In 1998, realizing that too little recognition is usually given to the important work of educational research, the Foundation decided to create an award that would be given annually at its Learning From Practice conference. The McDowell Foundation Award is intended to celebrate and publicize a variety of outstanding contributions to the field of teacher-centred educational research.

The award is to be given to individuals who have made contributions as a builder, a researcher or a supporter. Builders are those visionary people who have played an important role in the growth of the Foundation or educational research through organizational development and/or volunteer service. Researchers are those who have conducted exemplary research, either through the McDowell Foundation or in another context, that may be characterized as excellent or innovative, teacher-centred, timely and significant in its impact on teachers and education. Supporters are those indispensable individuals who have provided significant financial or public relations support for the McDowell Foundation or educational research.

McDowell Foundation Award Recipients