Nominations open for program honoring outstanding educators

LEXINGTON, Ky. (Dec. 16, 2025) — The University of Kentucky College of Education is once again inviting the public to celebrate outstanding educators through the Teachers Who Made a Difference program. Nominations are being accepted through Jan. 31 or until the event reaches capacity. 

For more than two decades, the program has highlighted the impact of K-12 teachers, school leaders, coaches, school staff, childcare professionals, college faculty and others who contribute to students’ growth and success. 

“Teachers make the world work and help dreams come to life,” said UK College of Education Dean Nicholas J. Pace, Ed.D. “The Teachers Who Made a Difference event is an opportunity to celebrate these difference makers. For more than 100 years, the UK College of Education has prepared top quality teachers to change lives across the Commonwealth and beyond. We’re proud to continue that legacy and recognize these remarkable people.” 

There is no formal selection process, however, because the number of honorees is limited, organizers encourage nominators to recognize just one educator each year. Nominees do not have to be UK alumni or Kentucky residents. 

“This celebration gives people a meaningful way to thank someone who encouraged them, believed in their abilities or helped them reach new goals,” said Mary Ann Vimont, associate professor and alumni director of the College of Education. “We have honored teachers from across the country and around the world — whether they are currently teaching or retired.” 

Founded by Vimont in 1998 and supported through private donations, the Teachers Who Made a Difference program continues to shine a light on the transformative power of educators. 

This year’s nominees will be invited to a recognition ceremony in March (details to be announced). For more information, contact Thomas Cantrell at thomas.cantrell@uky.edu or 859-257-7681.