April 8, 2009 — Billy Cannaday, dean of the University of Virginia's School of Continuing and Professional Studies, received the AdvancED Leadership Award from AdvancED, the parent organization for the North Central Association Commission on Accreditation and School Improvement and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

The award was presented last month at the organization's conference in Chicago.

The honor recognizes Cannaday's achievements in initiating and/or supporting public policy supporting excellence in education at the state, regional and national levels. Before becoming dean, Cannaday served as Virginia's superintendent of public instruction.

Stewart Roberson, Hanover County's superintendent of schools and an executive professor in the School of Continuing and Professional Studies, was presented with the inaugural National Excellence in Education Award. The award is based on a selection process from among 40 member states to recognize outstanding leadership in promoting excellence in education.

Having served in Hanover since May 1995, Roberson is among the longest-serving superintendents in Virginia. His work with the School of Continuing and Professional Studies includes serving as co-chairman of the Statewide K-12 Education Advisory Council, assistance with strategic planning and implementation of K-12 initiatives and leadership in the development and instruction of the Statewide Communities of Practice for Excellence program. 

As part of his appointment, Roberson teaches three graduate courses in administration and supervision each year.