Educators are Essential 2025 – School of Education

Educators Are Essential Conference Highlights Local Support for Teachers

COLUMBUS, Miss. – The Columbus Lowndes Chamber of Commerce Education Committee hosted its annual Educators Are Essential conference on September 13, 2025, at Mississippi University for Women. More than 140 educators attended the half-day conference, which included a resource fair, swag bags, and over $10,000 in donated prizes and incentives from community businesses.

Speakers included Dr. Rita Felton, retired U.S. Air Force Command Chief Master Sergeant and leadership coach, and Chris Chism, Superintendent of Pearl Public School District. Felton spoke on leadership and resilience, while Chism highlighted innovation in schools, with a focus on educational technology and artificial intelligence.

“The way our community and local businesses work together to give educators the attention they deserve is wonderful,” said Penny Mansell, Director of the Center for Education Support. “We need our teachers to stay in the profession and feel supported, and events like this help make that possible.”

The Chamber’s Education Committee led all planning, sponsorships, and programming. The Center for Education Support supported the committee on-site by assisting with venue setup, decorations, and day-of logistics.

About the School of Education at The W

The W’s School of Education has led lifelong learning for over 140 years. Dedicated to education from early childhood through post-graduation, we inspire excellence through teacher preparation, professional development, and community enrichment. Our programs empower educators and learners to grow, lead, and make a lasting impact across the region.