Dr. Jerry Stout inducted into National Rural Education Association Hall of Fame

September 24, 2026

DURANT, Okla. – Southeastern Oklahoma State University Associate Professor of Education and Educational Leadership Program Coordinator Dr. Jerry Stout has been inducted into the National Rural Education Association (NREA) Hall of Fame for 2026, recognizing more than five decades of leadership in rural education.

Stout has dedicated his career to preparing and supporting educators and school leaders in rural communities. At Southeastern, he leads the Educational Leadership program, mentoring future principals, superintendents and other educational leaders who serve schools throughout Oklahoma and Texas.

“I have had the opportunity to work with several individuals who were previously inducted into the NREA Hall of Fame, and I am honored and humbled to now be included among such esteemed educators,” said Stout.

His career includes service as a teacher, principal, superintendent, professor, researcher and mentor, along with leadership roles in several Texas school districts. Stout has been a member of both the Texas Rural Education Association and Organization of Rural Oklahoma Schools, both state affiliates of NREA. He has also contributed nationally through NREA committees, research, conference presentations and nearly a decade as a peer reviewer for The Rural Educator.

“Dr. Stout, as a PK-12 principal and superintendent, as well as a professor at Southeastern, has made many significant contributions to rural education,” stated Dr. Stewart Mayers, chair of the Department of Educational Instruction and Leadership. “Small schools and the practitioners who staff them will be indebted to Dr. Stout for his unwavering efforts to improve rural education.”

The NREA Hall of Fame honors individuals who have demonstrated a sustained commitment to rural education, advocacy and the empowerment of rural school communities.

About NREA
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.

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