AACTE Names Outstanding Book Award After Renowned Educator Gloria J. Ladson-Billings

(July 26, 2022, Washington, D.C.) – The American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education (AACTE) announced today that it named its annual Outstanding Book Award in honor of the prominent American pedagogical theorist and teacher educator Gloria J. Ladson-Billings. Distinguished for her work in the field of education, her expertise is in cultural pedagogy and equity in educator and student instruction, including critical race theory.

The Outstanding Book Award, given annually, recognizes an author or book that makes a significant contribution to the knowledge base of educator preparation. The award, overseen by the AACTE Committee on Research and Dissemination, acknowledges those that offer a fresh lens on current assumptions or practices, reorient thinking in the field, and show potential for significant impact on policy or practice in educator preparation.

Ladson-Billings is the former Kellner Family Distinguished Professor of Urban Education in the Department of Curriculum and Instruction and former Assistant Vice Chancellor of Academic Affairs at the University of Wisconsin, Madison. She is also a Fellow of the American Academy of Arts & Sciences, the American Educational Research Association, and the Hagler Institute of Texas A&M University. Additionally, Ladson-Billings is a member and former President of the National Academy of Education, having served as president from 2017-2021. In 2021 she was elected to the British Academy as a Corresponding Fellow. Recognized as one of the first scholars to introduce critical race theory to education in the 1990s, Ladson-Billings is the author of several books that are renowned in the field of education including The Dreamkeepers: Successful Teachers of African-American Children.

“Gloria Ladson-Billings has been a driving force for change and a fierce advocate for equity and diversity in educator preparation for decades,” said Lynn M. Gangone, AACTE’s president and CEO. “Her numerous books have made a significant impact in the field of education, and we are honored to name this award after her.”

AACTE is currently accepting entries for the 2023 Gloria Ladson-Billings Outstanding Book Award. The deadline to apply is August 19.

###

About AACTE

AACTE (American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education) elevates education and educator preparation through research, professional practice, advocacy, and collaboration with over 650 member institutions and strategic partners. Through its focus on diversity, equity and inclusion, inquiry and impact, and quality and innovation, AACTE seeks to revolutionize education for all learners. The AACTE awards program has been recognizing excellence since 1996 in both member institutions and individuals who have made significant contributions to the field of educator preparation. By honoring notable programs and practices, professional accomplishments and scholarship, these awards encourage AACTE members to strengthen the profession through innovation, leadership and inquiry. Learn more at aacte.org.