Core Insights - Emily L. Nielson, Chief Human Capital Officer for Baltimore City Public Schools, received the 2026 Distinguished Service Award for her contributions to urban education [1][3] - Nielson has significantly improved staffing and operational efficiency since joining in 2022, leading to a 25% increase in teacher hiring year over year in 2023 and the lowest teacher vacancy levels recorded in 2025 [2][3] Company Achievements - Under Nielson's leadership, the time to deliver offer letters was reduced from three weeks to three days, enhancing the hiring process [2] - Nielson initiated the Maryland-Virginia-DC CHRO network to foster collaboration among HR leaders in large districts [2] Recognition and Impact - The award highlights Nielson's successful efforts in staff recruitment and retention, as well as her modernization of the human resources department [3] - Nielson's leadership is recognized as transformative for urban school districts, demonstrating the impact of strategic human capital management on education [3]