Radford University educator preparation programs receive national recognition for excellence and continuous improvement

Radford University's educator preparation programs have received the Frank Murray Leadership Recognition for Continuous Improvement from the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), a national accrediting body that recognizes excellence in educator preparation. The recognition was presented during the fall 2026 CAEPCon conference in Arlington, Virginia. The award honors educator preparation providers that demonstrate strong evidence-based practices and achieve accreditation with no stipulations or areas for improvement.

This award follows consecutive CAEP accreditation reviews in 2020 and 2026 in which Radford University's educator preparation programs met every CAEP standard at both the initial-licensure and advanced levels, receiving no areas for improvement or stipulations in either review. These results reflect a sustained record of excellence in educator preparation and the university's ongoing commitment to evidence-based program improvement.

"While we are honored to receive this national recognition, what makes it especially meaningful is what it represents," said Tamara K. Wallace, dean of the College of Education and Human Development. "This recognition reflects years of intentional work by faculty, staff, students, alumni and school partners who share a commitment to preparing outstanding educators. That commitment shapes how we approach educator preparation every day."

Recipients of the Frank Murray Leadership Recognition are selected from educator preparation providers that have recently earned CAEP accreditation and demonstrated evidence of continuous improvement through self-study, assessment and data-informed decision-making. Providers receiving the recognition achieve accreditation with no stipulations or areas for improvement and demonstrate a commitment to strengthening outcomes for P-12 learners through rigorous program evaluation and improvement.

Radford University's educator preparation programs are housed within the College of Education and Human Development, which prepares teachers, educational leaders, school counselors and other professionals who serve schools and communities throughout Virginia and beyond. Through close partnerships with school divisions and community organizations, the college emphasizes high-quality clinical experiences, evidence-based practice and responsive program improvement to prepare professionals who can meet the evolving needs of learners.

"This recognition belongs to our entire educator preparation community, including faculty, staff, students, alumni and school partners," Wallace said. "Ultimately, the value of educator preparation is measured by its impact. We are proud to prepare professionals who strengthen schools, support learners and make a positive difference in the communities they serve."

The Frank Murray Leadership Recognition for Continuous Improvement is named in honor of Frank Murray, a leader in educator preparation accreditation and an advocate for rigorous standards and continuous improvement in the preparation of educators.