Samford University’s Orlean Beeson School of Education held its annual awards ceremony Wednesday, April 16.
Students from the Educational Leadership, Human Development and Family Science, and Teacher Education departments received awards honoring academic and character excellence and leadership, and were awarded scholarships that affirm these qualities.
More than 150 students attended, with several receiving awards, honors and scholarships. Anna McEwan, dean of Orlean Beeson School of Education gave opening remarks, with Monique Witherspoon, associate dean, providing the invocation and Amy Hoaglund, assistant dean, offering closing remarks.
“We are so proud of our students,” said Dean McEwan. “They are changing lives and impacting our communities at the most fundamental levels. Our prayers and support will follow them long after they graduate.”
Donors who have faithfully given and worked to endow scholarships for the betterment of Samford and of the lives of students were also in attendance. During this year’s ceremony four new scholarships were presented, including the Luke 8:16 Scholarship. Established by the Orlean Beeson School of Education faculty and staff, the Luke 8:16 Scholarship serves as an encouragement for students to shine brightly as they prepare to fulfill their calling to emerge as leaders with servant hearts.
Additionally, three new scholarships were established by Beth Stukes, a member of the Samford University Board of Trustees. Stukes, a former teacher in the Walker County School system, designated three scholarships to support current and future educators and leaders: the Beth Thorne Stukes Scholarship for Educational Leaders, the Beth Thorne Stukes Scholarship for Elementary Educators and the Beth Thorne Stukes Scholarship for Secondary Educators.
Finally, the year 2025 marks 110 years of Orlean Beeson School of Education, tracing its roots back to the establishment of teacher education programs at Howard College in 1915. To commemorate more than a century of service, the school is partnering with alumni and friends to provide a minimum of 110 scholarships for students pursuing their calling within Samford’s School of Education.
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