FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
TUCSON, AZ – The National Rural Education Association (NREA) is proud to announce the induction of two distinguished leaders into the NREA Hall of Fame for 2026: Dr. Allen Pratt and Dr. Jerry Stout. Both individuals have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to rural education, advocacy, and the empowerment of rural school communities across the nation.
Dr. Allen Pratt
Dr. Allen Pratt is a nationally recognized leader and advocate for rural education whose career has been defined by service, collaboration, and a deep commitment to strengthening rural schools and communities. As Executive Director of the National Rural Education Association, Dr. Pratt significantly expanded the organization’s reach and influence, growing its state affiliate network from 32 to 45 affiliates and increasing membership by 40 percent. Under his leadership, NREA strengthened partnerships among universities, policymakers, researchers, and rural communities while expanding its emphasis on research, advocacy, and initiatives such as The Rural Educator and the biennial Why Rural Matters report. Beyond his organizational accomplishments, Dr. Pratt has distinguished himself as a mentor and servant leader who invests deeply in educators and emerging leaders. Known for his humility, integrity, encouragement, and commitment to helping others succeed, he has strengthened both the national voice of rural education and the community of professionals dedicated to serving rural students and schools.
Dr. Jerry C. Stout
Dr. Jerry C. Stout has devoted more than five decades to public education and rural school leadership, serving as a teacher, principal, superintendent, professor, researcher, mentor, and advocate for rural schools. His career includes leadership roles in Beckville, Cooper, Roxton, and Tom Bean ISDs, as well as extensive service to the Texas Rural Education Association, where he has served as president, secretary, board member, committee leader, and member of the Texas Rural Education Foundation Board. Nationally, Dr. Stout has contributed to the National Rural Education Association through committee service, advocacy, conference presentations, research, and nearly a decade of peer review for The Rural Educator. He currently serves as Associate Professor of Education and Educational Leadership Program Coordinator at Southeastern Oklahoma State University, where he prepares and mentors future principals, superintendents, and educational leaders serving rural communities across Texas and Oklahoma. Throughout his career, Dr. Stout has distinguished himself through servant leadership, scholarship, advocacy, and an enduring commitment to strengthening rural schools and the people who lead them.
“We are honored to recognize Dr. Pratt and Dr. Stout for their lifelong dedication to our mission,” said Dr. Melissa Sadorf, NREA Executive Director. “Their impact on the landscape of rural education is immeasurable, and their legacy of service will inspire rural leaders for generations to come.”
The formal recognition of the 2026 Hall of Fame inductees will take place during the National Forum to Advance Rural Education (NFARE). NREA invites folks to join them in celebrating these two outstanding rural advocates.
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The National Rural Education Association (NREA) was originally founded as the Department of Rural Education in 1907. It is the oldest established national organization in the United States. As the trusted voice for rural education, the NREA advocates for every rural learner, educator, and community. The NREA envisions strong rural schools and communities where education is the catalyst for resilience, opportunity and success.
