We are proud to announce that Ste. Genevieve Elementary principal Dr. Nanya Gegg has been selected as the 2026 Distinguished Principal for the Southeast Region by the Missouri Association of Elementary School Principals (MAESP).
This recognition highlights Dr. Gegg’s leadership, dedication and impact on students, staff and families. Colleagues describe her as a steady, student-focused leader whose work strengthens school culture, supports academic and social growth, and builds meaningful connections with families and the community. This honor reflects the respect she has earned throughout the region and across the education profession.
Dr. Gegg began her career in public education in 1998 and joined Ste. Genevieve R-II in 2012. She taught fifth grade English language arts and science at Bloomsdale Elementary for three years before serving as Ste. Genevieve Elementary’s assistant principal for five years. She has led Ste. Genevieve Elementary as principal since July 2020.
Her academic background includes a Bachelor of Science in Education from Southeast Missouri State University, a Master of Arts in Teaching from Webster University, and both a Master of Arts in Administration and a Specialist in Administration from SEMO. She later earned her Doctorate in Educational Leadership from William Woods University. In 2020, she was named the MAESP Southeast Region Outstanding Assistant Principal.
Dr. Gegg will be formally recognized at the 2026 MAESP Leadership Conference in Osage Beach in late February.
Eligibility for the Distinguished Principal recognition is determined by the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP). Nominees must:
Be practicing principals and NAESP members at the time of nomination and through the NAESP Award Ceremony.
Have served as a building principal (not assistant principal) for at least five years.
Demonstrate a strong commitment to excellence.
Lead programs that meet the academic and social needs of all students.
Maintain solid relationships with parents and the broader community.
Each of the eleven MAESP Regional Networks nominates one honoree who meets these criteria. From these regional honorees, one principal is selected as the Missouri National Distinguished Principal and will represent the state at the NAESP National Distinguished Principal Celebration in Washington, D.C., each October.
Please join us in congratulating Dr. Gegg on this well-deserved and meaningful honor!