Annual Governor's Awards Competition

Next Competition Date:

Saturday, January 9, 2027!

Each year, STANJ is proud to partner with the New Jersey Governor's Awards in Arts Education to recognize and celebrate excellence in speech and theatre education across New Jersey.

While the annual STANJ Student Competition determines the student award recipients, the nomination process below is used to select the two prestigious adult honors: the Outstanding Teacher of Theatre and/or Speech Award and the Distinguished Service in Theatre Education Award.

These awards celebrate the exceptional educators, advocates, and supporters who inspire students, strengthen arts programs, and make a lasting impact on their schools and communities.

We encourage teachers, students, administrators, colleagues, parents, alumni, and community members to nominate someone who has made a difference through their dedication to theatre and speech education. If you are a student whose theatre teacher has inspired your love of the arts, challenged you to grow, or helped shape your future, we especially encourage you to recognize them with a nomination.

Please submit your nomination by December 4, 2026. Individuals who receive a nomination will be contacted by the STANJ Awards Chairperson and invited to submit supporting materials as part of the selection process.

Award recipients will be honored during the STANJ Competition Awards Ceremony on January 9, 2027.