Dr. Dominic Nguyen’s efforts to break through barriers and ensure all students in Centralia Elementary School District have access to innovation and opportunity have earned him this year’s Technology Administrator of the Year award.

In a district that serves 70 percent unduplicated pupils who speak more than 35 home languages, Nguyen has transformed programs to better serve students as the district’s Director of Innovation and Expanded Learning, or DIEL.

Nguyen revitalized the district’s Design Thinking Labs into a cohesive, districtwide program that won a 2024 Golden Bell Award. Students in grades TK-6th now engage weekly in STEAM activities, developing skills like coding, collaboration, and critical thinking while addressing real-world challenges tied to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

Under his guidance, ELOP enrichment offerings reflect the district’s cultural diversity with programs like Baile Folklórico and Mandarin language classes. Partnerships with organizations like Girls Inc., offering students opportunities in entrepreneurship, engineering and film production.

To align ELOP with academic goals, Nguyen introduced a Math Academy, using ELOP resources for small-group, credentialed teacher-led math interventions. This initiative contributed to a 3 percent increase in mathematics CAASPP scores for the 2023-24 school year, showcasing his ability to address student needs effectively.

Nguyen also oversees CESD’s 5-star rated preschool program, ensuring inclusivity and a strong foundation for young learners, particularly those from underserved communities. Known as “the real DIEL,” Nguyen is an authentic leader who moves mountains for his students and staff, according to Centralia Elementary School District Superintendent Norma E. Martinez.

“At the recent ELOP training, Dominic could be seen cooking, serving and cleaning. He was there so that his staff could be elevated and served,” she said. “Dominic is a humble leader who is extremely loyal and supportive. As districts look to celebrate exceptional leadership, Dr. Dominic Nguyen ... should be the example.”

What’s your favorite book or quote on leadership? Two books that have profoundly influenced my leadership philosophy are “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” by Stephen Covey and “Wooden on Leadership” by John Wooden. Covey’s principles provide a timeless framework for personal and professional growth, while Wooden’s focus on character, preparation, and consistency continues to guide my leadership approach.

What’s the best advice you’ve been given? “Believe in yourself — there’s nothing you can’t achieve if you’re willing to put in the work.” This advice has grounded me throughout my career. It reminds me that effort, persistence, and self-confidence are often more important than talent alone. What are some life hacks that you would recommend for a new administrator? Listen more than you speak. Relationships and trust are your greatest tools. “First seek to understand before being understood.”

What would people be surprised to learn about you? I’m an immigrant — I wasn’t born in the United States. This background has shaped my deep appreciation for the opportunities this country has provided my family and me. It also instilled in me a responsibility to give back and create pathways for others, especially students who face barriers similar to the ones I once did.

What made you want to become a school administrator? I wanted the opportunity to make a broader, more lasting impact. My father once told me, “Living life for yourself is easy. Living with others in mind — that’s the challenge.” That challenge — of serving and lifting others is what drives me.

What’s the biggest challenge you’ve overcome to get where you are? One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced is learning how to lead confidently as a soft-spoken, introverted individual in a field where visibility and vocal leadership are often seen as the norm. I’ve never been someone who seeks the spotlight or talks extensively about my accomplishments, which can sometimes be misunderstood as a lack of assertiveness or drive.

But I’ve learned that leadership comes in many forms. I’ve had to work hard to prove — not through words, but through action — that I’m capable, dependable, and committed. I’ve earned respect by consistently showing up, listening deeply, building strong relationships, and following through on what I say I will do.

What is your proudest accomplishment? Above all else, I’m proud of being a devoted husband and father. While professional milestones matter, it’s the relationships and love at home that define true success for me.

How has ACSA supported you in your career/current position? ACSA has played a pivotal role in my professional growth. It keeps me informed with the latest updates on educational policy and leadership practices. More importantly, it has connected me with a strong network of peers and mentors across districts who are navigating similar challenges and opportunities.

In addition to local networking and support, I’ve also taken part in the ACSA Personnel Academy and the ACSA School Business Academy. These experiences have broadened my understanding of district operations — from human resources and finance to systems-level decision-making. They’ve helped me develop a more comprehensive, global perspective on how to lead effectively within a school district.

The theme for this year’s Leadership Summit is “Lead Loudly: Sharing Stories, Building Bridges.” What does Lead Loudly mean to you? To me, “Lead Loudly” means leading with purpose and passion in a way that uplifts others. It’s about using your actions and your story to inspire change, to connect people, and to open doors. It’s leading with clarity, courage, and heart.