The NEA Foundation's 13th Annual "Salute to Excellence in Education" Gala

On Friday evening February 8th The NEA Foundation hosted its 13th annual "Salute to Excellence in Education" Gala. The event was held at the The National Building Museum at 401 F Street, NW in Washington, D.C. Tiki Barber—correspondent for The Today Show, sports commentator for NBC, former New York Giants running back, and literacy champion—received The NEA Foundation Award for Outstanding Service to Public Education.

Barber, a three-time Pro Bowler who twice led the NFL in total rushing yards (2004 and 2005), retired from the New York Giants at the close of the 2006 season. He was recognized for promoting literacy to children and youths and for using his considerable influence to emphasize the value of education to young people and their families.

Announcing the 2008 Recipients of The Horace Mann

Awards for Teaching Excellence

As recipients of The Horace Mann Awards for Teaching Excellence, these five educators received a personal gift of $10,000 from the Horace Mann Companies. In addition, one of the five was selected to receive the NEA Member Benefits Award for Teaching Excellence and an additional $25,000. All nominees, including the recipients of the I CAN Learn Awards for Teaching Excellence, were honored at the gala.


Rachel Gifford, nominated by the Louisiana Association of Educators, is a science teacher at Carrie Martin Elementary School in Plain Dealing, Louisiana.

Karen Ginty, nominated by the New Jersey Education Association, is a kindergarten teacher at Monmouth Beach Elementary School in Monmouth Beach, New Jersey.

Douglas R. Graney, nominated by the Virginia Education Association, is a social studies teacher at Herndon High School in Herndon, Virginia.



Carole Darlene Moyer, nominated by the Ohio Education Association, is an early childhood education teacher at the Shepard Center in Columbus, Ohio.

Winner of....NEA Member Benefits Award for Teaching Excellence and an additional $25,000...

Lynette Wayne, nominated by Education Minnesota, is a first-grade teacher at Christa McAuliffe Elementary School in Hastings, Minnesota.