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When Dr. Kathyrn Washington entered the Texas Council of Women School Executives (TCWSE) annual awards luncheon, she went in with few details about the agenda. As the LU educational leadership professor picked at her salad, presenters started describing the recipient of the Margaret Montgomery Leadership Award. As the list of accolades and accomplishments got longer, Washington started to recognize the resume. When she looked up from her plate, she realized all eyes in the room were on her – she was being honored for her leadership and dedication in education.  

“Receiving this award holds profound significance for me, as it is named in honor of the esteemed founder of our organization, Dr. Margret A. Montgomery-Sheffield. Dr. Montgomery-Sheffield stood out as an exceptional Texas educator, showcasing exemplary leadership and unwavering support for professionalism among women in education -- which is the core mission of TCWSE,” Washington said.  

As the past president, Washington sat on the board at the TCWSE annual conference. One of the group’s executive duties was to review the details of the luncheon the day before the event. Washington said she didn’t give it much thought when her fellow board members weren’t quick to volunteer the ins and outs of the program. Little did she know they were planning to surprise her with the esteemed award.  

“It was definitely a surprise,” Washington said.  

In her 28-year career, Washington has immersed herself in several organizations dedicated to enhancing education. Nationally, she is a member of the American Educational Research Association, and membership chair on the Research on Women and Education Special Interest Group Board. In Texas, she is a member of the Texas Elementary Principals and Supervisors Association (TEPSA), serving on the Region 6 committee as past president and reviewer for TEPSA Assistant Principal of the Year. She is also a member of the Texas Council of Women School Executives, where she holds the title of immediate past president, parliamentarian, chair of the review committee of past presidents, and conference proposal committee member.  

Additionally, Washington is affiliated with the Texas Council of Professors of Educational Administration, International Council of Professors of Educational Leadership, Texas Alliance of Black School Educators, and National Alliance of Black School Educators.  

On campus, Washington serves as a faculty senator, contributing to the Student Success Task Force, and she is also involved in the College of Education and Human Development Curriculum and Dissertation committees. As an advisor, she oversees the Collegiate 100 of ÃÛÌÒÊÓƵ University.   

“My ultimate goal in education is to serve as a positive influence, guiding my students toward success in their educational journeys, whether they choose paths as teachers or administrators,” Washington said. “By setting a strong example, I aim to inspire and empower them to achieve their goals. I firmly believe that their individual successes will create a positive ripple effect, fostering an environment of accomplishment and contributing to the overall success of the students they, in turn, will mentor and support.”