The Tom Ulmet Leadership Award
The Tom Ulmet Leadership Award celebrates individuals who outstandingly embody qualities of leadership, professional character, resilience and courage in the face of adversity. This award is named in honor of Tom Ulmet, a visionary colleague and longstanding Executive Director of the ACAMIS community of schools who, in upholding the purposes and values of ACAMIS, demonstrated boundless optimism, determination and an unwavering commitment to the association and its membership during his long service.
If you wish to apply for this award, please download the application form and send the completed form to ed@acamis.org by Friday, February 20, 2026
Nominations
The successful recipient will be nominated by an ACAMIS Head of School, or, if the recipient is a Head of School being nominated by members of his or her own school, by a designated representative of the school’s Senior Leadership Team (and endorsed by the Board Chair). A written statement of no more than 300 words outlining why the nominee would be deserving of recognition by the ACAMIS membership and Board of Directors shall be submitted to the Executive Director no later than two months prior to the date of the annual ACAMIS Leadership Conference.
Criteria
Demonstrated Leadership
The recipient should have overcome significant challenges and adversity, leading by example and inspiring others. They should have demonstrated the ability to motivate and guide individuals and communities towards success, even in the most difficult of situations.
Resilience and Adaptability
The recipient should have demonstrated the ability to bounce back from setbacks and adapt to changing circumstances. They should have shown resilience in the face of adversity, maintaining a positive attitude and finding innovative solutions to overcome obstacles.
Impact and Influence
The recipient's actions and demeanor should have made a significant and positive impact on the morale and wellbeing of their school and community. They should have inspired and influenced others, fostering a culture of optimism, courage and resilience.
Ethical Conduct
The recipient should have consistently demonstrated and maintained high ethical standards and integrity. They should have acted with honesty, transparency, and fairness, earning the trust and respect of their colleagues and community.
The Award
The recipient of the Tom Ulmet Leadership Award shall receive a plaque, endorsed by the ACAMIS Board of Directors, that recognizes their outstanding professional character and leadership achievements. Additionally, they shall be awarded a registration credit to attend the next ACAMIS Leadership Conference, or another of their choice, in the event that they are unable to attend.
2026 Winner Recipient
Inna Klein, Head of School at Xiamen International School
Selected as this year’s recipient of the ACAMIS Tom Ulmet Leadership Award, Inna Klein is recognized for her outstanding leadership, dedication to community building, and commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment. The award honors individuals who embody the qualities of leadership, resilience, integrity, and service that Tom Ulmet exemplified throughout his years of contribution to the ACAMIS community. Inna’s leadership at Xiamen International School reflects these values through her strong focus on relationships, professional growth, and creating a deep sense of belonging for students, staff, and families alike.
With 14 years of experience in educational leadership, Inna is currently serving in her fifth year as Head of School and her sixth year at XIS. Fluent in three languages and enriched by strong cultural awareness, she connects effectively with diverse students, families, and colleagues. Her strengths include building vibrant school communities, supporting long-term professional growth for staff, and mentoring aspiring leaders. Beyond her leadership role, Inna is also an accomplished author who has written two children’s books dedicated to her current school, reflecting her creativity and passion for inspiring young minds. Having previously worked in the USA and South America, she now continues to make a meaningful impact in Xiamen, China.
Watch the interview with Inna Klein hosted by Larry Hobdell. Please find Inna Klein's certificate below handed to her at the 2026 Spring Leadership Conference at American International School of Guangzhou.
The Certificate
Past Award Recipients
2025 Winner Recipient
The winner of The Tom Ulmet Leadership Award in 2025 was Dr. Chris Vicari, Head of School at Qingdao Amerasia International School. He was handed the certificate at the 2025 Spring Leadership Conference at Xi'an Liangjiatan International School.
