The purpose of the Leila Medley Quality Local Association Award (LMQLA) is to strengthen local associations by providing a framework that describes the characteristics of locals with high levels of capacity and recognizes progress within that framework.
Leila Medley was a teacher, MNEA leader, and an MNEA staff member who understood the power of political involvement and the importance of strong local associations. She served as a UniServ Director and as MNEA Political Director from 1988 until 2009. She mentored hundreds of members in the skills needed to empower themselves and other members. She believed that it was through grassroots efforts that our members and their locals become a powerful force in making our public schools great for every student.