The College of Education proudly hosted the 2025 Alumni Awards ceremony, recognizing exceptional alumni whose leadership, innovation and service have made a lasting impact in education and beyond. The event, presented by the Capstone Education Society, featured awards for Outstanding Alumni, Top Alumni Under 40 and special honors such as the Harold L. Bishop Award for Leaders and the James McLean Excellence in Education Award.

Honoring Visionary Leaders

The Harold L. Bishop Award for Leaders was presented to Charles K. Longshore, principal of Hayden Middle School. With over two decades of experience, Longshore has transformed school culture through restorative practices and visionary leadership. His efforts have earned statewide and national recognition, including being named the 2024 AASSP Assistant Principal of the Year.

Excellence in Education

The James McLean Excellence in Education Award went to Dr. Toni M. Torres-McGehee, associate dean at the University of South Carolina. A nationally recognized scholar and leader, Dr. Torres-McGehee has advanced athletic training education and public health initiatives, securing over $15 million in research funding and mentoring more than 100 graduate students.

Young Alumni Making an Impact

Dr. Elizabeth McDonald, assistant director of instructional design at UA Online, received the Young Alumni Award for her leadership in transitioning over 700 courses to Blackboard Ultra, enhancing online learning for thousands of students.

Top Alumni Under 40

This year’s honorees include:

• Rev. Thomas L. Davis Jr., program manager for UA Early College, known for his commitment to student success and community engagement.
• Farah Downs, licensed school psychologist and founder of Maitland Mental Health Co., recognized for her advocacy in mental health and equity.
• Rachel Goggins, kindergarten teacher at Woodland Forest Elementary, celebrated for her dedication to literacy and mentoring future educators.
• Dr. Kimberly Odom, visiting assistant professor at the University of Southern Mississippi, championing equitable access for youth with emotional and behavioral disorders.
• Dr. Daniela Susnara, director of planning and assessment for Community Engagement at UA, advancing civic engagement and leadership development.
• Jordan A. Watkins, public relations and fundraising manager and CEO of The Patience Project, driving innovation and equity in education.
• Dr. Jessika White, marketing and communications manager for UA Online, recognized for strategic leadership in enrollment growth and digital campaigns.