The Jack Hill Champion of Education Award honors state leaders who make important long-term contributions to education and to SREB’s work on behalf of the 16-state region. It recognizes leaders who share a commitment to civility, cooperation and public service and who understand the role of long-term state fiscal commitment to education

The award is named for Georgia state Senator Jack Hill and his devotion to improving education in Georgia. He served on SREB’s board for 26 years, including as treasurer and executive committee member, as well as on SREB’s Legislative Advisory Council. Hill died in 2020.

A committee of members of the Board and Legislative Advisory Council nominates and selects recipients annually. 

Recipients

2023

Alan Baker
Alabama

2022

Francis Thompson
Louisiana

2021

Howard Lee
North Carolina