The Social Studies Professional | June 17, 2025 | No. 449

NCSS Interim Executive Director Anton Schulzki welcomes Kelly McFarland Stratman as the association’s next Executive Director. Stratman was most recently Chief of Staff for the League of Women Voters of the United States, a national, nonpartisan nonprofit focused on voter engagement and civic participation. Her first day in her new role is June 23, 2025. Mr. Schulzki's final day as Interim Executive Director is June 30, 2025.

NCSS 2025 Student Scholarship Recipients

Sanjana Diddige

South Forsyth
High School

2024-25 1787 Prize Recipient

Sanjana is deeply passionate about law, government, and public service. She hopes to study political science and constitutional law in college and pursue a career in public interest,
corporate, or policy law - fields where she can contribute to shaping a more just, equitable, and
responsible society.
"I’m truly honored to be named a recipient of this year’s 1787 prize. Writing this essay allowed
me to delve deeper into the Constitution and the judiciary's role in our democracy - topics I care
deeply about. I hope my essay encourages others to reflect on how the Constitution continues to
shape our rights today. I’m especially grateful to my mom for her unwavering support through
every high and low, and to Ms. Funderburk, my incredible U.S. History teacher, whose time,
insight, and encouragement helped me find my voice both as a writer and a thinker."

Ellena N. Obiria

Hunterdon Central Regional High School

2025 Rho Kappa Scholarship Recipient

Ellena is originally from Kenya, having moved to the United States at the age of one. She is fluent in four languages: Swahili, Spanish, English, and the Kenyan tribal language Gussi, and enjoys rigorous academic courses that pushes her to discover her true abilities. Ellena's intended university is Drexel University, where she plans on studying to become a Child Clinical Psychologist.
"Throughout anything you may face in life, remember that there is light at the end of the tunnel. Believe in yourself! Don’t let anyone dim your light!"

The NCSS FASSE Awards Season is Now Open!

Each year, the National Council for the Social Studies proudly recognizes excellence across the field through the NCSS Awards Program, supported by the Fund for the Advancement of Social Studies Education (FASSE).

These awards honor exceptional social studies educators, researchers, and others who are making a meaningful difference in classrooms and communities across the country. Whether you’re recognizing a colleague, mentor, or your own work, we invite you to submit a nomination by July 18, 2025. Explore the full list of awards and apply today here.

Free Webinar on the Impact of Environmental Education

Join NCSS partner NAAEE as they discuss the past decade of eeWORKS, a collaborative research project of NAAEE, Stanford University, University of California at Davis, and the University of Florida. This project has explored how environmental education leads to positive outcomes in K–12 education, conservation, early childhood, positive youth development, community science, and climate education.

At this June 18 webinar, you’ll hear from the talented research team who have reviewed hundreds of studies examining what the research says about the value and impact of environmental education, and explore how the lessons learned can help you in your work—from writing proposals to understanding how to integrate the research into what you do. Learn more and register here.

Learn about the Civic Star Challenge from iCivics

The Civic Star Challenge is a groundbreaking initiative from NCSS partner iCivics and the Bill of Rights Institute. Joining the Civic Star Challenge is a great way for educators to bring the Declaration of Independence to life with fresh, engaging, and ready-to-use resources, and offers the chance to win over 400 incredible prizes. The Civic Star Challenge will launch this August. Sign up here to learn more.

Upcoming NCSS Events

Click the icons above for webinar details and registration information. Explore all upcoming NCSS and Affiliated Council events here.

➭ Explore Your Next Career Move in the NCSS Career Center.

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The Social Studies Professional — known as TSSP — is the official

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