Coffee County Schools Superintendent Dr. Morris Leis was honored at the Cognia Southeast Impact Conference with the Dr. Gregory E. Arnsdorff Servant Leadership Award, one of the organization’s highest recognitions for educational leadership.
The award is presented annually to an educational leader who exemplifies extraordinary devotion to students, educators, and communities through a servant-leadership approach. According to Cognia, the honor recognizes “distinguished commitment to quality and unparalleled servant leadership in advancing excellence in education within the State of Georgia and beyond.”
Dr. Leis was selected for the 2024–2025 award cycle in recognition of his leadership in improving student outcomes, strengthening systemwide culture, and advancing high-quality educational opportunities for all Coffee County students. Cognia noted his consistent emphasis on service, transparency, and collaboration—qualities that reflect the spirit of the award’s namesake, longtime Georgia educator Dr. Gregory E. Arnsdorff.
“I am truly humbled by this recognition,” said Dr. Leis. “This award reflects the dedication of our entire school system—our teachers, administrators, staff, board members, families, and community partners. Coffee County is successful because we work together, stay focused on students, and lead with purpose.”
Cognia is a global nonprofit improvement organization accrediting and supporting more than 40,000 institutions worldwide. The Southeast Impact Conference brings together leaders from across the region to share innovations and best practices in teaching, learning, and organizational excellence.
For Coffee County Schools, the award serves as a statewide acknowledgment of the district’s ongoing commitment to high standards, continuous improvement, and student-centered leadership.