Making IT Happen is an internationally recognized awards program for educators and leaders in the field of educational technology integration in K–12 schools. It identifies and rewards educational technology leaders around the world for their commitment and innovation.

Past Awardees:

• 2011 Tim Comolli, Lauren Parren
• 2012 David Davidson, Josh Seamon
• 2013 Arlyn Bruccoli, John Minelli
• 2014 Kelly Ahlfed, Amy Truchon
• 2015 Bonnie Birdsall, Dan French
• 2016 John Minelli
• 2017 Karen McCalla, Steve Webster
• 2018 Lisa Barry, Clarena Renfrow
• 2019 Charlie MacFadyen
• 2021 Jeff Renard

ISTE and ISTE’s affiliates have presented this award to nearly 500 worthy leaders since the program began. The award recognizes people who demonstrate extraordinary leadership, courage, innovation, and persistence in improving learning opportunities for students. Recipients of the awards are educators who:

1. Apply available technology now
2. Move forward and don’t look back
3. See students as real people
4. Teach through relationships, inspiring, encouraging, nurturing
5. Recognize that further change is necessary but understand that it is a process
6. Realize that teacher empowerment is the key element in technology integration
7. Expect success
8. Motivate through awareness and access to information

Winners receive an award jacket, an award certificate, a one-year membership in ISTE, and a standing invitation to the Making IT Happen reception at every ISTE conference.