For Tiffany Donahue, ACSA’s 2026 Adult Education Administrator of the Year, adult education is more than a profession. It is a calling rooted in equity, opportunity and the belief that every learner deserves a pathway to success.

As principal of Muzetta Thrower Adult Education Center in Vacaville Unified School District, Donahue has transformed adult education into a thriving community where students of all backgrounds can achieve their goals. Her program serves English learners, adults with disabilities, students seeking high school diplomas or equivalency credentials, and those returning to education after life circumstances interrupted their academic journeys.

Drawing on her experience as a special education teacher, Donahue has built systems that prioritize accessibility and individualized support. Under her leadership, the center has expanded workforce-aligned career pathways, vocational programs and apprenticeship partnerships, creating seamless transitions from education to employment and postsecondary opportunities.

Donahue oversees all aspects of school operations, including budgeting, staffing, curriculum development and compliance, while fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement. Through data-driven decision-making, she has increased student engagement, persistence and academic achievement, ensuring learners leave equipped for future success.

Known affectionately as “Miss Tiff,” Donahue is a relentless advocate for adult learners. Students know they can count on her support both inside and outside the classroom, and her commitment is evident at graduation ceremonies filled with tears, hugs and gratitude from learners whose lives have been transformed.

A member of ACSA since 2019, Donahue has served in both region and charter leadership, as well as representing Region 4 on the Council of Adult Education Leaders, ACSA Diversity and Equity Committee, Equity Institute Planning Committee and acting as both a Leadership Coach and an ACSA Mentor. Beginning this fall, she will serve on ACSA’s Member Services Committee.

Her collaborative leadership extends to staff, community partners and regional organizations, including the Solano Adult Education Consortium. Through transparency, compassion and vision, Donahue has created a welcoming environment where students are empowered to overcome barriers and become the architects of their own futures.

“What you don’t see ... is all of the behind-the-scenes work she does to make for meaningful learning for her students,” according to Vacaville USD Superintendent Ed Santopadre. “She creates a schedule that creates opportunities for students who want a high school diploma, or to learn English, or to complete one of the medical field certificates. … Tiffany also manages budgets (even shrinking budgets), hires excellent staff members and teaches classes at times.”

He continues: “If popcorn needs to be made, Tiffany is on it.”

What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given? The best advice I’ve ever been given is to lead with both grace and accountability. In education, you can hold high expectations while still honoring the humanity of the people you serve. That balance has guided me throughout my career, especially in adult education, where many students are returning to school while navigating work, family responsibilities, and life challenges. I’ve learned that leadership is not just about managing systems — it’s about creating opportunities for people to believe in themselves again.

What are some life hacks that you would recommend for a new administrator? Build relationships before you need them. Listen more than you speak in the beginning, and never underestimate the value of a strong, supportive team. Stay organized, protect your calendar, and prioritize communication because small misunderstandings can quickly become larger issues. Most importantly, remember that you cannot pour from an empty cup. Take care of yourself so you can continue showing up for others in meaningful ways.

What would people be surprised to learn about you? People might be surprised to learn that I am naturally reflective and enjoy quiet moments to recharge. While my work requires me to be constantly engaged and visible, I find peace through walking, listening to music, and simply taking time to think. Those moments help me stay grounded and remind me to lead with intention rather than just reacting to the demands of the day.

How has ACSA supported you in your career? The Association of California School Administrators has provided me with valuable opportunities for professional growth, networking, and leadership development throughout my career. More importantly, it has connected me with administrators across the state who understand the challenges and rewards of educational leadership. Those relationships, mentorship opportunities, and shared experiences have reminded me that leadership is strengthened through collaboration and community.

The theme for this year’s Leadership Summit is “You Belong Here: Leadership for Every Student.” What does belonging look like for you, your staff or your students? Belonging means creating an environment where every student feels seen, valued, and supported long before they experience success. In adult education, many students walk through our doors carrying doubt, setbacks, or the feeling that education was not built for them. Belonging means helping them realize that they are worthy of opportunity, growth, and a second chance.

For staff, belonging means building a culture of trust, respect, and shared purpose where people feel empowered to contribute their strengths and ideas. Ultimately, belonging is not just something we say — it is something we intentionally create through our actions, relationships, and commitment to every learner who enters our space.