Doctor Mary Evans, principal of Cumberland Trace Elementary was presented the state-wide award this past summer.

It's given by the Kentucky Association of School Administrators.

Monday night, friends gathered at a reception in her honor where they spoke of how proud they are of Evans and her accomplishments.

"I work with a lot of great administrators in Warren County, and all over the state," said Evans, "and to kind of be chosen to represent them as a good administrator was a big deal. I felt very honored by that."

"She is constantly showing us support by being our best," said teacher Patrice McCrary, herself a national award winner. "Best ever cheerleader to any faculty and staff member here at Cumberland Trace, and student here, so we wanted to return the favor. Take an evening just to set aside and honor her."

Evans hopes to continue in her field for many years to come.