MDCC Nursing Instructor Amanda Fondren Named 2026 TROJAN Teacher Award Recipient
Mississippi Delta Community College Associate Degree Nursing instructor Amanda Fondren has been named the recipient of the college’s prestigious 2026 TROJAN Teacher Award.
Fondren was presented the award by MDCC Executive Vice President and Provost Dr. Valarie Morgan during the college’s Faculty and Staff Convocation on Aug. 10.
The TROJAN Teacher Award, an acronym for Teachers Recognized for Optimism, Job Well Done, Academic Excellence and Nurturing Students, recognizes faculty members who demonstrate excellence in teaching, a commitment to student success and active involvement in the MDCC community.
To be eligible for the award, recipients must have served as full-time faculty members at MDCC for at least 10 years and demonstrate involvement in the life of the college through attendance at college functions and participation in committees or student organizations.
Fondren is in her 18th year as a full-time MDCC employee and her 21st year of service to the college overall, including three years as a part-time employee. She currently serves as an instructor in the Associate Degree Nursing program, where she helps prepare students for careers as registered nurses.
“Amanda exemplifies the very best of Mississippi Delta Community College and the spirit of the TROJAN Teacher Award,” Morgan said. “For more than 20 years, she has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to academic excellence, student success and service to others. Her dedication extends far beyond the classroom, as she continually invests her time, expertise and compassion in helping students achieve their goals and become outstanding health care professionals.
“Amanda’s impact can be seen not only in the lives of the hundreds of nurses she has educated, but also in the respect and admiration she has earned from colleagues, students and the community. We are proud to recognize her as the 2026 TROJAN Teacher Award recipient and grateful for the lasting difference she makes at MDCC every day.”
Fondren said receiving the award is especially meaningful because of the colleagues, students and relationships that have shaped her career at MDCC.
“I have the privilege of working alongside so many amazing colleagues,” Fondren said. “Throughout my time at MDCC, I have learned from each of them, both past and present, and I am grateful for the relationships and experiences that have shaped my career.
“I truly believe that we make a difference by helping shape the future of our community. Teaching is so much more than a job to me. It is an act of service and an opportunity to positively impact others by not only sharing knowledge, but also showing kindness, encouraging students to dream big and helping them develop the confidence to achieve those dreams.”
Fondren said the recognition reflects the work and relationships that have defined her years at the college.
“Receiving this award is incredibly meaningful because it represents the work, dedication and relationships that have defined my career at MDCC,” she said. “I am honored and humbled to be recognized for doing something I genuinely love. Teaching has always been about serving others, and I am so very grateful for the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of our students.”
The TROJAN Teacher Award is a longstanding tradition at MDCC that honors faculty members who go above and beyond to educate, encourage and inspire students. Through her dedication to nursing education, student achievement and service to the college, Fondren continues that tradition of excellence.
