The Joan Craig Trailblazer Award is presented to an individual with a steadfast commitment to advancing the work of Autism Nova Scotia by creating understanding, acceptance, and inclusion in the province. This award is presented annually to a change-maker who is building inclusion, amplifying Autistic voices, and working collaboratively to help trailblaze a path forward for everyone.
At Autism Nova Scotia, we would not be where we are today without our tireless volunteers, partners, families, and caregivers. These inspiring people who work together with the community have helped change the trajectory of our province. These people are Trailblazers.
For our 20th anniversary in 2022, we were beyond honored to present the inaugural Trailblazer Award to our beloved co-founder, Joan Craig. In 2026, the Trailblazer Award will celebrate one of our many incredible volunteer community leaders.
CRITERIA:
The individual has made a significant contribution to Autism Nova Scotia.
The individual has made a positive impact on acceptance, understanding and inclusion in the Autistic community.
The individual is an autism champion and amplifies Autistic voice.
Nominee must be Nova Scotia resident.
Please note: Current Autism Nova Scotia staff and volunteers of the Provincial Board of Directors are not eligible.
The Sheelagh Nolan Award for Excellence in Teachinghonours the dedication and compassion of the late Sheelagh Nolan.
Sheelagh was a passionate community member and a strong advocate for inclusive education. Her son, Patrick, who is autistic, was her greatest inspiration. This award celebrates Sheelagh’s legacy by recognizing educators who demonstrate excellence, inclusion, and care in their teaching practice.
Thank you for helping us recognize educators across Nova Scotia who create welcoming, inclusive, and supportive learning environments for Autistic students of all ages.
Who Can Be Nominated
You can nominate an individual or a team, such as a teacher or learning team, at any accredited:
Nova Scotia public or private school
College or university
Designated Special Education Private School (e.g., Bridgeway, Landmark East, Churchill Academy)
Who Can Nominate
Nominations are welcome from:
Educators and school staff
Parents and caregivers
Students and former students
What We’re Looking For
This award recognizes educators or teams who:
Foster growth and learning for Autistic students
Create inclusive, collaborative, and supportive learning environments
Champion inclusion and best practices in education
When writing your nomination, please include specific examples or stories that show how your nominee has made a positive impact for Autistic students.
Your nomination will be reviewed based on the following five areas (each equally weighted):
Growth: The nominee helps autistic learners grow academically, socially, or personally.
Collaboration: The nominee values teamwork with students, families, caregivers, and colleagues.
Confidence and Connection: The nominee helps autistic learners build confidence and positive peer relationships.
Best Practices: The nominee uses current, evidence-based approaches to teaching and supporting autistic learners.
Eligibility: The nominee is a teacher, or part of a student support or learning team, at an eligible Nova Scotia education centre, college/university, or DSEPS school.
Award Presentation
The Sheelagh Nolan Award for Excellence in Teaching will be presented at Autism Nova Scotia’s Holiday Celebration on November 27, 2025.
All nominees and nominators will be contacted prior to the event.
