UNCP Graduates Named Finalists for NCCAT Award

Two recent UNC Pembroke School of Education graduates have been named finalists for the North Carolina Center for the Advancement of Teaching (NCCAT) Beginning Teacher of the Year Award, a statewide honor for exceptional early-career educators.

Rhyane Jacobs and Ellie McPherson, both 2024 graduates of UNCP’s undergraduate elementary education program, are among 27 finalists selected from across North Carolina. The award recognizes new teachers who excel in teaching, support student success and value lifelong learning.

Jacobs is a third-grade teacher at Union Chapel Elementary School in the Public Schools of Robeson County. McPherson teaches first grade at Whiteville Primary School in Whiteville City Schools.

“This recognition is deeply meaningful because it reminds me why I chose this profession — to inspire students to persevere and believe they can succeed,” Jacobs said. “UNCP provided an exceptional foundation through supportive professors and rigorous preparation that helped me enter the classroom ready to teach, lead and, most importantly, have fun doing so.”

McPherson emphasized the importance of preparation, mentorship and purpose in her teaching career.

“I believe effective teaching requires a deep love for students and a lifelong commitment to helping them learn,” McPherson said. “I am grateful for the family, educators, mentors and faith that have shaped me, and for the preparation I received at UNCP that continues to guide me in the classroom.”

The NCCAT Beginning Teacher of the Year Award, sponsored by the Burroughs Wellcome Fund and NCCAT, allows each school district or charter school to nominate one teacher. Finalists submit a portfolio and attend a week of professional development in March, including interviews with the NCCAT Selection Committee.

“I am incredibly proud that two UNCP School of Education graduates are finalists for this award,” said Tracy L. Mulvaney, EdD, dean of UNCP’s School of Education. “They reflect the excellence, dedication and commitment to students that define UNCP educators.”

The UNCP School of Education offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs designed to prepare educators at every stage of their careers. From teacher licensure and advanced classroom practice to leadership, counseling and educational support roles, UNCP programs emphasize hands-on experience, strong mentorship and real-world readiness — preparing graduates to serve students, schools and communities across North Carolina and beyond.

UNCP faculty support beginning teachers statewide. Dr. Carrie Brewington, from the School of Education, has judged the award for the past five years.