The Morris County School Boards Association (MCSBA) is proud to announce the recipients of the 5th Annual Irene M. LeFebvre Excellence in Boardsmanship Award, presented during its Spring County Meeting on May 6, 2026. Established in 2022, this prestigious honor recognizes current Morris County school board members who demonstrate exceptional leadership, a deep commitment to responsible governance, and dedicated service to their local communities.
The award serves as a tribute to the legacy of Irene M. LeFebvre, a former president of both the MCSBA and the New Jersey School Boards Association (NJSBA). This year, the association celebrated two distinguished leaders who embody these values: Jennifer Darling of the Boonton Town Board of Education and Diane Morris of the Mine Hill Township Board of Education. The awards were presented by Irene LeFebvre herself, alongside past MCSBA President Bernadette Dalesandro.
Jennifer Darling: A Champion for Advocacy and Transparency
Jennifer Darling, currently Vice President of the Boonton Town Board of Education, was recognized for her transformative impact on district transparency and state-level advocacy. Darling played a pivotal role in implementing the “Committee as a Whole” meeting model and has expertly led the Negotiations Committee. A Certified Board Leader (CBL), she previously served on the MCSBA Board of Directors and the Legislative Committee, where she is a vocal advocate for equitable school funding. Her commitment extends beyond the board table to local scouts, youth athletics, and the fire department.
Diane Morris: A Legacy of Student-Centered Governance
With 10+ years of service to the Mine Hill Township Board of Education, Diane Morris has a storied history of leadership, including multiple terms as President. Under her guidance, the board earned the NJSBA Carole E. Larsen Master Board Certification. Her influence reaches the state level, where she has provided vital testimony before the New Jersey Senate Education Committee. A veteran of the NJSBA Workshop for over 35 years, Morris currently serves on the NJSBA Board of Directors and the MCSBA Executive Committee, consistently prioritizing student achievement in every policy decision.
Recognizing a Field of Excellence
The selection process was conducted by an independent committee of board members from outside Morris County. In addition to the winners, the committee recognized three distinguished nominees for their outstanding contributions: Dino Cappello (Denville), Joseph Daughtry (Montville), and Scott Miller (Dover).
The 2026 awards ceremony underscored the vital role that skilled, dedicated board members play in advancing public education and fostering student success throughout the state.
