MCPER Executive Director Sharon Vaughn is the recipient of the 2026 Kauffman-Hallahan-Pullen Distinguished Researcher Award.
Each year, the Division for Research of the Council for Exceptional Children selects an award winner “in recognition of the critical importance of research in special education that has a meaningful impact on the field,” according to the Division for Research website. “This award recognizes individuals or research teams whose research has resulted in more effective services or education for exceptional individuals. Recipients of this award are recognized for both the creation of a research base and the work to translate this research into practice.”
In a release, the Division for Research wrote that Vaughn’s “extraordinary scholarship, leadership, and impact on students with disabilities make her an exemplary and deserving recipient of this prestigious award.” She will be recognized at the annual Council for Exceptional Children Convention and Expo from March 11 to 14 in Salt Lake City, Utah.