On April 2, 2026, at The Montessori Event in Washington, D.C., the American Montessori Society (AMS) proudly honored a remarkable group of people whose dedication, innovation, and service help raise Montessori education worldwide.
Each year, the AMS Recognition Awards honor those who represent the spirit of Montessori. These leaders uphold its principles, expand its reach, deepen its impact, and inspire future generations.
Last month, we came together as a global community to honor these changemakers. Their work shows us that Montessori is more than a method; it is a movement, carried forward by dedicated adults who lead with purpose, vision, and heart.
We are honored to celebrate the 2026 award recipients:
AMS Living Legacy Award – Meher Van Groenou
Meher Van Groenou started her Montessori journey as a parent who was curious, committed, and looking for something more. She volunteered, substituted, and eventually became a lead teacher and school leader. Her path shows how Montessori can transform not only children, but adults as well.
As a founder of the Montessori Institute of Advanced Studies, Meher has shaped teacher education for more than twenty years. She also created Montessori School at Five Canyons, a place built on collaboration, connection, and respect for each child’s individuality.
Meher’s influence goes beyond institutions. She is a quiet but strong advocate for justice, peace, and global citizenship, living out the ideals Dr. Maria Montessori imagined. With humility and steady commitment, she continues to “light a candle” wherever she goes.
Dr. Nancy McCormick Rambusch Award – Martha Torrence
For over 40 years, Martha Torrence has been a key part of the Montessori community as a teacher, administrator, trainer, and leader.
Her work has touched classrooms, institutions, and the wider Montessori movement. She has led programs at Xavier University Montessori Lab School, Cambridge Montessori School, Summit Montessori School, and founded Our Children’s Center, shaping generations of educators and students.
As a former AMS Board President and longtime supporter of Montessori Schools of Massachusetts, Martha’s influence reaches across the country and beyond. Her research, writing, and talks, especially about the role of play, continue to deepen our understanding of child development and learning.
Maria and Douglas M. Gravel Benefactor Award – Thomas and Meredith Le Grand
Meredith and Thomas Le Grand have supported AMS for many years. Their ongoing generosity and involvement help move forward important AMS projects in teacher development, leadership, and building community.
Through their leadership, they have built a school culture based on care, professionalism, and innovation. This helps keep Montessori vibrant and relevant in today’s changing educational world.
Their belief in the transformative power of Montessori education extends well beyond their own community. Through thoughtful philanthropy and meaningful partnership, they are helping to expand access to high-quality Montessori education for children and educators around the world continues to “light a candle” wherever she goes.
Montessori Innovator Award – Dr. Katie Keller Wood
Dr. Katie Keller Wood is shaping the future of Montessori by connecting tradition with modern practice. As Director of CMStep, she has mentored and trained hundreds of adolescent educators around the world, giving more middle and high school students access to meaningful Montessori experiences.
Her recent book, Alignment: A Montessori Approach to Reimagining the Work-Life Balance, was a USA Today Top 20 bestseller. It brings Montessori ideas into adult life and leadership, offering a practical guide for sustainable, people-focused work.
Her work encourages us to rethink what Montessori can be and who it can serve.
Dr. Maria Montessori Ambassador Award – Léa Todorov
Léa Todorov has brought Montessori education to a wider audience through her feature film Maria Montessori (La Nouvelle Femme). Based on thorough research, the film gives a detailed and human look at Dr. Maria Montessori, showing her pioneering work, feminist beliefs, and lasting influence.
By bringing Montessori’s story to new audiences through film, Léa has created a powerful cultural bridge, advancing awareness of Montessori education and its relevance in today’s world.
AMS Community Service Award
Recognizing Lifelong Commitment of Marie M. Dugan
This year’s recipients show the strength of our community. They have given their time, leadership, and expertise to support AMS and the Montessori movement:
- Dr. Amira Mogaji
- Candy Proctor
- Loren DeNicola
- Dr. Martha Teien
- Mercedes Dugan
- Renee DuChainey-Farkes
These individuals have shown what it means to serve with purpose and integrity, whether through board leadership, policy advocacy, program development, mentorship, or organizing events like the AMS 65th Anniversary Gala.
Their efforts show a shared commitment to excellence and the lasting strength of Montessori education.
A Community of Prepared Adults
These honorees remind us that the future of Montessori is built through community. Their leadership, generosity, and new ideas keep expanding what is possible for children, educators, and the world we are building together. To all our 2026 award recipients, thank you. Your work inspires us, challenges us, and helps move this movement forward.