Samford University’s Orlean Beeson School of Education received the 2025 Billy G. Dixon Distinguished Program in Teacher Education Award. The award, presented by the Association of Teacher Educators (ATE), recognizes exceptional teacher education programs that demonstrate a commitment to excellence in preparing future educators.
“This recognition spotlights the tireless efforts and unwavering dedication to excellence of the incredible faculty in the Department of Teacher Education who work passionately to prepare and inspire future teachers,” said Anna McEwan, dean of Orlean Beeson School of Education.
The award is a prestigious honor from ATE, an organization established in 1920 that focuses on advancing teacher education for school-based and campus-based educators. The accolade highlights the university’s dedication to producing top-quality graduates who are ready to make an immediate impact in classrooms across the nation.
Samford’s School of Education will be honored during the ATE 2025 Annual Meeting held March 7-12. Faculty representatives will have the opportunity to present a special 30-minute session showcasing the school’s innovative and impactful teacher education program. Additionally, the program will be featured in the exhibition area where attendees can learn about the school’s approach to teacher preparation. The award package includes a plaque, monetary prize and digital badge recognizing the school’s program excellence.
A Legacy of Excellence
Samford’s Department of Teacher Education is renowned for its robust programs designed to equip aspiring teachers with the skills, knowledge and practical experience necessary to thrive in the classroom. With offerings in elementary, secondary, special education and other areas, the program emphasizes a balance of rigorous academic coursework and hands-on teaching experiences.
The department stands out for its commitment to personalized instruction and mentorship. Faculty members work closely with students, fostering a supportive learning environment that helps them develop both professionally and personally. The program’s partnerships with local schools provide students with early and frequent classroom exposure, ensuring they graduate with the confidence and competence to lead their own classrooms.
The National Council on Teacher Quality has recognized Samford twice recently for its preparation of aspiring teachers. Unlike many education programs across the state of Alabama, Samford’s School of Education is the only program to provide up to four certifications upon graduation. Furthermore, students are able to earn more than 400 hours of clinical internship and hands-on teacher training before their internship semester and up to 1,000 hours before graduation.
This most recent achievement aligns with the university’s broader mission of delivering academic excellence and preparing graduates who are leaders of character. Such efforts were affirmed in 2024 by the Wall Street Journal ranking Samford No. 8 in the nation for career preparation. The ranking underscores an effectiveness in equipping students with skills and experiences that employers value most.
National Recognition and Impact
Receiving the Billy G. Dixon Distinguished Program in Teacher Education Award highlights the program’s innovative strategies and commitment to addressing the evolving needs of the education field.
“Education programs play a pivotal role in shaping the future of teaching and learning, especially in addressing the pressing challenges the field faces today, such as teacher shortages, equity gaps and the integration of rapidly advancing technologies,” said Karen Birkenfeld, teacher education department chair.
The award amplifies the school’s visibility and influence within the education community. By showcasing its program at the ATE 2025 Annual Meeting, Samford will have the opportunity to share best practices and foster collaborations that benefit teacher educators nationwide. The recognition further strengthens the school’s ability to attract top-tier students and faculty, ensuring its continued impact on the education landscape.
“The goal of our programs remains two-fold,” said Birkenfeld, “We strive to prepare educators who will practice with excellence and will persist in the field. Through immersive field experiences, culturally responsive pedagogy and a focus on social-emotional learning, we are equipping our graduates to tackle these current challenges head-on. The candidates of OBSOE are positioned to make a lasting and far-reaching impact on the students and communities they serve.”
Looking Ahead
Orlean Beeson School of Education’s receipt of this distinguished award is a testament to the hard work and vision of its faculty and the dedication of students. It supports the positive impact the school is having on the rapidly evolving field of education.
At a time when the industry faces staggering amounts of change and stressful classroom environments, Samford prepares young educators to face these challenges with knowledge and skills already field-tested by the time they receive their diplomas.
As the school prepares for its presentation at the ATE 2025 Annual Meeting, it remains focused on its mission to inspire and prepare educators who will shape the future of learning.
Learn more about the School of Education’s accomplishments by reading the 2024 edition of Leadership, Research & Innovation in Education, now available.
