The national recognition was presented Sept. 17 during CAEPCon 2026 in Arlington, Virginia, and honors educator preparation providers that achieve CAEP accreditation with no stipulations or areas for improvement and demonstrate a strong, evidence-based commitment to continuous improvement.
“The Frank Murray Leadership Recognition is meaningful because it recognizes more than an accreditation outcome. It reflects a culture of excellence and continuous improvement,” said Dr. Kelly Bradley, dean of Marshall’s College of Education and Professional Development. “I am incredibly proud, but this recognition belongs to our team — our faculty, staff, students, educational partners, alumni and community.”
Recipients of the Frank Murray Leadership Recognition for Continuous Improvement are selected from recently accredited institutions that demonstrate excellence in educator preparation through the purposeful use of data, self-study and continuous improvement practices.
Bradley said the recognition reflects the college’s commitment to continually strengthening its programs and preparing the next generation of educators.
“We have faculty and staff who are constantly asking how we can make our programs stronger and better prepare the next generation of educators,” Bradley said. “This work reflects Marshall’s commitment to student success, educational excellence, innovation and meaningful community engagement.”
Marshall’s educator preparation programs earned CAEP accreditation with no stipulations or areas for improvement. The college’s continuous-improvement efforts include listening to students, partnering with schools and communities, examining program outcomes and using evidence to guide changes. The recognition also provides momentum for the college as it looks to build on its existing strengths and continue improving opportunities for students.
“This award is something we are proud of, and it gives us real momentum to build on our strengths, raise our expectations and continue creating stronger programs and better opportunities for our students,” Bradley said.
Bradley said the impact of that work extends beyond the university and into the classrooms where Marshall graduates will serve.
“Every time we make one of our preparation programs stronger, that improvement has the potential to reach a student in a classroom,” Bradley said. “That is the impact that matters most.”
Bradley accepted the recognition on behalf of Marshall University along with Dr. Paula Lucas, chair of undergraduate teacher education, and Dr. Timothy Melvin, director of assessment.
For more information about Marshall University’s College of Education and Professional Development, click here.
###