Celebrating Excellence: Honoring Washington State’s 2026 Black Male Educator and Administrator of the Year

 

Across the nation, Black men represent less than 2% of the total public school teaching workforce. In classrooms and district offices alike, this underrepresentation leaves a critical gap in mentorship, cultural affirmation, and diverse leadership for all students. Against this backdrop, the Academy for Creating Excellence (ACE), a Seattle-based non-profit dedicated to empowering Black male youth and adults, launched its statewide Educator Awards in 2024 to recognize educators whose dedication, leadership, and vision transform schools and communities across Washington State.

Following a highly competitive peer-selection process with a record number of nominations spanning classroom teachers, district administrators, school counselors, and community mentors, ACE is proud to announce the 2026 award recipients: Daman Hunter as Black Male Administrator of the Year, and Ryland Brown as Black Male Educator of the Year.

 
 

Black Male Educator of the Year: Ryland Brown

Ryland Brown, a dedicated mathematics teacher at O’Dea High School with a distinguished legacy of service in both Seattle public and private schools, embodies pedagogical mastery and unwavering dedication to uplifting the next generation. Highlights from colleagues, families, and community members include:

  • A Multi-Generational Legacy of Excellence: Carrying forward the tradition of educators in his own family, enters the classroom with a clear mission to share knowledge, open doors, and provide culturally affirming representation for students who look like him.

  • Instructional Mastery in Mathematics: Teaching Algebra 1 and Algebra 2, he meets students where they are. Through dynamic strategies such as "think, ink & share," he demystifies rigorous mathematics, re-engages learners who may be below grade level, and instills a lasting work ethic that alumni carry into higher education and their careers.

  • Whole-Student Development on the Court and in Life: As one of Seattle’s premier basketball coaches, his leadership extends beyond academic instruction into character development, teamwork, and discipline. He prioritizes authentic relationships with families, taking time to listen to their aspirations and partner in their children's growth.

Black Male Administrator of the Year: Daman Hunter

Currently serving as Associate Superintendent in the Kent School District, Daman Hunter’s recognition honors a multi-decade legacy of equity-driven executive leadership across Puget Sound school communities including Tukwila, Federal Way, and Highline. Peers and colleagues point to his transformative impact across three core areas:

  • Decades of Visionary Leadership: A proven track record of executive leadership and stability across multiple school communities.

  • Equity & Student-Centered Focus: Leading by example in driving equity-centered initiatives that directly impact student achievement and well-being.

  • Collaborative Excellence: Bringing consistency, high integrity, and authentic partnership to every role and district he serves.

 

Empowering Black Men in Education

ACE is proud to honor Daman Hunter and Ryland Brown as part of its ongoing mission to expand career opportunities and elevate Black leadership across the educational workforce. Celebrating these leaders serves as a powerful call to action reminding us of the profound difference that strong, representative, and equity-centered educators make for students and communities every single day.

 
ACE