Leaders not only provide direction but also possess attributes that inspire and strengthen others. Ms. Quincy Gildea, Assistant Principal of Seneca Valley Intermediate High School has been named a 2023 recipient of the Emerging Woman in Education Award in memory of Professor Emeritus Dr. Jean E. Winsand, University of Pittsburgh, as hosted by the Tri-State Study Council.

The Jean E. Winsand Emerging Woman Leader in Education Award honors a woman who is at an early stage on the path of her leadership career. The award is intended to recognize a woman who has made a significant impact and positive difference through her leadership activities and initiatives.

“I am honored to have been nominated and chosen for this award in honor of a trailblazing female educator, Dr. Jean E Winsand,” said Ms. Gildea. “This recognition speaks to the phenomenal leaders in my life who I have learned from and who believe in my abilities. We are profoundly fortunate here at Seneca Valley to have so many strong female leaders who inspire me and those around them each day.” 

Ms. Gildea earned her Bachelor’s (Early Childhood Education) from Pennsylvania State University and Master’s (Education Administration) from California University of Pennsylvania. Prior to becoming an Assistant Principal, Ms. Gildea worked as a third-grade teacher at Stenwood Elementary School in Virginia for two years before joining the Seneca Valley School District where she served as a second-grade teacher at Connoquenessing Valley Elementary School (CVE) for three years followed by Acting Assistant Principal for one year.

“We are so proud that Ms. Gildea has won the Emerging Woman in Education Award,” stated Dr. Tracy Vitale, Seneca Valley School District Superintendent of Schools. “Quincy is a born leader who is firm but compassionate, level-headed, and mature beyond her years. She has made the transition from leading in one of our elementaries to now leading as an assistant principal in one of our high schools. This transition is not typical for many educational leaders. It is very apparent that her love for children and her passion for learning shines at all levels.”

Ms. Gildea will be recognized during an awards ceremony at the upcoming Dr. Jean E. Winsand Workshop for Women in School Leadership in April.

Posted: March 10, 2023