College of Education (COE)
2026 COE Alumni Awards and Hall of Fame Honorees Announced
The University of Memphis College of Education recognizes alumni and community partners whose leadership and service continue to shape education across Tennessee and beyond.
Tuesday, 26 May 2026 - The University of Memphis College of Education announced the 2026 recipients of its Alumni Awards and the newest inductees into the Alumni Hall of Fame, recognizing graduates and partners whose leadership, service and impact continue to strengthen education and communities.
The University of Memphis College of Education (COE) proudly announced the 2026 recipients of its Alumni Awards and the newest inductees into the College’s Alumni Hall of Fame, recognizing graduates and partners whose leadership, service and impact reflect the mission of the College.
Originally established in 2012, the Alumni Hall of Fame honors individuals who have made lasting contributions to education and their communities. The 2026 honorees mark the first new inductees since 2016 and reflect a renewed commitment to celebrating excellence across the College of Education.
This year’s recipients include Cindy Scott (Distinguished Alumni Award), Dr. Anne McKenna Kenworthy (Outstanding Alumni Award), Dr. Jacque Bradford (Outstanding Early Career Alumni Award) and Josephine Circle (Distinguished Friend of the College).
“This year’s honorees reflect the values and impact of the College of Education,” said Dean Michael Miller, dean of the University of Memphis College of Education. “Their commitment to serving others and making a difference speaks to the role our alumni and partners play in strengthening schools, communities and the future of education.”
Cindy Scott, a Memphis State (now the University of Memphis) graduate of the College of Education, built a distinguished career in collegiate athletics. She served as head women’s basketball coach at Southern Illinois University for 21 seasons, leading the program to multiple conference championships and NCAA Tournament appearances. She later continued her leadership in higher education as associate athletic director and senior women’s administrator at Bentley University, where she mentored student-athletes and supported their success both on and off the court.
Dr. Anne McKenna Kenworthy, a two-time graduate of the University of Memphis College of Education, currently serves as president of Spalding University. Throughout her career, she has held senior leadership roles across multiple institutions and is known for her commitment to student success and access. Her work has helped expand opportunities for students while supporting scholarships and academic programs.
Dr. Jacque Bradford, a 2018 graduate of the College of Education, is recognized for her early career impact in higher education and healthcare. She serves as director of the Doctor of Physical Therapy program at the University of Memphis Lambuth Campus, where she leads efforts to address workforce needs across West Tennessee. Bradford also contributes to national professional organizations, helping shape the future of physical therapy education.
Josephine Circle is honored as the 2026 Distinguished Friend of the College for its longstanding support of the College of Education and its students. Founded in 1914,
the organization has provided scholarships and financial support to future educators, helping remove financial barriers and strengthen the educator pipeline in Memphis and beyond.
Together, these honorees represent the values of the College of Education and mark a renewed chapter for the Alumni Hall of Fame, celebrating those who continue to make a lasting difference in education.
