless worker who consistently goes beyond his job description to ensure technology serves the “human heart of education”.
The award is particularly meaningful to his nominator, Kari Brumley, a veteran educator with over 30 years of experience, who views Dr. Sullivan as the gold standard for leadership.
“In the world of leadership, it is a rare gift to find a director who can navigate a complex data migration in the morning and lead a heart-centered session on student empathy in the afternoon,” said Kari Brumley. “Jeremy is a standout… he is the model and example you would want to represent your organization. Not only for his skill, but for his heart and his approach,” she emphasized.
About the Award: The NCCE Innovative Leader of the Year award recognizes administrators and district leaders who demonstrate exceptional vision in technology integration, fostering environments where innovation leads to improved student outcomes and staff excellence.