ESP of the Year Award

The NEA Education Support Professional (ESP) of the Year Award, presented by NEA and NEA Member Benefits, honors a member who demonstrates outstanding accomplishments and whose achievements reflect the vital role ESPs play in public education.

The NEA ESP of the Year serves as an ambassador for ESPs across the country, promoting the value of ESP members at local, state, and national events. While the award showcases one outstanding ESP each year, it also recognizes and honors the contributions that all ESPs make towards ensuring great public schools for every student.

Meet the Top 5 Finalists 

Congratulations to the top 5 finalists for 2025 NEA ESP of the Year: Amy Evans (IL), Beryl Torrence (NC), Becky Marszalek (PA), Andy Markus (UT), and Alyce Holmes Pope (VA)!

Learn more about the finalists here

NEA will recognize all the state nominees and reveal the top recipient at a special award ceremony on Saturday, March 22, 2025, at the NEA ESP National Conference in Louisville, KY. Stay tuned for the big announcement!

2024 NEA ESP of the Year

Jen Bramson is an early childhood paraeducator in Park City, UT, and a fierce leader at the Utah School Employees Association. She is dedicated to fighting inequities for her students and improving the lives of ESPs everywhere. In this role, she will serve as an ambassador for ESPs across the country, speaking about the work and importance of ESPs at local, state, and national events.