"Education is for improving the lives of others and for leaving your community and world better than you found it." - Marian Wright Edelman

The University of Memphis collaborates with many local and regional organizations working to improve the quality of, access to, and training for all levels of education. 

Partners in Education

Partnering to increase education in the Memphis, Shelby County, and Mid-South communities is especially valued by the University. 

Countless collaborations have been forged between the University and Shelby County Schools, Memphis City Schools, private and charter schools, other local and regional institutions of higher education, and various organizations serving the interests of students, families, and educators.

A History of Education Transformation

For obvious reasons, education is important to the mission of the University. Educating educators and working with local schools is at the heart of our history.

Known originally as West Tennessee State Normal School, the University of Memphis started as a teachers’ college with a mission to transform West Tennessee through education. As our founding program, the College of Education is proudly celebrating a century of excellence as a national leader in the field of teacher education. 

All colleges at the University of Memphis are committed to innovation and collaboration in education research, as well as in the preparation of professionals for the highest levels of practice in the diverse communities we serve.