MONTGOMERY, Ala. —  Dr. Chad Holden, executive director of the Alabama Association of School Boards (AASB), was honored to receive Samford University’s Learning for Life Award, which recognizes distinguished alumni who have made a notable impact in their fields, communities and beyond.

Holden, a 2018 graduate of Samford University’s Orlean Beeson School of Education, was honored alongside a select group of distinguished alumni, recognizing graduates whose careers reflect its commitment to making a difference through education.

“I am deeply honored to receive an award that embodies what it means to be an educator—to invest in others while remaining a lifelong learner yourself continually,” Holden said. “Education is about growing and helping others reach their full potential. Samford has been an important part of that journey, and I am grateful for the people, mentors and experiences that have helped shape my calling to serve students, educators and communities across Alabama.” 

A lifelong advocate for public education, Holden brings more than two decades of experience as an educator, administrator, superintendent and school board member to his role at AASB. Before becoming AASB’s executive director earlier this year, he spent 24 years serving students in Muscle Shoals City Schools, including nearly a decade as superintendent. He also served on the Lauderdale County Board of Education, giving him firsthand experience on both sides of the partnership between school boards and district leadership. 

His doctoral experience at Samford University reinforced the philosophy that being a consummate student is an essential part of being an effective leader. The experience broadened his perspective on leadership and the profound responsibility educators have to their students and communities.

“Education has given me so much, and I consider it a privilege to give back through service,” Holden said. “I am grateful for the opportunity to continue that work with AASB and alongside the school board members and educational leaders who are helping shape the future of public education in Alabama.”

Anna McEwan, dean of Orlean Beeson School of Education, encouraged attendees to celebrate the recognition but to also view it as a reminder of the lasting influence of their work. “I hope tonight is more than a celebration. I hope it is a catalyst,” McEwan said. “A catalyst that causes us to stop in the midst of very busy lives and remember why this work matters. A catalyst that reminds us that the work we do today can create possibilities we may never live to see.”