SNU School of Education Announces 2025 Hall of Fame Inductees

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

[Bethany, Oklahoma] — Southern Nazarene University (SNU)’s School of Education is proud to announce the induction of three distinguished educators into its Education Hall of Fame. This year’s honorees—Dr. Kent Shellenberger, Mrs. Donna Kyzer Rice, and Mrs. Kathy Lunn—will be recognized for their lifelong commitment to excellence in education, leadership, and service at an induction ceremony on November 8, 2025, during the School of Education Alumni Breakfast. Attendees are invited to join the SNU Lab School Joy Walk, immediately following the breakfast.

Each of these educators has made a profound impact on students, schools, and communities, embodying SNU’s mission to Refine Character, Create Culture, and Serve Christ.

Dr. Kent Shellenberger, Ed.D., has served for 50 years in education as a teacher, coach, principal, superintendent, and university professor. Currently serving as Professor of Education at SNU, he previously led Bethany Public Schools as Superintendent for two decades, guiding the district through significant academic and facility growth. His leadership has been recognized statewide with honors including Oklahoma State Superintendent of the Year, the OASA Lifetime Achievement Award, and induction into the Oklahoma Educators Hall of Fame.

Mrs. Donna Kyzer Rice, M.Ed., has served the Atlanta Independent School District in Texas for more than 40 years, advancing from classroom teacher to Assistant Superintendent. Her leadership in grant writing has secured over $45 million in funding for educational innovation and staff development, while her mentorship of countless educators has shaped the next generation of leaders. A dynamic Christian speaker and author, Mrs. Rice’s ministry has reached thousands of women across the country, exemplifying a life of faith and purpose grounded in the values of her alma mater.

Mrs. Kathy Lunn, M.A., dedicated 37 years to the SNU Lab School, where she pioneered the Upper Primary Division (grades 3–6) and developed a nationally respected model for project-based, student-centered learning. Her classroom inspired creativity, curiosity, and joy, while her mentorship of teacher candidates helped shape hundreds of future educators. Mrs. Lunn’s work stands as a living expression of SNU’s vision of holistic Christian education.

“These honorees have dedicated their lives to developing both the hearts and minds of students,” said Dr. Ron Titus, Chair of the School of Education and Superintendent of the SNU Lab School. “Their impact extends far beyond the classroom. They represent what it truly means to educate with purpose, integrity, and faith.”

The SNU School of Education Hall of Fame Ceremony will be held on Saturday, November 8, 2025, on the Southern Nazarene University campus in Bethany, Oklahoma.

For more information, please contact the SNU School of Education at (405) 717-6267.

About Southern Nazarene University
Southern Nazarene University, located in Bethany, Oklahoma, is a private Christian institution committed to shaping servant leaders since 1899. With more than 50 undergraduate and graduate programs offered on campus and online, SNU emphasizes accessibility, purpose-driven education, and holistic student support.