Distinguished Alumni Awards
The Auburn University College of Education Alumni Awards are designed to honor and recognize graduates who exemplify excellence, leadership, service, and professional impact. These awards celebrate alumni who reflect Auburn’s commitment to transforming lives through teaching, innovation, meaningful community engagement and other endeavors.
We’re seeking nominations for alumni who exemplify the spirit of progress and purpose. Whether they’re advancing research, transforming education, mentoring future leaders, or serving the public good, these individuals deserve recognition.
Since 2014, the College of Education has honored graduates who leave a lasting mark on the world. This year, we continue that tradition—celebrating those who reflect the very best of our academic community.
Every institution has graduates who go above and beyond—leading with vision, driving innovation, and uplifting communities. If someone comes to mind, now’s the time to shine a spotlight on their achievements.
2026 Alumni Award Recipients
CTE Engineering Teacher, James Clemmons High School, Madison, AL
BS Chemistry Education/Chemistry – Auburn University ‘21
Allison Turner is a highly effective STEM educator whose Auburn preparation has translated into exceptional real-world impact in career and technical education. She has built a high-performing engineering academy, created industry partnerships and developed internship pipelines that prepare students for college and workforce success. Her leadership and innovation are evident in statewide student achievements, media recognition and the expansion of female participation in STEM pathways. Turner’s professionalism is reflected in her instructional excellence, student mentorship and service to the broader educational community.
Chemistry Instructor, Central Alabama Community College, Alexander City, AL
PhD Chemistry – University of Alabama; MEd Higher Education – Auburn University ‘13
BA Chemistry – Assumption College
Dr. Jeremy Carr is a forward-thinking educator and scholar whose Auburn graduate education supports a distinguished career in higher education, STEM instruction and research. He has shown exceptional professional impact through large-scale grant funding, national research projects and successfully placing students into competitive professional programs. His leadership includes creating statewide academic pipelines and pioneering experiential STEM initiatives, such as space and microgravity research projects for students. Dr. Carr’s professionalism is evident in his extensive peer-reviewed publications, national presentations and recognition for excellence in teaching and educational innovation.
Educational Engagement Contractor, Rio Rico, AZ
MS Education / Exercise Physiology – Auburn University ‘82
BS Health, Physical Education & Biology – Auburn University
Certificate in Educational Leadership – Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts
Kathy Hoppe is a nationally recognized leader in STEM education, with her Auburn education forming the foundation of over 40 years of professional achievement and service. As the founder of STEMisED and a key architect of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office’s Master Teacher of Invention and Intellectual Property program, she has revolutionized how educators across the country incorporate innovation and intellectual property into K–12 teaching. A former Albert Einstein Distinguished Educator Fellow, she has shown
visionary leadership by developing scalable, federally aligned professional learning systems. Her career
exemplifies outstanding professionalism, with widespread recognition for promoting teacher leadership, equity in STEM and systemic educational innovation.
COO, Friends Life Community, Nashville, TN
Post-Graduate Certificate in Rehabilitation Leadership & Management – Auburn University
MEd Rehabilitation Services – Auburn University ‘05; BS Rehabilitation Services – Auburn University ‘02
Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC); Certified Vocational Evaluator (CVE)
Audria Frattini is a highly accomplished executive leader whose Auburn degrees in rehabilitation services and leadership have driven a career committed to improving outcomes for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. As Chief Operating Officer of Friends Life Community, she has guided extensive organizational growth, system improvements and innovative service models that focus on independence, technology use and person-centered care. Her leadership has shaped policy and practice across multiple states, including pioneering “Technology First” and “Employment First” initiatives. Well known for her professionalism, compassion and strategic vision, she embodies Auburn’s mission through tangible community impact and leadership in the field at a national level.
Nomination Guidelines and Eligibility Criteria
Nominations are open to all alumni of the Auburn University College of Education. Candidates will be evaluated on the following criteria:
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Must hold a degree from the Auburn University College of Education (undergraduate or graduate).
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Must have a minimum of five years of professional experience, unless nominated for the Outstanding Young Alumni Award, which is limited to alumni within 10 years of graduation.
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Must demonstrate sustained contributions and/or leadership in their profession or field of service.
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Must exemplify Auburn values of integrity, innovation, collaboration, and impact.
Each nomination should include:
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Completed Nomination Form (digital only)
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Nominator Statement (500–750 words outlining the nominee’s contributions and impact)
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Nominee’s Résumé or CV (preferred but not required)
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Up to Two Letters of Support
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May come from colleagues, mentees, community leaders, or professional peers
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Optional Supporting Materials (media features, published work, awards, etc.)
Key Details
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Nomination Deadline: Check back for more information this fall.
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Recipients will be honored at the College of Education Awards Celebration in April 2027.
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Questions? Reach out to claudia.hendrix@auburn.edu
Nominate an alum who inspires. Help us tell their story.
Annual Award Timeline
Nominations Open
Nominations Close
ENGAGE Council Awards Committee Review
Final Review and Recommendations Submitted to the Dean
Award Recipients Notified
Award Recipients Announced
Public Announcement Made by the Dean