JACKSON, Tenn. (June 11, 2026) – Leaders Education Foundation, a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, has announced six recipients for the EmpowerEd Educator Awards, which recognize outstanding educators who are making an impact in the lives of their schools and students in West Tennessee. The recipients will be recognized at EmpowerEd: An Evening with John O’Leary, presented by EPlus Broadband, on Thursday, September 17, at the Carl Perkins Civic Center in Jackson, Tennessee.
“We’re honored to celebrate these six educators and the meaningful impact they make in their classrooms, their schools, and across our community,” said Leigh Anne Bentley, President of Leaders Education Foundation. “Each of these individuals brings dedication, perseverance, and a deep commitment to the students they serve. We’re excited to recognize them in September and hear from our guest speaker, John O’Leary. Our hope is that this event helps others see just how powerful and lasting the influence of great educators can be.”
The following 2026 EmpowerEd Educator Award recipients have been selected through a nomination and application process and have been considered for their influential roles in their communities for how they’re impacting their students.
Inspiring Students Award | K-12 Educator – Rebecca Taylor
Sponsored by YMCA of Memphis and the Midsouth
Third-Grade Teacher, Idlewild Elementary School | Memphis-Shelby County Schools
Rebecca “Becky” Taylor is a National Board-Certified educator and third-grade teacher at Memphis-Shelby County Schools, where she has served students and families since 2010. With more than 16 years of experience in early childhood and elementary education, she is recognized for her innovative, equity-centered teaching and commitment to whole-child development. Becky serves as a grade-level chair, she mentors fellow educators, and leads programs including Camp Invention, Knowledge Bowl, the school’s math team, and oversees the school’s garden to create engaging, hands-on learning experiences.
Inspiring Students Award | Educational Support – Dr. Trudy Hill-Jones
Sponsored by Byrd and Byrd Attorney at Law PLLC
Professional School Counselor | Memphis-Shelby County Schools
With more than 25 years in education, including 18 years as a dedicated school counselor, Dr. Trudy Hill-Jones is known for her advocacy and commitment to student success. Affectionately called “ya favorite hope dealer,” she champions equity, student voice, and social-emotional learning while working to remove barriers that impact student achievement and well-being. Her leadership has earned statewide and national recognition, including being named Tennessee’s 2025 School Counselor of the Year, along with honors from Forbes Women, the City of Memphis, and National Louis University.
Inspiring Students Award | Workforce Educator – Dr. Teresa McSweeney
Sponsored by Dixie
Chief Innovation Officer | Jackson-Madison County School System
Dr. Teresa McSweeney is recognized for her visionary leadership and commitment to expanding opportunities through innovative education. As Chief Innovation Officer, she has led transformative initiatives that connect classroom learning with real-world application and workforce readiness. Her leadership has resulted in the creation of the STEM Innovation Center and Innovation Impact Institute, giving students expanded access to robotics, engineering, and career-focused learning opportunities. Dr. McSweeney has also secured more than $200,000 in grant funding to support high-demand career pathways.
Inspiring Students Award | Collegiate Educator – Dr. Shawna Adams
Sponsored by West Tennessee Healthcare
Associate Professor of Biology | Dyersburg State Community College
Dr. Shawna Adams is an Associate Professor of Biology at Dyersburg State Community College, where she has served students since 2017. With experience in both secondary and postsecondary education, she is dedicated to making STEM learning accessible, engaging, and meaningful for all students. Known for her mentorship and relationship-centered approach, Dr. Adams creates supportive learning environments that encourage confidence, curiosity, and academic success. Through her teaching and guidance, she continues to inspire students to pursue opportunities in science and lifelong learning.
Impacting Communities Award – Jason Keeton
Sponsored by Jackson-Madison County Schools
Professor of Biology | Jackson State Community College
Jason Keeton serves as a biology professor at Jackson State Community College and the faculty advisor for the college’s Phi Theta Kappa chapter. He is dedicated to fostering leadership and service while helping students grow both academically and personally. Through mentorship and community partnerships, Jason connects students with resources, scholarship opportunities, transfer pathways, and hands-on experiences in healthcare and STEM. He has also developed student-centered initiatives, including scholarship workshops, transfer events, and a “College Survival Guide” to support students, as they navigate college life.
Empowering Schools Award – Dr. Ethan Randall
Sponsored by FORD Tennessee Truck Plant
Principal, Elmore Park Middle School | Bartlett City School System
Dr. Ethan Randall is the principal of Elmore Park Middle School in Bartlett, where he has led the school for thirteen years. With more than two decades of experience in K-8 education, he is recognized for building inclusive, student-centered learning environments that support academic achievement and well-being. Under his leadership, the school has earned multiple years of TVAAS Level 5 growth and recognition as A-rated by the Tennessee Department of Education. Dr. Randall also supports leadership development through mentoring and aspiring administrator programs.
Sponsorships and table reservations are available for EmpowerEd: An Evening with John O’Leary presented by EPlus Broadband. To learn more, visit leadersgives.org/events or email events@leadersgives.org.
Event Details:
- Date: September 17, 2026
- Location: Carl Perkins Civic Center in Jackson, TN
- Schedule: Dinner at 6 p.m. | Program begins at 7 p.m.
- Presented by: EPlus Broadband
About Leaders Education Foundation
Leaders Education Foundation is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, founded in 2019, as a mission-driven organization dedicated to uplifting communities across West Tennessee through education. Guided by its core mission to 'Make Lives Better, Together,' the Foundation invests in the future by supporting students, educators, and educational initiatives.
At the heart of the Foundation’s work are scholarships and educator grants that empower individuals to pursue academic and professional growth. These programs provide critical financial support and recognition to those who are shaping the future through learning and teaching. The Foundation champions educational initiatives that foster innovation, leadership, and community engagement. Through partnerships and programming, it provides resources for meaningful impact in schools and neighborhoods.
For more information about Leaders Education Foundation or to become a member and Give Forward, please visit their website, leadersgives.org.
