The Coalition of Oregon School Administrators (COSA) is proud to announce that Dr. Mark Mulvihill, Superintendent of InterMountain Education Service District (IMESD), has been selected as the recipient of the 2026 Jerry Colonna Lifetime Achievement Award, one of the organization’s highest honors recognizing a career of extraordinary service and leadership in Oregon education.

Throughout a remarkable 38-year career, Dr. Mulvihill has served Oregon students and educators as a teacher, coach, principal, assistant superintendent, and superintendent. His leadership has influenced education policy, strengthened regional and statewide partnerships, expanded opportunities for students, and helped develop generations of educational leaders.

Since becoming Superintendent of IMESD in 2008, Dr. Mulvihill has led transformative initiatives that have expanded educational opportunities across Eastern Oregon and beyond. Under his leadership, IMESD advanced innovative programs including the Virtual Learning Academy, the Blue Mountain Early Learning Hub, student wellness initiatives, and comprehensive school safety and security efforts.

His influence has also been felt at the state level through service on the Oregon Quality Education Commission, the Oregon Education Investment Board, and the COSA Governor's Advisory Committee. As President of the Oregon Association of Education Service Districts, he helped bring together education leaders from across Oregon to advance policies and practices that support students, educators, and communities.

In their nomination letter, signed by 17 superintendents from throughout the InterMountain ESD region, educational leaders described Dr. Mulvihill as a "trusted mentor, advocate, and leader" whose career has been defined by service, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to public education.

The nomination further notes that Dr. Mulvihill has "consistently ensured that small, rural, and urban school districts alike have a strong and equitable voice in statewide conversations" and credits him with helping shape funding models, advance equity-focused policies, and support system-wide improvements that continue to benefit Oregon students and educators today.

Beyond his formal leadership roles, Dr. Mulvihill has been deeply committed to developing future educational leaders. Through his work as a Regional Administrative Licensure Program Coordinator, adjunct faculty member, mentor, and community leader, he has supported aspiring administrators and educators across the state.

In their endorsement, the InterMountain ESD superintendents wrote:

"His transformative leadership, steadfast advocacy, and deep commitment to public education have shaped programs, influenced policy, and inspired generations of students, educators, and leaders across Oregon. His legacy is defined by service, innovation, and excellence, and his impact will continue to be felt for years to come."

The Jerry Colonna Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes individuals whose careers have left a lasting mark on Oregon's educational landscape through exceptional leadership, service, and commitment to students and educators.

Mulvihill was formally recognized at COSA’s annual Seaside Conference in June.

PHOTO CAPTION: Dr. Mark Mulvihill (Center), is pictured with Warren Colonna (On Left), grandson of Jerry Colonna, and Ann Colonna (On Right), daughter of Jerry Colonna. The Colonnas presented the award on June 17^th.