Local Educator Alex Beene Receives Prestigious Presidential Volunteer Lifetime Achievement Award

Alex Beene, a Tennessee-based academic tutor and ACT test preparation instructor, has received the President’s Volunteer Service Lifetime Achievement Award. This award, given on February 20, honors those who have dedicated over 4,000 hours to public service. Beene has worked in education for 14 years, 11 of which were at the University of Tennessee at Martin (UTM). He expressed his appreciation for the award, stating it has brought attention to his programs.

Beene works mainly through the UTM Office of University Outreach and also teaches general studies at some of UTM’s regional centers. His role includes teaching ACT preparation, assisting with college preparation, and guiding students in higher education and career planning. He has collaborated with various schools, nonprofits, and other organizations in West Tennessee.

Beene has been a general studies and test preparation instructor at UT Martin since January 2013. He has also been the assistant administrator for the State of Tennessee Adult Education program. He holds a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in journalism and mass communications from the University of Mississippi, and a certification in teaching English as a second or foreign language from UCLA. Beene, originally from West Tennessee, graduated from Chester County High School.

Beene has helped over 7,500 students throughout his career, earning him the 2023 Outstanding Teacher of the Year award from the Coalition On Adult Basic Education. His work has taken him to various locations, including schools, churches, jails, rehabilitation centers, and mental health facilities. He has assisted individuals in earning their high school equivalency or GED test, and provided career and college readiness training.

Beene's dedication to education was inspired by his mother, Deidra Beene, the former director of the UTM McNairy County Center-Selmer. Beene credits his mother's commitment to student success as a major influence on his career. He also mentioned that the Office of University Outreach has helped secure over $500,000 in scholarships for students.

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