Fall Awards Day Celebrates Excellence
Fall Awards Day Celebrates Excellence at The W’s School of Education
Columbus, Mississippi – The School of Education at The W (Mississippi University for Women) hosted its Fall Awards Day on November 13, celebrating the achievements of its education students and highlighting the university’s role in preparing teachers for the East Mississippi and West Alabama region.
“Awards Day is all about celebrating our students’ hard work and dedication. We’re proud to honor their accomplishments and commitment to becoming outstanding educators,” said Dr. Marty Hatton, Dean of the School of Education.
The event recognized standout students in the three elementary education blocks, the Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) program, and early childhood, elementary, and secondary internships. Students were nominated by faculty and mentor teachers based on their character, professional growth, and teaching skills.
“What makes The W special is that most of our education students—96% in the last 3 years—stay right here in East Mississippi and West Alabama,” said Dr. Bob Fuller, Chair of the School of Education. “We’re a regional university, and our graduates are going back into their communities to make a difference for the next generation. That’s something worth celebrating.”
A highlight of The W’s education programs is the Residency courses, which give students real-world classroom experience alongside their academic studies. This unique setup helps students apply what they’re learning and prepares them to confidently step into teaching roles after graduation.
Following the awards ceremony, students had the opportunity to meet with local schools to explore job opportunities in the region.
“The W continues to produce incredible educators ready to step into classrooms and lead. Our graduates are highly skilled and passionate about teaching, and we’re proud of their impact on our schools and communities,” Dr. Hatton added.
Fall Awards Day is one of the many ways The W celebrates its students and their journey toward becoming the teachers the region needs.
The exceptional students in their program for Fall 2024:
Early Childhood Education
Alesia Shambry, West Point, MS– Outstanding Overall Student
Elizabeth Franks, Sturgis, MS
Block 1
Maggie Montesi, Indianola, MS – Outstanding Overall Student
Elizabeth (Liz) Arrexi, Feltwell, England
Jessica Shirley, Gordo, AL
Lexie Angle, Columbus, MS
Mary Smith, Wesson, MS
Block 2
Jayde Richardson, New Albany, MS – Outstanding Overall Student
Mallory Lauderdale, Tupelo, MS
Sierra Poire, Starkville, MS
Audrey Mitchell, Columbus, MS
Block 3
Audrey Foreman, Columbus, MS – Outstanding Overall Student
Allison Sprouse, Millport, AL
Chloe Minich, Nettleton, MS
Diamond Rayford, Kosciusko, MS
Emily Goss, Batesville, MS
Haley Kelley, Diamondhead, MS
Kayla Branham, Amory, MS
Laila Luckett, Gulfport, MS
Reagan Greenhaw, Columbus, MS
Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT)
Skye Berquist, Columbus, MS – Outstanding Overall Student
Early Childhood Internship
Alesia Shambry, West Point, MS- Outstanding Overall Student
Elizabeth Franks, Sturgis, MS
Elementary Internship
Haylie Crimm, Millport, AL – Outstanding Overall Student
Brieanna Williams, Nettleton, MS
Cally Thompson, Smithville, MS
Macie Manasco, Mathiston, MS
Addie Coxey Bunch, Pontotoc, MS
Secondary Internship
Breely Smith, Hamilton, MS – Outstanding Overall Student (English)