Carey alumnus receives MDE Administrator of the Year Award
The Mississippi Department of Education has named William Carey University alumnus Dr. Howard Savage as its 2018 Administrator of the Year. As principal of Quitman High School, Savage led the effort to make big improvements to the school’s rating on the Mississippi Accountability Model.
“Mississippi Public Education has achieved unprecedented outcomes over the last several years and it’s due to the commitment and expertise of outstanding professionals like our honorees this year,” said Dr. Carey Wright, state superintendent of education.
Savage began his career as a classroom teacher before moving into assistant principal and principal roles in Mississippi schools. His philosophy of education and teaching is, “Self-reflection is the key to personal growth.” He believes students, teachers and administrators excel by making personal adjustments. He used this belief to create a recipe for success in Quitman.
“These strategies were the framework in achieving my most rewarding professional experience as an administrator, leading Quitman High School from a three-year consecutive D rating on the Mississippi Accountability Model to a B rating,” Savage said.
Savage earned three degrees at William Carey University: Master of Education in 2014; Education Specialist in 2015; and Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership in 2017.
Dr. Ben Burnett, dean of WCU School of Education, praised his former student: “It was a pleasure not only to teach Dr. Savage, but also to get to know him and see his passion for helping students. He is a true difference-maker and we are proud to have someone who will impact the lives of so many generations to come as a graduate of William Carey.”
The Mississippi Administrator of the Year program honors an administrator who demonstrates superior ability to inspire teachers, to employ exemplary leadership practices and to participate as an active member of the community. The recipient receives a $5,000 stipend and shares expertise through presentations and activities designed to improve education in the state.