Davis & Elkins College Class of 2025 member Hannah Phillips has received the Outstanding Future Educator Award from the West Virginia Reading Association (WVRA). This is the inaugural year for the Outstanding Future Educators award category, presented during the WVRA’s annual conference at Oglebay Resort in Wheeling, West Virginia.

Founded in 1968, WVRA’s key focus was improving reading instruction for all students. Over the years, WVRA has evolved, recognizing student achievement in reading and providing professional development for educators. Today, the association remains the oldest professional organization in West Virginia committed to eradicating illiteracy in the Mountain State.

“I feel incredibly lucky to have received this award, as I have always dreamed of becoming an educator,” Phillips said. “I think my professors and many mentors really deserve the credit, as I would not be here without them. I cannot wait to have a classroom of my own!”

Phillips is a senior at Davis & Elkins College majoring in Elementary & Special Education with specializations in Early Childhood and Reading. A resident of Coalton, she brings home the first-ever Outstanding Future Educator Award for the association.

Among the prerequisites for consideration was the submission of five letters of endorsement. Phillips’ hallmark qualities center around her engagement with students, her ability to create environments where all voices are heard and valued, her unbridled professionalism and positivity, and the sincere care that she puts toward her work.

Department Chair of the Education Program Melanie Gribble added, “I am thrilled Hannah was selected as a recipient of this award. It is a testament to her passion for teaching and commitment to literacy. Hannah is a true example of an outstanding student and this achievement highlights the bright future that lies ahead in her teaching career.”

“Among the many outstanding students on the campus of Davis & Elkins College, Hannah Phillips is one of the most special,” shared Davis & Elkins College President Chris A. Wood. “Every young boy or girl that has Ms. Phillips for a teacher will be blessed by her passion, professionalism, and knowledge. I thank the WV Reading Association for selecting Hannah for this award which reflects wonderfully upon her and her professors.”