Ms. Jen Leek has been selected as a recipient of a 2026 Teacher Creativity Fellowship through Lilly Endowment Inc., an honor that supports Indiana K–12 educators as they pursue meaningful renewal projects designed to reignite their passion for teaching. As part of this statewide initiative, Lilly Endowment has awarded grants of up to $15,000 to 154 educators across Indiana, totaling $2.25 million. These fellowships are intended to help educators restore their commitment to the profession, foster creativity, and ultimately enhance learning experiences for students.
Ms. Leek’s fellowship project, titled “A Picture’s Worth 1000 Miles….or More,” will allow her to step outside the classroom and reimagine herself as both a teacher and lifelong learner. During the fellowship period, she will embark on a 2,500-mile road trip through the Western United States, exploring national parks and other iconic destinations. Along the way, she will document her journey through photography, capturing landscapes, moments, and stories that will serve as a source of inspiration for both her personal growth and her professional practice.
Beyond professional renewal, this opportunity also provides Ms. Leek valuable time to build lasting memories with her family, blending reflection, exploration, and creativity into one meaningful experience. The stories, images, and perspectives gained during her travels will be brought back into her classroom, enriching lessons and sparking curiosity among her students. Ms. Leek’s fellowship embodies the spirit of the Teacher Creativity Fellowship Program—investing in educators so they can return refreshed, inspired, and ready to make an even greater impact on the students they serve.