Ashley George, associate professor in Samford University’s Department of Communication and Media, has been selected as the 2025 recipient of the Alabama Communication Association’s (ACA) Award for Outstanding Teaching.

The ACA Award for Outstanding Teaching recognizes educators who demonstrate excellence in teaching communication across the state of Alabama. Eligible recipients include full-time communication instructors at all academic levels, from K-12 to higher education. George will officially receive the award during the ACA annual conference on July 26, hosted at the University of Alabama in Huntsville.

George, who joined the Samford faculty in 2014, said the award is a meaningful affirmation of her work both professionally and personally.

“Professionally, it's humbling to know that others believe in the work you do with your students and the way you approach teaching,” she said. “Personally, it's an affirmation of the high value I place on teaching practice and the desire I have to continue to grow as an educator.”

Known for her student-centered and community-driven approach, George emphasizes the importance of cultivating a classroom environment that is both challenging and supportive.

“My teaching approach is relational, and my aim is to cultivate a community of learners who support one another in creative and meaningful ways,” she said. “For me, this award is an encouragement and reminder of the importance of community work in our classrooms.”

Samford’s Department of Communication and Media offers majors in communication studies and journalism and mass communication (JMC). JMC students can choose from tracks in print journalism, broadcast and electronic journalism, public relations and advertising. The department also offers minors in communication studies, film production and sports media.

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