The W honors early childhood educators at 2026 CHEER Conference

Mississippi University for Women, through the Center for Education Support (CES), recognized outstanding early childhood professionals at the 2026 CHEER Conference, held Saturday, April 18.

“This work matters because it happens at the very beginning,” said Penny Mansell, director of the Center for Education Support. “The educators in these classrooms are shaping how children experience learning, relationships and confidence. That foundation stays with them.”

Finalists for the 2026 Early Childhood Educator of the Year represented programs across the community and multiple age groups.

In the infant category, honorees included Diane Moore and Autumn Wright, both of Bright Beginnings. In the toddler category, Hailey Wilson of Bright Beginnings was recognized, along with a posthumous honor for Maia Murray of Lisa’s Christian Learning Center. Murray, who served children and families for seven years, was remembered for her lasting impact on the community. Her director, Deletha Stevenson, accepted the award on her behalf.

Preschool finalists included Amiee Cox of ABC & Me and Anita Thomas of The Assembly Kids Academy. In the prekindergarten category, finalists were Tori Barrett of Open Arms Christian Learning Center and Haley O’Mary of The W’s Child & Parent Development Center.

Barrett was named the 2026 Early Childhood Educator of the Year. Nominations highlighted her patience, consistency and ability to create a classroom environment where children feel safe, confident and ready to learn. With a background in pediatric nursing, Barrett was recognized for meeting each child’s individual needs while preparing them for long-term success.

The 2026 Director of the Year award was presented to Shelly Pugsley of Open Arms Christian Learning Center in recognition of decades of leadership in early childhood education. As she enters retirement, Pugsley was honored for her long-standing commitment to children, families and the early learning community.

A new community recognition was also introduced during the event. The inaugural Early Childhood Champion Award was presented to Dr. Josie Shumake for her lifelong service and advocacy in education and early literacy. A Columbus native and former international public relations diplomat with the U.S. Department of State, Shumake has served on the Columbus Municipal School District Board of Trustees and remains actively engaged with the Columbus-Lowndes Chamber of Commerce, the Excel By 5 coalition and the Lowndes Community Foundation. In recognition of her impact, the award will be permanently named the Dr. Jo Shumake Early Childhood Champion Award.

The CHEER Conference is an annual event hosted by The W’s Center for Education Support, bringing together early childhood educators, community leaders and partners to celebrate the workforce and strengthen early learning across the region.