FHU's pioneering educators lead Tennessee Teacher Education Association
Dr. Amy Downey
Dr. Sharen Cypress
HENDERSON, Tenn. — (April 25, 2024) — In a highly unusual move, both of Tennessee's teacher education professional organizations have elected presidents from the same university. Freed-Hardeman College of Education and Behavioral Sciences and dean of the College of Education took over the reins of both organizations.
Dr. Sharen Cypress, professor of education and dean of the School of Educational and Behavioral Sciences at FHU, has been elected president of the Tennessee Association of Colleges of Teacher Education (TACTE). TACTE is the state's leading advocacy organization for teacher training colleges. Cypress, who has been actively involved with TACTE for 25 years, is the association's first African-American president. She is dedicated to advocating for educator preparation in higher education institutions and K-12 schools across the state.
At the same time, Dr. Amy Downey, FHU Associate Professor of Education and Dean of the College of Education, was elected president of the Tennessee Association of Independent Colleges of Teacher Education (TAILACTE). Downey is a former educator and school leader in Metro Nashville Public Schools and is excited to continue his passion for education and leadership in his new role.
FHU President David R. Shannon said: We thank Dr. Cypress and Dr. Downey for their dedication to the profession and their desire to improve teacher education programs across the state. ”
Both Cypress and Downey said they are honored to represent the university in the state as they continue to serve in leadership roles at FHU.
Freed-Hardeman University's Educator Preparation Program is fully accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP, formerly NCATE). Additionally, the Tennessee Department of Education has approved all licensure programs offered by the university.
The university's history in teacher training dates back to 1870. When A.G. Freed and his N.B. Hardman joined forces to found the school in 1908, they named it the National Teachers' Normal and Business College. In 1955, the Tennessee State Board of Education approved Freed's Hardman teacher education program. This certification by the state Department of Education continues that accreditation. The National Accreditation Council for Teacher Education (NCATE, now known as CAEP) first accredited the program on a national level in 1981.
The mission of Freed-Hardeman University is to help students develop their God-given talents for the glory of God by empowering them with an education that integrates Christian faith, scholarship, and service. . His FHU, based in Henderson and Memphis, offers associate's, bachelor's, master's, professional and doctoral degrees. For more information, visit fhu.edu.
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