Vanderbilt collaborates with Nashville Public Education Foundation to honor exceptional educators

Peabody’s Wyatt Center was filled with applause and pride as 25 Metro Nashville Public School teachers took the stage, each celebrated not just for their hard work but also for their profound impact on students and the broader community.  

On Thursday, Oct. 17, Vanderbilt University hosted the annual Blue Ribbon Teacher Awards, presented by the Nashville Public Education Foundation. These awards celebrate teachers who excel in equity, instruction and leadership within Metro Nashville Public Schools.

 This year, 25 outstanding educators were honored by NPEF and MNPS, with commendations shared by representatives from the MNPS school board, the Office of the Mayor and Vanderbilt University. Each educator received a $2,500 award, a trophy and two round-trip airline tickets courtesy of Southwest Airlines. The rigorous selection process identifies teachers who have made a significant impact on their students and the community. 

“We are honored to congratulate this year’s Blue Ribbon Teachers—and to share, on behalf of our entire community, our profound gratitude,” said Vanderbilt University Chancellor Daniel Diermeier as he welcomed guests to the ceremony. “With every lesson and every gesture of support, you make a difference in your students’ success, and we are incredibly proud of the work you do.”

“Congratulations, Blue Ribbon Teachers, on this powerful recognition of the amazing work you do,” MNPS Director of Schools Adrienne Battle said in a special video dedication presented during the event. “You represent the very best of Metro Nashville Public Schools and public education. You pour into your students day after day, helping them not just to learn what they need to know but also to grow into the people they’re meant to be.” 

Ongoing commitment to public education 

Vanderbilt’s long-standing partnership with NPEF for the Blue Ribbon Teacher Awards highlights the university’s ongoing commitment to enhancing education in Metro Nashville Public Schools. Beyond this event, Vanderbilt continues to expand its efforts to support local education through recent initiatives such as a collaboration with John Early Museum Magnet Middle School and the launch of the Nashville Vanderbilt Scholars Program, offering scholarships to eligible MNPS students. These programs build on the university’s ongoing collaborations with the district, including the Nashville Partnership for Educational Equity Research. 

 Additionally, Vanderbilt’s Division of Government and Community Relations participated in NPEF’s annual Public Schools Hall of Fame event in September, honoring educational leaders who have made a lasting impact on Nashville’s public schools. Senior Director of Community Relations Kathleen Fuchs Hritz presented the Nelson C. Andrews Distinguished Service Award to this year’s recipient, Jerry Williams. 

Engage with NPEF 

To learn more about the Nashville Public Education Foundation and how you can support Nashville’s educators, visit nashvillepef.org to find out how you can get involved.