2026 Diane Genco Excellence in OST Award

Diane Genco, founding Executive Director of NJSACC, along with a small coalition of like-minded professionals and stakeholders, helped establish what is now known as NJSACC: New Jersey’s Afterschool and Out-of-School Time Professional Network.

You can learn more about NJSACC’s origins by listening to the Founder’s Story, shared by Diane Genco, founding Executive Director of NJSACC.

The Diane Genco Excellence in Out-of-School Time Award honors an Out-of-School Time (OST) professional who exemplifies exceptional professionalism and high-quality practice within the Afterschool and OST communities they serve.

The awardee must be able to attend the NJSACC Annual Conference on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. The awardee’s conference registration for Saturday, April 18, 2026, will be provided by NJSACC

Nominees should demonstrate a commitment to excellence through the following:

• A minimum of five years of experience in the Afterschool/Out-of-School Time field, including demonstrated leadership roles and responsibilities
• Consistent alignment with high-quality OST practices, using quality assessment tools such as the New Jersey Quality Standards for Afterschool (NJQSA), the National Afterschool Association’s Core Competencies, or other recognized frameworks.
• A demonstrated commitment to continuous learning and professional growth
• Embodiment of core OST values by creating safe, supportive, and engaging environments that result in positive outcomes for children, youth, and families
• Meaningful collaboration with schools, families, and community partners to strengthen OST programming
• Active advocacy for the importance and impact of OST programs on youth development
• Demonstrated leadership and positive influence within the OST field through mentoring others, leading and guiding teams and advancing program quality
• Implementation of notable initiatives or programs that address identified needs or challenges in OST settings
• A demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging

Nominations are being accepted through Friday, February 27, 2026.