Published on July 30, 2026 by Joelle Youngblood  
Learning for Life recipient 2025

Each year, Samford University’s Orlean Beeson School of Education celebrates distinguished alumni and friends whose leadership and service are making a meaningful difference in their professions and communities during the Learning for Life Awards Dinner.

Established in 2015 to commemorate the School of Education’s centennial, the awards recognize individuals who embody the school’s commitment to educating, leading and serving. Honorees represent a variety of fields, including education, school administration, ministry, nonprofit leadership, business and volunteer service.

“The Learning for Life Awards allow us to celebrate individuals who are using their unique gifts and experiences to serve others,” said Kathy Acton, alumni relations coordinator. “Their accomplishments reflect the many ways our graduates and friends are strengthening communities and creating meaningful change.”

This year's Learning for Life honorees are:

  • Jessica Crocker ’18
  • Tiffany Hamilton, ’07, MSE ’21, EdD ‘23
  • Shane Harmon ‘93
  • Erica Glenn Hochberger ‘02
  • Chad Holden EdD ‘18
  • Keri Johnson EdD ‘14
  • Trina Leary ’20, MSW ‘22
  • Ca’Dric Moulton ’17, MSE ‘19

This year’s recipient of the Orlean Beeson Award is Ruth Ash, former Dean of the School of Education and retired faculty member. The Jodi Newton Excellence in Character Education Award will be given to Jessica Crocker ’18.

“Our honorees demonstrate that the influence of education extends far beyond a single classroom or profession,” said Dean Anna McEwan. “We are honored to recognize their accomplishments and celebrate the lasting impact they are making in communities near and far.”

This year’s awards dinner will be held at The Club Staterooms, 1 Robert S Smith Dr, Birmingham, AL 35209, Aug. 19, at 6:30 p.m.

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Located in the Homewood suburb of Birmingham, Alabama, Samford is a leading Christian university offering undergraduate programs grounded in the liberal arts with an array of nationally recognized graduate and professional schools. Founded in 1841, Samford enrolls 6,324 students from 44 states, Puerto Rico and 16 countries in its 10 academic schools: arts, arts and sciences, business, divinity, education, health professions, law, nursing, pharmacy and public health. Ranked among U.S. News & World Report’s 35 Most Beautiful College Campuses, Samford fields 17 athletic teams that compete in the tradition-rich Southern Conference and boasts one of the highest scores in the nation for its 97% Graduation Success Rate among all NCAA Division I schools.