School of Education Honors Late Educator's Legacy of Service
Jeanne C. Luckey recognized for lifelong advocacy, leadership in accessibility and commitment to education
OXFORD, Miss. – The University of Mississippi School of Education has posthumously inducted Jeanne Carter Luckey, a champion for accessible education and community service across the state, into its Hall of Fame.
The school also awarded Luckey its 2025 Outstanding Educational Service Award during a ceremony Friday (May 2) on campus.
The School of Education posthumously inducted Jeanne C. Luckey into its Hall of Fame during a ceremony on Friday (May 2). Photo by Don Feitel/School of Education
"A brilliant mind and devoted public servant, Jeanne Luckey advanced education and accessibility for all Mississippians through her exceptional leadership and compassionate heart," Chancellor Glenn Boyce said. "This honor celebrates her powerful legacy of advocacy and service that will continue to inspire generations of educators and students across our state."
Luckey, who died in 2024, earned a degree in special education at the university. She began her career teaching teens and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Ocean Springs Public Schools. Her dedication to education and public service defined her career and community involvement for decades.
Her leadership extended beyond the classroom.
Gov. Phil Bryant appointed Luckey to the board of trustees for the Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning in 2018. As chair of the IHL's ADA Compliance Committee, she worked to advance accessibility and create opportunities for students with disabilities across Mississippi's public universities.
"Jeanne's passion for education touched everyone around her," said David Rock, dean of the School of Education. "She was a steadfast supporter of Ole Miss and our mission, and her life was a powerful example of perseverance, kindness and an unwavering commitment to serving others."
Even after a life-altering accident in 2005 that left her paralyzed, Luckey continued to lead and serve. Her resilience, advocacy and passion for education made a lasting impact throughout Mississippi.
The Outstanding Educational Service Award recognizes those who have demonstrated exemplary service and support for education at the community, state, or national level.
For more about this year's Hall of Fame honorees and a full list of award recipients, click here.
Top: Alwyn Luckey (left) accepts the Hall of Fame award from David Rock, dean of the School of Education. The award honors his late wife, Jeanne C. Luckey, a UM special education graduate and longtime member of the Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning board of trustees. Photo by Don Feitel/School of Education
By
Don Feitel
Campus
Published
May 03, 2025