WKU News

Western Kentucky University's College of Education and Behavioral Sciences (CEBS) proudly announces the recipients of this year's WKU Distinguished Educator Awards (DEA). These awards honor exemplary P-12 educators within WKU's service region in Kentucky who demonstrate remarkable dedication and contributions to the teaching profession. Now in its fifth year, the DEA received an overwhelming response with a total of 104 nominations across all 10 categories.

Faculty members from the School of Teacher Education meticulously reviewed the nominations to select the finalists and ultimately, the deserving winners. Each winner was chosen for their exceptional commitment and impact in their respective fields.

The winners of the WKU Distinguished Educator Awards, along with their nomination category, school, and district, are as follows:

Melinda Bush – Elementary – North Jackson Elementary – Barren County Schools

Jacqueline Brangers – Middle – West Hardin Middle – Hardin County Schools 

Kelley Bauer – High School – Barren County High – Barren County Schools 

Mike Mantooth – Special Education – Adair County Elementary – Adair County Schools 

Cynthia Wells – PE/Health – Green County Intermediate – Green County Schools 

Kathy Austin – Visual/Performing Arts – Alvaton Elementary – Warren County Schools

Renee Hale – Innovation – Drakes Creek Middle – Warren County Schools

Amy Schallert – Diversity – Natcher Elementary – Warren County Schools 

Robin Crawford – Teacher Mentor – Meece Middle – Somerset Independent Schools 

Briana Pulliam – Literacy – South Hancock Elementary – Hancock County Schools

CEBS Dean, Dr. Corinne Murphy, personally surprised each winner at their school, presenting them with their well-deserved award. In addition to the honor, each recipient received a special prize. Furthermore, their names will be commemorated on a plaque housed in the esteemed Louie B. Nunn Kentucky Teacher Hall of Fame, located in Gary Ransdell Hall.

For more information about the WKU Distinguished Educator Awards, please visit https://www.wku.edu/cebs/educatorawards.php.