Network of Academic and Scholastic Esports Federations recognized for leveraging youth interest in esports and gaming to engage and excite students in powerful learning experiences 

ATLANTA, GA (July 11, 2024) – The Network of Academic and Scholastic Esports Federations (NASEF) was just named the winner of the 2024 Esports Trade Association Industry Award for the Educator of the Year. This award recognizes an individual or institution that has made significant contributions to education within the esports industry by developing esports-related curricula, conducting research, or providing training that develops future industry professionals.

John Davidson, Chairman, Esports Trade Association, said, “The Esports Industry Awards represent the pinnacle of achievement in our rapidly evolving field. They honor leaders and innovators who have not only shaped the trajectory of esports but have also set new standards for excellence and ingenuity. At the Esports Trade Association, we’re proud to celebrate the visionaries and trailblazers who continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible in esports. The awards showcase the transformative impact of their work, inspiring future generations and fostering a community dedicated to innovation, inclusivity, and growth.”

Megan Van Petten, Founder, Esports Trade Association, added, “Winning an Esports Industry Award is a recognition of bold ideas, relentless perseverance, and unwavering commitment to advancing esports. These awards celebrate the diversity of thought and the dedication required to elevate esports to new heights of success and prominence globally.”

NASEF is known internationally for its work to connect play and learning, making meaningful impact on the lives and career options for youth everywhere. 

Gerald Solomon, NASEF Executive Director, said, “We’re proud that NASEF has received this important industry recognition, demonstrating our collective success in building scholastic esports programs that develop key skills. Thousands of educators in the United States and abroad lean on NASEF for programs, frameworks, and expertise aligned with key pillars of learning, opportunity, community, diversity, and respect.”

NASEF’s mission and its significant youth impact clearly met the criteria for the Esports Trade Association’s Educator of the Year Award:

• Contribution to esports education and training
• Impact on developing future industry talent
• Innovation in educational practices and resources

“The Esports Industry Awards honor those who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, vision, and strategic foresight in navigating the complex dynamics of our industry,” said Rachel Chahal, Event Committee Chair, Esports Trade Association and Senior Director of Amusement & Entertainment Partnerships at The Coca-Cola Company. “Winning an award is a testament to the innovative spirit and collaborative ethos that drive meaningful change in esports.”

About NASEF

NASEF is on a mission to provide opportunities for all students to use esports as a platform to acquire STEM/STEAM-based skills and critical communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills needed to thrive in work and in life. NASEF operates under the umbrella of the World Wide Scholastic Esports Foundation, a 501(c)3 nonprofit headquartered in Atlanta, GA. The International Esports Federation has entrusted NASEF with training and supporting its 130+ member federations as they undertake development of scholastic esports programs. Find NASEF at NASEF.org and on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

About the Esports Trade Association

The Esports Trade Association (ESTA) is committed to elevating and safeguarding the interests of the esports community. By offering innovative professional development programs, extensive networking opportunities, key industry insights, and indispensable resources, ESTA empowers its members to thrive. With a focus on enhancing business acumen and ensuring the esports industry’s continuous growth, ESTA works to expand the ecosystem through increased participation, sponsorship opportunities, and introducing new products and services. The association also spearheads pivotal industry research and organizes events to further these goals. Discover the full scope of ESTA’s mission at https://esportsta.org/.