SPRINGFIELD, Mo., March 5, 2025 — Drury University proudly announces that alumni Jeana Laughlin ’23 and Madison Wutke ’24 have been recognized as 2025 Outstanding Beginning Teachers by the Missouri Association of Colleges for Teacher Education (MACTE). This prestigious honor celebrates exemplary early-career educators across the state for their commitment to excellence in the classroom and dedication to student success. Laughlin and Wutke were selected for their outstanding contributions to Missouri’s PK-12 education system. Nominated by Drury University’s School of Education and Child Development, both educators have demonstrated remarkable skill, passion, and leadership in their respective classrooms.
Dr. Natalie Precise, Dean of Drury’s School of Education and Child Development, worked closely with both alums while they completed their undergraduate degrees at Drury. She stated, “Laughlin and Wutke were both standouts during their time at Drury University. They clearly possessed the necessary love for education that has truly made them exceptional teachers. What an honor to see them both awarded as 2025 MACTE Outstanding Beginning Teachers.”
The MACTE Outstanding Beginning Teacher Award is presented biennially to first- and second-year teachers who exhibit exceptional professional promise and effectiveness. Honorees were formally recognized during the MACTE Spring Conference on February 17, 2025, in Columbia, Missouri. Following the conference, Laughlin and Wutke will receive an official Outstanding Beginning Teacher gift package, including a certificate and award banner, at their respective schools.
“This achievement reflects my growth — from applying knowledge in the classroom to engaging students and supporting their individual needs,” said Laughlin. “I am deeply grateful to my professors and the Drury Education program. I am thankful for the opportunity to make a lasting impact, helping students grow into creative, confident, and curious learners. I will always cherish the learning and application this program provides, their continuous support, and lifelong friendships in education. I’m forever grateful for Drury University’s education program for my growth and creativity for where I am today.”
“It is such an honor to be recognized for my efforts in my classroom and at Drury,” said Wutke. “The education I received at Drury gave me the skills I needed to succeed in education. I’m able to help my students develop a lifelong love of learning by providing an autonomous learning environment. This is all possible because of the caring and dedicated professors who shaped my view of education during my time at Drury. The knowledge they instilled in me continues to grow through my students.”
Drury University remains committed to preparing the next generation of educators through its rigorous teacher education programs, equipping graduates with the skills and knowledge to excel in the classroom and beyond. To learn more about the MACTE and the Outstanding Beginning Teacher Awards, visit macte.net/outstanding-beginning-teacher-awards/.
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Media Contact: Cris Belvin | Director of Communications & Media Relations | Office: (417) 873-7392 | Email: gbelvin@drury.edu
