Samford University’s Orlean Beeson School of Education began the fall semester with the school’s annual Learning for Life Awards Dinner.
Since 2015, the school has recognized distinguished alumni and friends who exemplify leadership in the classroom, school administration, churches, mission organizations, nonprofits, businesses, volunteer organizations and more. Honorees are considered for the work they do which makes a significant impact in the lives of others.
“Though recipients’ career paths may differ, each award recipient has made notable strides in their respective fields and communities,” said Kathy Acton, alumni relations coordinator. “We are proud and thankful for the different ways our education graduates impact the world for Christ.”
The celebration began with opening remarks from Anna McEwan, dean of Orlean Beeson School of Education, followed by the invocation delivered by Amy Hoaglund, professor and assistant dean.
Joining the celebration were other university leaders including Betsy Holloway, vice president of Advancement and Marketing; David Cimbora, provost and vice president of academic affair, Marci Johns, senior associate provost, Casey Ramey, executive director of the Samford Alumni Association, and Jewel Littleton, chair of the school’s Dean’s Advisory Board. Also in attendance were Roy Barnes, the former governor of Georgia, and his wife, Marie. The Barnes’ attended the event in support of their daughter, Alyssa Barnes, who was an honoree.
2024 Learning for Life Honorees
Alyssa Barnes ’01
Alyssa Barnes is a dedicated educator and advocate with a career centered on inclusion, equity and supporting students with disabilities. She earned her undergraduate degree at Samford University, followed by a master’s degree focusing on multiple and severe disabilities from the University of Virginia. After co-teaching in Georgia's first full-inclusion school, she spearheaded the Wrinkle in the Quilt Playground project, raising over $1 million for an inclusive playground in Atlanta. Barnes earned her doctorate at the University of Georgia and has since made significant contributions at the University of North Georgia, including co-developing the dyslexia endorsement program. An award-winning teacher and mental health advocate, she also founded SPROUT Educational and Therapeutic Services, where she continues advocating for students with learning disabilities.
April Dean ’05
April Dean graduated from Samford University with a degree in early childhood, elementary and special education, and has since dedicated her career to shaping young minds. Beginning as a special education teacher in 2005, she now teaches fourth grade science at East Elementary School in Cullman, Alabama, where her excellence in education has been recognized with honors such as Cullman City Schools Elementary Teacher of the Year, Alabama District 6 Elementary Teacher of the Year and finalist for Alabama Teacher of the Year in 2022. Dean's passion for teaching integrates her diverse interests—from marine biology and interior design to journalism and broadcasting—into her classroom. She engages her students with creativity, making learning both fun and impactful. Dean embodies the belief that the best teachers use all their skills to inspire their students.
Brooke Dunham MSE ’09
Brooke Dunham began her educational journey as a music teacher with Shelby County Schools and later earned a master’s degree in educational leadership from Samford University. She achieved national board certification before embracing the pivotal role of wife and mother. Alongside her husband, William, who teaches at Oak Mountain High School, she is raising three children—CJ, Will and Walter—whom she considers her greatest success. After 16 years of teaching, Dunham transitioned into leadership roles, serving as assistant principal at Helena Elementary before becoming principal of Inverness Elementary School. In addition to her educational career, she is an author of two books: Lessons in Suffering, a devotional based on personal loss, and Exile, a study on biblical exiles and their lessons for today. While honored to receive this award, Dunham remains committed to lifelong learning and growth, embodying the spirit of the Learning for Life award.Marie Feagins EdD ’20
Marie Feagins began her tenure as superintendent of Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS), bringing with her a wealth of experience and a track record of transformative leadership. Before joining MSCS, Feagins served as chief of leadership and high schools for Detroit Public Schools, where her “whole-soul” leadership style led to significant improvements, including increased graduation rates, enhanced math and literacy proficiency and strengthened college and career readiness. Her efforts also included finalizing a multibillion-dollar facilities plan and boosting employee retention. Feagins holds a Doctorate of Education in educational leadership from Samford University and has advanced degrees in school counseling and business administration. Her strategic vision and collaborative approach continue to drive positive change in the communities she serves.
