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• Keith Hébert first AU professor to receive MLK Jr. Educator of the Year Award

Keith Hébert first AU professor to receive MLK Jr. Educator of the Year Award

Keith Hébert, Auburn University’s Draughon Professor of Southern History, has been named the 2025 Martin Luther King Jr. Educator of the Year. This honor was presented at the annual MLK Scholarship Breakfast and marks the first time an Auburn professor has received this award.

“I don't think I ever would've dreamt of being recognized on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, much less receiving an award that bears his name,” Hébert said.

The award is a collaboration between Auburn University's Office of Outreach and the National Forum of Black Public Administrators - East Central Alabama Chapter and recognizes educators who have profoundly impacted their communities.

The selection process, conducted by city and government officials in partnership with Auburn University Outreach, acknowledges individuals who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to education and community service. Hébert noted that this award is often given to K-12 educators who go above and beyond to support their students, making his recognition as a college professor particularly meaningful.

“Being a K-12 teacher is probably the hardest job in the world and the most important, and to be thought of in any kind of terms with them positively was a huge bonus for me,” Hébert said. “I think a lot of professors imagine that they can be impactful like that. I think we can be, but to be recognized is really a huge honor for me.”

Beyond his classroom impact, Hébert is known for his work in public history and community outreach. His involvement in projects and the preservation of historic sites demonstrates his dedication to ensuring that untold stories are recognized and remembered. One of his most impactful projects has been his partnership with Selma University, where he has helped secure grants to restore historic buildings on campus. His work highlights the importance of ensuring that historically significant sites remain a part of a community’s story.

“Selma University has played a vital role in Alabama’s history,” Hébert said. “Working with them to preserve that legacy has been incredibly meaningful because an award like this instills in me the responsibility to be part of that link in the chain moving forward, to continue thinking about these issues and bringing them to light.”

Hébert says the most rewarding aspect of his work at Auburn is the opportunity to represent the university in communities that may not have had much interaction with Auburn before.

“You get to be the change that you want to see and be the best version of Auburn that you believe to be,” Hébert said. “I'm really proud to work at Auburn University, to represent Auburn, and to be proud of Alabama. I know Alabama has its good and bad, but I also think there are a lot of amazing people that I meet in Alabama.”

Hébert's recognition emphasizes Auburn University's growing role in creating meaningful community engagement and reflects the increasing impact of educators who work to advance social justice and historical awareness. His dedication to both his students and the community exemplifies the spirit of the MLK Educator of the Year Award.

Learn more about the Department of History.

Tags: Faculty Community, Outreach and Engagement History