MANCHESTER, Tenn. — A Middle Tennessee State University College of Education alumna has received one of the nation’s most prestigious honors for educators.

Holly Logan, a 2018 graduate of MTSU’s Master of Education Curriculum and Instruction and Educational Leadership program, was recently named a Milken Educator Award recipient. Often called the “Oscars of Teaching,” the award recognizes outstanding K-12 educators across the country and includes an unrestricted $25,000 cash prize.

Logan, who teaches pre-K through fifth-grade English language learners, or ELL, at Westwood Elementary School in Manchester, Tennessee, was surprised with the award during a school assembly on Jan. 21. She is the only recipient in Tennessee for the 2025-26 school year and the first educator from Manchester City Schools to receive the honor.

Known for her dedication to English language learners, Logan supports students both in and out of the classroom, mentors fellow educators, and works closely with families in the community. Her work focuses on building confidence, academic growth, and meaningful connections for students and their families.

“Receiving the Milken Educator Award was a humbling experience I will never forget,” Logan said. “I am grateful for all the educators, colleagues, and mentors who have played a role in developing me professionally. I am also thankful for my students, who keep me passionate about my career and motivate me to improve every day.”

Logan joins a national network of more than 3,000 Milken Educators and will participate in professional development and leadership opportunities through the Milken Family Foundation.

“The support Holly Logan provides for English language learners at Westwood and beyond is invaluable,” said Joshua Barnett, CEO of the National Institute for Excellence in Teaching, who presented the award on behalf of the Milken Family Foundation. “These students know that Holly is on their side — whether she is building confidence, teaching leadership skills, or ensuring families are included and uplifted.”

About the Milken Educator Awards

The first Milken Educator Awards were presented by the Milken Family Foundation in 1987. Created by philanthropist and education visionary Lowell Milken, the awards provide public recognition and a $25,000 individual financial reward to K-12 teachers, principals, and specialists from around the country who are furthering excellence in education.

Recipients are heralded in early to mid-career for what they have achieved and for the promise of what they will accomplish. The Milken Family Foundation celebrates more than 40 years of elevating education in America and around the world. Learn more at MFF.org.

— Karli Sutton (Karli.Sutton@mtsu.edu)