Jason Harchuck MSE ’19
Jason Harchuck is the lead special education teacher and 12th grade case manager at Pelham High School, where his dedication to education is seen as a true calling. Harchuck earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Montevallo in 2012 and initially worked in the mortgage industry, where he developed strong professionalism and work ethic. His passion for special education was ignited through volunteering with a local special needs organization, leading him to change careers and pursue a master’s degree at Samford University in 2018. Known for his servant’s heart, Harchuck is committed to improving the lives of his students and colleagues. He recently collaborated with the University of Alabama at Birmingham on a research grant to explore the effects of virtual reality gaming on students with mobility challenges. In 2023, he was honored as Pelham High School’s Teacher of the Year and nominated as a Shelby County Educator of the Year. Beyond the classroom, Harchuck serves as the head coach of the girls' golf team, guiding them to historic achievements, including reaching the sub-state round twice in four seasons. He is also a devoted husband to his wife, Marcie, and a loving father to their two children, Annie and Owen.Nicole Howell ’15
Nicole Howell was recently hired as a school counselor for Vestavia Hills City Schools and is also a licensed professional counselor with a rich background in supporting youth in crisis. She holds degrees from Samford University, the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) and the University of West Alabama. Howell’s expertise includes crisis management, working with students facing stress and anxiety, facilitating group counseling and collaborating with administration, faculty, families and community professionals. During her time at Samford, she was a member of the School of Education’s Dean’s Junior Advisory Board and received the Frances Marlin Mann Ethics and Leadership Award. At UAB, she served as president of the Zeta Chapter of Chi Sigma Lota and earned the exemplary graduate student award. Howell has made significant contributions in her previous roles, including initiating a therapy dog program that served over 1,000 students, planning the first career fair at Rudd Middle School and creating district-wide protocols for threat assessment in Pelham City Schools. She also developed innovative programming such as Suicide Prevention Week, Kindness Week and Children’s Mental Health Week. Howell lives in Bluff Park, Alabama, with her husband, Jared, and their toddler, Greyson.Kari Knowlton ’90
Kari Knowlton, a 1990 graduate of Samford University with a degree in fashion merchandising and a business minor, serves as the Director of Business Development at Avanti Press, where she has worked for 13 years. Active in her alma mater’s community, she chairs the Nashville Alumni Board of Directors and serves on the Samford University Alumni Association Executive Council. Knowlton She has been recognized in her industry by receiving the Champion of Change Award from Winsight Publication, as well as receiving the Salesperson of the Year and the Excellence in Leadership award from Papyrus. In addition to her success in her career field, Knowlton has devoted much of her life to philanthropic pursuits. She lives in Nashville, where she lives with her husband, Todd. Together, they lead the National League of Junior Cotillion in Sumner County and Knowlton is also involved in the Junior League and volunteers at Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital; just to name a few of the ways she regularly gives back to her community.Gregory Moore EdD ’21
Gregory Moore, a native of Leeds, Alabama, began his educational journey on a basketball scholarship at Faulkner University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in English. His teaching career started at Moody High School, where he also served as head boys’ basketball coach while completing his master’s degree in secondary English language arts at UAB. Moore went on to E.B. Erwin High School as an English teacher and head boys’ basketball coach, later earning his administration certification. He served as an assistant principal at Pinson Valley High School for eight years, obtaining an Education Specialist degree in educational leadership. After roles at Chalkville Elementary School and Springville Elementary, where he began his doctoral studies at Samford University, Moore became principal of Springville High School and completed his doctorate in educational leadership. His accomplishments include receiving the Maurice Persall Scholarship, serving on Samford’s Dean of Education’s advisory committee, working as an adjunct professor, and serving as AASSP Vice President for District XI. He is the 2024 CLAS Alabama High School Principal of the Year.
Kevin Pughsley ’06, MSE ’07
Kevin Pughsley, a distinguished educator with 18 years of teaching experience, has profoundly impacted both students and colleagues. Overcoming his own struggles with ADHD, Pughsley was inspired by two high school teachers to become an educator who engages students with energy and enthusiasm. After earning his degrees from Samford University on a football scholarship, he has dedicated himself to teaching and mentoring, currently at Berry Middle School. Recognized as Alabama Science Teacher of the Year in 2018 and a recipient of the Presidential Award for Excellence in Math and Science Teaching in 2019, Pughsley continues to inspire through his innovative teaching methods and commitment to student feedback. His journey reflects his deep faith, unwavering dedication, and the support of his family and mentors.
