Awards & Recognition

Sister Shawn Marie Barry Distinguished Service to Youth

This award is named for the St. Mary's Academy of Portland's former college counselor who lost her battle with cancer in 1995. These awards are given to PNACAC members who serve as a secondary school counselor, independent counselor, or a college level admission officer. Recipients of the award must have a minimum of ten (10) years of high school or college teaching and/or counseling experience with at least three (3) years in their current position. They must be currently engaged in counseling and be recognized as "those who have given outstanding and faithful service to youth."

Past Recipients

Dr. Alice Tanaka Exemplary Service Award

Named for Alice Tanaka, Ed.D., a Past-President of PNACAC, college counselor and long-serving Seattle National College Fair Chair, Alice has been an active member of both PNACAC and NACAC for over fifty years; guiding both students and our organizations with her wisdom and compassion. This award is given to a member who has demonstrated outstanding service to students and the organization.

Past Recipients

Rising Star Award

This recognition is given to secondary school or college admission counselors who have been in the profession for five (5) years or fewer and possess exceptional promise.

Past Recipients

Excellence in Admissions Award

The PNACAC Excellence in Admissions award recognizes an outstanding professional who has worked in a college advocacy, counseling, or admission capacity for at least five (5) years. Recipients of the award must have made an impact in the field through a body of professional or research work, a single significant contribution, or through the work or service that demonstrates support of the PNACAC and NACAC missions.

Past Recipients


Program of Excellence Award 

This award is for programs that provide great service and/or outcomes for students. To be eligible for this award, programs are considered to be unique and provide excellent service to students. Nominees must have been in place for fewer than five (5) years, and the program must be one that can be replicated by other institutions.