Dr. Christine Handy President of The Montgomery County Association of Administrators and Principals (MCAAP) proudly announces that Patricia Donner, school business administrator at Gaithersburg High School, has been selected as the recipient of the 2025 Edye Miller Distinguished Service Award, one of the association’s highest honor recognizing sustained, exemplary service and dedication to the mission of MCAAP/MCBOA. established in 2017 upon the retirement
of longtime executive director Edye Miller, is presented annually to a member whose voluntary contributions have strengthened the association and inspired others to lead with excellence. The award celebrates distinguished service, collaborative spirit, and a commitment to the professional growth of administrators across Montgomery County Public Schools.
Congratulations Patricia Donner, 2025 recipient of the Edye Miller Distinguished Service Award.
Patricia Donner epitomizes the values at the heart of this prestigious recognition. With
nearly a decade of service to MCAAP, most notably as President and Vice President of
the MCBOA Chapter Cabinet and a member of the MCAAP Board of Directors, Ms.
Donner has elevated the voice of MCPS business and operations administrators while
advancing equitable policies and practices that benefit all MCAAP members. Her
leadership is grounded in integrity, fueled by impact, and guided by an unwavering sense
of duty.
“Patricia doesn’t seek recognition, she seeks results,” said Dr. Christine Handy, MCAAP
President. “Her vision is strategic, her voice is steady, and her contributions are both
practical and profound. She doesn’t just serve MCAAP, she strengthens it.”
Throughout her tenure, Ms. Donner has participated in critical negotiations, advocating
for administrators' working conditions and equitable compensation enhancements,
including COLA and step increases, and advanced professional development efforts for
MCBOA members. Her service on key committees such as the Joint Collaboration
Committee and the Joint Professional Development Committee has ensured that
operational voices are included at the decision-making table.
Beyond her formal roles, Patricia is widely recognized as a mentor, collaborator, and
capacity builder. She leads by influence, modeling professionalism, fostering
engagement, and mentoring a new generation of school business leaders with empathy
and wisdom.
Reflecting on her journey, Ms. Donner shared, “I am honored to receive this award, but
even more honored to have had the opportunity to grow through service. MCAAP has
opened a world of advocacy I didn’t know existed, and I now see it as a personal calling.
I am privileged to serve and support colleagues committed to making a difference.”
Colleagues support Ms. Donner’s selection, describing her as a trusted voice of reason, a
strategic thinker, and a leader whose impact is both measurable and enduring.