Marye Grace Sauermann ’20
Marye Grace Sauermann, a 2020 graduate of Samford University with a bachelor's degree in human development and family science, has made significant contributions to the nonprofit sector through her work with Unless U. Beginning as a practicum student in 2018, Sauermann developed a strong commitment to supporting adults with disabilities and has since advanced to the role of director of marketing and development. Her dedication has been crucial in advancing the organization’s mission and enhancing its impact in the Birmingham community. Recognized for her leadership and service during her academic career, Sauermann is also an active member of Redeemer Community Church and is married to her Samford sweetheart, Brandon Sauermann.
Additional awards distributed at the annual Learning for Life banquet include the Orlean Beeson Award and the Jodi Newton Excellence in Character Education Award. The Orlean Beeson Award recognizes non-alumni, faculty, staff and friends who have demonstrated a steadfast commitment to serving education students and furthering the school’s mission. The Jodi Newton Excellence in Character Education Award was honors a graduate who embodies Christ-like virtues and excels in advancing character education in families, schools and communities.
Orlean Beeson Award Honorees
Carol and Joe (’62) Dean
Joe and Carol Dean, both graduates of the University of Montevallo, have dedicated their lives to education and service. Joe earned a degree in pharmacy from Samford University in 1962 and later obtained a Ph.D. from the University of Alabama. He practiced pharmacy for 14 years before joining Samford’s faculty in 1975. Joe served as dean of the McWhorter School of Pharmacy from 1991 until his retirement in 2006, leading significant advancements, including the implementation of the Doctor of Pharmacy degree. His contributions to pharmacy education have been recognized with numerous awards, including the Bowl of Hygeia and induction into the Alabama Healthcare Hall of Fame.
Carol earned a doctorate in educational administration from the University of Alabama in Birmingham and taught in public schools for 25 years. She joined Samford in 1992, focusing on placing students in clinical settings and eventually chaired the Teacher Education department. Passionate about student learning and critical thinking, Carol was an early adopter of Problem-Based Learning, which she integrated into her courses. She has also led educational workshops worldwide, notably in Uganda, where she continues to support teachers and students.
In retirement, Joe and Carol enjoy traveling and spending time with their three children, five grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. They remain active in their community, with Carol serving on the board of Greater Birmingham Ministries and Joe involved in various educational and health-related boards.
Jodi Newton Excellence in Character Education Award Honoree
Benjamin White, MSE ’19, EdD ’23
Benjamin White, a resident of Northport, Alabama, is a clinical assistant professor of education leadership at the University of Alabama and a Fellow of the Hope Institute. With over 15 years in public education, he has served as an elementary teacher, assistant principal, and principal before joining UA's education faculty. White earned his degree in marketing from Mississippi State University, followed by a master’s in education from Middle Tennessee State University, and his Ed.S. and Ed.D. from Samford University. His passion for character education, sparked during his time at the Hope Leadership Academy, led to Walker Elementary being recognized as a State and National School of Character in 2020. At UA, he collaborates with schools nationwide, presents on character education, and supports its implementation across Alabama. White is honored to receive this award in memory of his mentor and friend, Jodi Newton.
During the Learning for Life ceremony, current student and scholarship recipient Thomas Vaccaro shared his Samford story. Vaccaro, a sophomore secondary education major, remarked on how Samford has changed his life and he thanked donors who have made this experience attainable through faithful giving.
“The biggest thing that I have taken away from my experience at Samford is God's continued confirmation of my desire to teach,” said Vaccaro. “I would like to take this moment to thank all the donors who have not only made my Samford education possible but also affected the lives of thousands of students.”
Award recipients were presented with a certificate and distinguished medallion of honor. Following the presentation of awards, guest speaker David Cimbora, Samford University’s new provost and vice president of academic affairs, provided the keynote address. Monique Gardner Witherspoon, associate professor and associate dean, provided the closing prayer.
We invite you to join us in celebrating the Kingdom work of our Orlean Beeson School of Education students, faculty, staff, alumni and friends by making a tribute gift. Your support will allow us to continually invest in the success of our students, providing scholarships and academic resources where the needs are greatest.
