FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Felicia Cumings Smith Honored with 2025 Mary Ann Miller Thrive Award at KYSHAPE’s 5th Annual Move, Thrive Summer Conference
Lexington, KY – June 6, 2025 – The Kentucky Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (KYSHAPE) proudly announces Dr. Felicia Cumings Smith as the recipient of the 2025 Mary Ann Miller Thrive Award. This prestigious honor was presented during the 5th annual Move, Thrive Summer Conference, held June 25–27 in Lexington, Kentucky.
Named in memory of Mary Ann Miller, a trailblazer in health and physical education, the Thrive Award recognizes individuals who exemplify leadership, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to advancing health and wellness education across Kentucky.
Dr. Smith’s distinguished career in education spans classroom teaching, district leadership, and state-level policy development. She has been instrumental in shaping equitable learning opportunities and promoting holistic student development throughout the Commonwealth. Her advocacy for inclusive, student-centered learning environments has left an indelible mark on Kentucky’s educational landscape.
“Felicia Cumings Smith embodies the spirit of the Thrive Award,” said MeMe Ratliff, KYSHAPE President. “Her unwavering dedication to educational excellence and equity has inspired countless educators and positively impacted the lives of students across Kentucky.”
The Move, Thrive Summer Conference serves as KYSHAPE’s flagship professional development event, bringing together educators, administrators, and health professionals to share best practices and innovative strategies in health and physical education. This year’s conference featured dynamic workshops, keynote presentations, and networking opportunities, all aimed at fostering a culture of health and wellness in schools and communities.
For more information about KYSHAPE and the Move, Thrive Summer Conference, please visit kyshape.org.
Media Contact:
Jamie Sparks
KYSHAPE Executive Director
50 Kinder Drive
Morehead, KY 40351
Phone: (606) 315-3737
Email: kentuckyshape@gmail.com
Here is a list of the Mary Ann Miller Thrive Award recipients from 2021 through 2025, as recognized by the KYSHAPE:
🏆 Mary Ann Miller Thrive Award Recipients
- 2021 (Inaugural Year):
- Governor Andy Beshear
- Allison Slone (First Teacher Representative to the Kentucky Board of Education)
- Solyana Mesfin (First Student Representative to the Kentucky Board of Education)
- Recognized for their leadership in elevating teacher and student voices in state education policy during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- 2022:
- Thompson Scholars Program
- Honored for fostering resilience, self-worth, and educational attainment among Appalachian youth through mentorship and equity-focused programming.
- 2023:
- Dr. Jason E. Glass
- Recognized for advancing student wellness and whole-child education during his tenure as Kentucky Commissioner of Education.
-
Dr. Connie White
-
Honored for her leadership as Deputy Commissioner of Public Health, promoting coordinated school health initiatives and public health strategies that support student well-being.
- 2024:
- Brigitte Blom
- Celebrated for her leadership as President & CEO of the Prichard Committee, championing education policy and systems where all students can thrive.
- 2025:
- Dr. Felicia Cumings Smith
- Honored for her instrumental role in promoting coordinated school health during her tenure as Associate Commissioner of Education and her ongoing advocacy as Chair of the Prichard Committee.
The Mary Ann Miller Thrive Award is presented annually at KYSHAPE’s Move, Thrive Summer Conference to individuals or organizations demonstrating exceptional commitment to advancing student wellness and whole-child-focused policies in Kentucky.
