Milestones  All Milestones

Dr. L. Denise Fredrick (MO ’99) Receives Pioneer in Education Award from Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education

July 27, 2026

Dr. L. Denise Fredrick (MO ’99) was honored as a Pioneer in Education by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education at the 65th Annual Cooperative Conference for School Administrators. In a press release, Missouri DESE praised Fredrick’s nearly four decades of service as a teacher, district leader, university instructor, and school board member: “She championed curiosity and innovative learning, believing public education opens doors for all.” Now retired, Fredrick remains active through scholarships, volunteerism and board service. Read more about her state honor in the Springfield Daily Citizen. The Pioneer in Education award, presented for more than a half-century, recognizes individuals whose leadership, service and commitment have helped shape and strengthen the state’s public school system.