Samford University’s Orlean Beeson School of Education held its annual awards ceremony on Wednesday, April 15, celebrating students who exemplify academic excellence, leadership and character.
Students from the Educational Leadership, Human Development and Family Science, and Teacher Education departments were recognized with awards and scholarships that reflect their commitment to both scholarship and service. Faculty, staff, family members and donors gathered to honor the achievements of these students and the impact they are making within the School of Education and beyond.
Anna McEwan, dean of the School of Education, opened the ceremony with remarks that emphasized the importance of lifelong growth and character formation.
“You remind us that growth is ongoing,” McEwan said. “You don’t think of yourselves as finished products. You know there is still so much more to learn.”
As she addressed the students, McEwan highlighted the school’s commitment to developing both competence and character.
“In the School of Education, character is not secondary to developing your competence,” she said. “Character means we have done our jobs well if we have attempted to cultivate strengths such as integrity, honesty, respect, responsibility and humility toward yourself and others.”
Monique Witherspoon, professor and associate dean of educational leadership, provided the invocation, and Amy Hoaglund, professor and assistant dean of teacher education and accreditation, offered closing remarks.
The ceremony not only celebrated student achievement but also highlighted the community of supporters who make those accomplishments possible. School of Education donors were in attendance, a visible reminder of the generosity that continues to shape the student experience.
Their investment was further reflected in the introduction of three new scholarships, each created to support and encourage students who lead with purpose and character.
The Hope Scholarship recognizes doctoral students pursuing a Doctor of Education who demonstrate a deep commitment to educational leadership and Christ-like character as they prepare to graduate. The Hilton and Norma Green Scholarship supports sophomores and transfer students, with special consideration given to those from families of educators and who reflect strong faith and integrity. The LaFern Stiver Scholarship similarly affirms graduate students who embody character-driven leadership and a commitment to the field of education.
Together, these scholarships represent more than support; they reflect a shared belief in the calling of education and the importance of investing in those who will lead with both excellence and integrity.
The evening served as a meaningful reminder of the School of Education’s mission to prepare graduates who are not only skilled in their disciplines but also grounded in character and called to make a lasting impact in their communities.
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