News Summary
Dr. Aaron Thompson, president of the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education, has been awarded the prestigious James Bryant Conant Award for his leadership in the state’s higher education sector. The award was presented at the National Forum on Education Policy, recognizing his over 40-year career dedicated to enhancing educational access for students in Kentucky. His initiatives, such as the Kentucky Student Success Collaborative, have significantly improved educational outcomes and opportunities for underrepresented students in the state.
FRANKFORT, KY
Dr. Aaron Thompson, the president of the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education (CPE), has been awarded the James Bryant Conant Award by the Education Commission of the States (ECS) for his exceptional leadership in Kentucky’s higher education system. The award was presented at the 2025 National Forum on Education Policy held on Thursday.
The James Bryant Conant Award is one of three prestigious honors given annually by ECS to individuals who demonstrate outstanding commitment to public education. Dr. Thompson, recognized for his over 40-year career dedicated to enhancing educational access and success throughout Kentucky, has been pivotal in shaping the future of higher education in the state.
ECS highlighted Thompson’s leadership and vision, which have significantly improved educational and economic opportunities for students in Kentucky. His contributions have elevated the state’s profile in broader educational discussions and policies.
Educational Background and Career Progression
Dr. Thompson earned his bachelor’s degree in sociology and political science from Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) before pursuing advanced degrees in sociology at the University of Kentucky. His journey in academia began at EKU, where he served as a sociology professor and later advanced to the position of associate vice president for academic affairs.
In 2009, Thompson joined the CPE as the senior vice president for academic affairs and subsequently became the executive vice president. After a brief tenure as interim president of Kentucky State University, he made history by becoming the first Kentucky native and the first African American to hold the President position at CPE in 2018.
Acknowledgments and Additional Honors
A nominator remarked on Thompson’s impressive contributions to American education, his visionary leadership, and his unwavering commitment to student success. In addition to the James Bryant Conant Award, he recently received the 2024 Exceptional Leader Award from the State Higher Education Executive Officers Association (SHEEO) and was inducted into the Kentucky Civil Rights Hall of Fame in 2019.
Leadership at CPE
During his presidency at CPE, Dr. Thompson has implemented various initiatives aimed at improving educational outcomes. His leadership was significant in creating a performance-based funding formula that targets low-income and underrepresented students, ensuring that equitable access to education is a priority.
Thompson also established the Kentucky Student Success Collaborative, an initiative designed to support and promote student achievement across the state. His tenure has witnessed considerable increases in funding for public higher education, reflecting the effectiveness of his advocacy efforts.
Moreover, Dr. Thompson has consistently pushed for the integration of essential employability skills into undergraduate programs, preparing students for the workforce and addressing the needs of the job market.
Community Impact and Influence
Madison Silvert, the CPE Board Chair, recognized Dr. Thompson’s effective leadership and his ability to build strong relationships with legislators, significantly increasing the council’s influence within the General Assembly. His advocacy for education reform, especially focusing on underrepresented students, underlines his commitment to expanding postsecondary access and success in Kentucky.
Dr. Thompson’s honor at the National Forum on Education Policy reinforces his standing as a leader in the higher education sector, showcasing his dedication to fostering educational equity and serving the best interests of students across Kentucky.
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Additional Resources
- NKY Tribune: CPE Head Aaron Thompson Receives ECS James Bryant Conant Award
- Wikipedia: Postsecondary Education
- NKY Tribune: CPE President Aaron Thompson Recognized with 2024 Exceptional Leader Award
- Google Search: Aaron Thompson Kentucky education
- State Journal: CPE President Dr. Aaron Thompson Receives Honorary Doctorate from EKU
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Education
- NKY Tribune: Northern Kentucky University to Dissolve Office of Inclusive Excellence
- Google News: Aaron Thompson awards
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