Published on November 21, 2016 by Katie Stewart  
vic wilson

An alumnus and a current doctoral student from Samford University’s Orlean Beeson School of Education were recently recognized for exceptional educational leadership within their communities. 

Vic Wilson was named the School Superintendents of Alabama Superintendent of the Year for his outstanding achievement in advancing public education. Wilson received this recognition based on nominations from the School Superintendents of Alabama’s nine districts. 

Wilson received his master’s degree from Samford in 2000 and his doctorate in educational leadership in 2012. He is now the superintendent of the Hartselle, Alabama, school system. 

Charles Andrew Gardner, a current student in the doctoral program for educational leadership, was recognized for his distinguished leadership as principal of Hokes Bluff Elementary School in Hokes Bluff, Alabama. 

He is one among 58 principals in the nation chosen to be recognized as a 2016 National Distinguished Principal. The National Association of Elementary School Principals will honor him in Washington, D.C., for his superior contribution to his school and community. He will have the opportunity to share his tactics on achieving the highest influence possible on his students, school and community. 

Katie Stewart is marketing and communication coordinator for Orlean Beeson School of Education.

 
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 is the 87th-oldest institution of higher learning in the United States. Samford enrolls 6,101 students from 45 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. Samford fields 17 athletic teams that compete in the tradition-rich Southern Conference and ranks 6th nationally for its Graduation Success Rate among all NCAA Division I schools.