Established in 2019 by the North Berwyn Park District and its Board of Commissioners, this marks the eighth (8) presentation of this prestigious award. It was created to recognize an individual whose outstanding service, exceptional leadership, visionary guidance, and unwavering dedication have helped improve the quality of life in the City of Berwyn. Each recipient embodies the very values that the Joseph C. Vallez award exemplifies.

Tonight, we proudly honor the life, legacy, and lasting impact of Lincoln Middle School Assistant Principal, Ms. Nerissa Lee.

Nerissa Lee joined Lincoln Middle School in 2016 as a STEAM teacher. During her interview with Dr. Michelle Smith, the only available position was teaching computer technology. Although she had no formal technology background, Ms. Lee confidently responded, "I'll learn it." That simple statement reflected the determination, resilience, and growth mindset that would define her career.

After several years in the classroom, Ms. Lee became Lincoln's Reading Instructional Specialist. She continually challenged herself with one important question: "If kids need something different, how do I provide that?" Her unwavering commitment to meeting students where they were ultimately led her into school administration, where she proudly served as Assistant Principal.

Ms. Lee possessed a remarkable gift for connecting with students, especially those who were often considered the most difficult to reach. She approached every challenge with compassion, patience, and understanding, ensuring every student felt respected, supported, and valued. Rather than focusing on mistakes, she focused on solutions, often asking, "What do we do to fix it?"

She believed that when students see their identities reflected, respected, and celebrated, they develop confidence, pride, and a true sense of belonging. That philosophy helped shape the culture at Lincoln Middle School and left a lasting impression on students, staff, and families alike.

In September 2025, our community experienced an unimaginable tragedy when Ms. Nerissa Lee's life was taken far too soon outside of Lincoln Middle School—the very place where she devoted so much of her heart, energy, and love each and every day.

Although her passing left an immeasurable void, her influence continues to live on. The relationships she built, the students she inspired, and the culture of kindness, inclusion, and belonging she helped cultivate remain part of Lincoln Middle School today. Her desk still sits untouched in the main office—a quiet reminder of a leader whose presence continues to be deeply felt.

This award recognizes not only everything Ms. Lee accomplished during her time with us, but also the countless lives she would have continued to inspire. Her compassion, leadership, and unwavering belief in the potential of every student have created a legacy that will continue to guide and inspire future generations.

The inscription on Ms. Lee's award reads:

"When you DREAM big, BELIEVE in your talents, and strive to ACHIEVE your highest goals and aspirations… anything is possible."

Those words beautifully reflect the way Ms. Lee lived her life and the encouragement she gave to every student she encountered.

The Joseph C. Vallez Award was established to ensure that extraordinary individuals who dedicate themselves to making Berwyn a stronger, more compassionate community are never forgotten. Their contributions and legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.

It is with tremendous pride that the North Berwyn Park District and its Board of Commissioners present the 2026 Joseph C. Vallez Award, in memory of Lincoln Middle School Assistant Principal, Ms. Nerissa Lee.

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