Trixie Smith, Professor in the Department of Writing, Rhetoric, and Cultures at Michigan State University, received the 2025-2026 Charles Carpenter Fries Award presented by the Michigan Council of Teachers of English (MCTE). This statewide award honors educators whose distinguished career reflects a lifelong commitment to the teaching of English, to literacy, and to the professional development of teachers.

Named after University of Michigan Professor and former MCTE President Charles C. Fries, the award, which is MCTE’s longest-standing recognition, celebrates individuals who have made enduring contributions to English education in Michigan and beyond. Dr. Smith exemplifies the spirit of this award through her decades-long commitment to teaching, mentorship, literacy, and teacher education.

“I would like to thank my recommenders for this nomination and the judges for the award,” Smith said. “I am deeply honored to receive the Charles Carpenter Fries Award through MCTE and thank all involved for this recognition of my commitment to teachers, teaching, mentorship, literacy, professional development, and inclusion.”