Dr. Tracy Champagne honored with Outstanding Educator Award
The ABAC Alumni Association has selected Dr. Tracy Champagne of Cairo, Georgia, as the recipient of the Outstanding Educator Award, recognizing her commitment to teaching, student development and agricultural education.
The award was presented on April 10 during the 2026 Alumni Association awards by Chad Hancock, a 1995 graduate and current president of the Alumni Association.
Champagne attended Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College from 1995 to 1997, earning two associate degrees in applied science: one in animal science and the other in livestock health. During her time as a student, she held leadership roles with the Interactivities Council and Phi Theta Kappa and helped establish the Collegiate 4-H program. She was also involved in campus organizations related to agriculture and earned multiple academic distinctions.
Following her time at ABAC, Champagne continued her education with a bachelor’s degree in agribusiness from Louisiana Tech University. She later completed a master’s degree in education, an education specialist degree and a doctorate in career and technical education from Auburn University.
Over a career spanning more than 20 years, Champagne has taught in both Georgia and Florida. Her work has included launching new academic offerings, strengthening existing programs and supporting the growth of FFA chapters that have received recognition at the state and national levels. She has also helped develop community gardens and other hands-on learning opportunities for students.
Her accomplishments have earned her multiple honors, including three Teacher of the Year awards, recognition as a STAR Teacher and several national nominations from the National Association of Agricultural Educators. In 2026, she received an Honorary American FFA Degree.
Champagne currently teaches agriculture at Bainbridge High School, where her courses include basic agriculture, plant science, nursery and landscape, wildlife and forestry. She also developed a floral design program that continues to grow.
In addition to classroom instruction, she serves as co-adviser for the school’s FFA chapter, helping guide students into leadership roles at the area and state levels. She oversees greenhouse operations and has built partnerships with industry professionals to enhance student learning.
Her approach to education emphasizes hands-on experiences that prepare students with practical skills while reinforcing key agricultural concepts. She has also received recognition at the local level, including multiple Grady County STAR Teacher honors, and has secured grant funding to support her programs.
Outside of school, Champagne is active in community initiatives, agricultural events and service organizations. She maintains membership in several professional associations related to agricultural and career and technical education.
Champagne remains closely connected to ABAC as a lifetime member of the Alumni Association and a current member of its board. She regularly encourages her students to pursue their education at the college and has supported campus initiatives, including participation in the School of Agriculture and Natural Resources Golf Classic. She has also established an estate gift to benefit the ABAC Foundation.
“Winning this award was a full-circle moment,” said Champagne. “Dr. Mary-Ellen Hicks, my most influential professor at ABAC, was present and seeing her helped remind me of the path I took to get to where I am today. ABAC was incredibly influential on my life, and I share that with my students every chance I get.”
The Outstanding Educator Award recognizes individuals who demonstrate excellence in teaching and make a lasting impact on students and their communities. Champagne’s career reflects a dedication to education and a passion for agriculture that continues to influence future generations.