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SETDA Honors John Gieser with the 2025 State Leader of the Year Award

December 2, 2025 (Washington, DC) – SETDA, the principal membership association of U.S. state and territorial educational technology leaders, announced John Gieser, K–12 IT Strategist at North Dakota Information Technology, as the 2025 recipient of the State Leader of the Year Award. The award was presented during SETDA’s 2025 Leadership Summit & Ed Forum in Arlington, VA.

Gieser is recognized for his leadership in strengthening and modernizing educational technology across North Dakota. In his role, he leads the development of IT services for K–12 schools, overseeing implementation, training, and support for student information systems, data integration, and statewide consulting services. His efforts have strengthened the consistency, security, and usability of school systems statewide, ensuring that every district has reliable, interoperable technology to support teaching and learning. 

Mr. Gieser reflected on the honor, stating: “I am humbled to be recognized by SETDA as the State Leader of the Year. SETDA is an organization that I hold in high esteem for its consistent leadership and guidance on educational technology, nationwide. This honor reflects the collective work of so many North Dakotans that I am blessed to work and serve alongside.”

“John’s work shows what happens when a state commits to building systems that truly serve every learner. His leadership has delivered secure, seamless access to digital tools for districts of every size and is clear proof that thoughtful, statewide innovation can advance equity at scale,” said Julia Fallon, Executive Director of SETDA.

The State Leader of the Year (SLY) Award is presented annually to a state or territorial leader who has demonstrated exceptional commitment to advancing educational technology and digital equity.

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About SETDA
SETDA is the principal association representing U.S. state and territorial educational technology and digital learning leaders. Through a broad array of programs and advocacy, SETDA builds member capacity and engages partners to empower the education community in leveraging technology for learning, teaching, and school operations.

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