Windber Area School District Superintendent and SFU adjunct faculty member Mike Vuckovich has been named Pennsylvania’s 2026 Superintendent-of-the-Year.
The award recognizes leadership, compassion and dedication. It is presented by the Pennsylvania Association of School Administrators.
Vuckovich teaches in SFU’s Graduate Education Program. He said the award is meaningful, not because of personal achievement, but because it reflects the collective work of educators across his district.
“I am truly humbled and honored,” he said. “This award represents far more than an individual achievement – it reflects the collective work of so many incredible people. I’ve been blessed to serve alongside extraordinary teachers, administrators, staff and board members who share a deep commitment to doing what’s right for students.”
For Vuckovich, leadership is about service. He views his role as one in which he shapes systems in order to give students hope, opportunity and a sense of belonging. “It’s a gift to serve others,” he said. “Education is about service, not status.”
Bill Marshall, SFU’s Rural District Liaison, has known Vuckovich for more than 15 years.
“Mike is an outstanding organizational leader, and anybody that works with him or for him feels like they are a valued member of their team,” Marshall said. “He does a great job of establishing goals and leading others toward them.”
Marshall described Vuckovich as a high-character leader who transforms every organization he’s a part of.
“I’m not surprised at all that he won,” said Marshall. “He’s proven his leadership abilities everywhere he’s been. Now that he’s brought them to Windber, they’re a thriving school district.”
To Vuckovich, the title “Superintendent-of-the-Year” is less about accolades and more about representing the broader mission of public education.
“To represent Pennsylvania’s superintendents – some of the most dedicated and visionary leaders in education – is an incredible honor,” he said. “This recognition is humbling and inspiring. It reaffirms my belief that leadership matters most in difficult times.”
When asked what personal qualities helped him earn the award, Vuckovich mentioned empathy, resilience and hope.
“Leadership begins with listening,” he said. “Empathy allows you to connect with others, build trust, and create the conditions where people feel valued and heard. Resilience keeps you steady, and hope is contagious. It inspires others to rise to challenges.”
Marshall said that Vuckovich’s character and commitment have made an impact not just in Windber, but across the region.
“It’s a testament to his profession and to this local area,” he said. “For him to also be an adjunct at Saint Francis, it just adds more value to all of our organizations.”
Vuckovich has served in the Greater Johnstown, Indiana Area and Windber school districts. He said the award is not a finish line, but a reminder to keep leading with purpose.
“Every day, we have the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of children, families and communities, and that is the greatest reward of all,” he said.
“When we lead with compassion, integrity and unity, we can achieve extraordinary things together.”
