Auburn College of Education doctoral student Kelia Browder named AEA Administrator Division Principal of the Year

Auburn University College of Education doctoral student Kelia Browder was recently honored as the Principal of the Year by the Alabama Education Association (AEA) Administrator Division, an award that reflects her deep commitment to students, educators and rural communities across Alabama.

“Receiving this recognition is truly humbling,” said Browder, a Monroeville, Alabama, native. “It represents the collective work of the teachers, staff, students and families I have the privilege of serving each day. I see it as a reminder that when we stay focused on doing what is best for children, meaningful impact follows.”

Browder has built her career on service, purpose and a belief in the transformative power of education. She began her doctoral studies at Auburn’s College of Education in 2021 and is pursuing a Ph.D. in Elementary and Secondary Education, a program that she says has strengthened her leadership philosophy and expanded her vision for education.

“The Auburn University College of Education has helped prepare me by connecting leadership theory with real-world application,” she said. “The program encourages reflection, collaboration and problem-solving — skills that are essential for school leaders. It has strengthened my ability to think strategically, support teachers effectively, and make decisions that benefit students. The experiences and discussions within the program have also prepared me to think beyond my current role and consider how I can continue contributing to education on a broader level.”

Fostering strong relationships

Browder, who has been with her district for 11 years, works as a principal at Union Springs Elementary School in Union Springs, Alabama, where she provides both instructional and operational leadership for the kindergarten through fifth-grade campus.

“My work focuses on ensuring strong alignment between curriculum, instruction, assessment and intervention so that every student has the opportunity to succeed,” she said. “A large part of my role involves working closely with teachers to analyze data, strengthen instruction and implement targeted supports for students. I also focus heavily on building a positive school culture by fostering strong relationships with staff, students, families and the community.”

She said that in the past few years, her team has made meaningful progress in student achievement, including significant growth in reading proficiency and overall academic performance.

“For me, the most important part of the job is creating an environment where both students and educators feel supported, challenged and empowered to grow,” she said.

As to her own student experience, Browder describes Auburn’s College of Education as a place where she immediately felt supported and inspired.

“What I love most about Auburn’s College of Education is the strong sense of community and the commitment to developing impactful educational leaders,” she said. She added that the program’s blend of research and real-world leadership experiences has been instrumental in shaping her growth.

Along the way, she said, two professors have made a lasting impact.

“I have two professors who have had a meaningful impact on my experience in the Auburn University College of Education - Dr. Kensler and Dr. Serafini,” she said, crediting Kensler for encouraging creativity and practitioner-focused thinking and Serafini for modeling purpose-driven leadership that inspires her students. “I truly appreciate both of them and the ways they have helped shape my growth as an educator and leader.”

Leading with purpose

Looking ahead, Browder said she hopes to expand her influence.

“After graduation, I hope to serve as a superintendent and continue making a broader impact in rural education,” she said.

One of her long-term goals is to create a support program for rural principals that focuses on strengthening school culture and improving academic outcomes.

“Rural leaders often face unique challenges, and I want to help provide the tools, mentorship and support systems that will help them lead thriving schools that will include parent and community support.”

Browder encourages aspiring educators and leaders to consider Auburn’s College of Education as a place where they can grow personally and professionally.

“I would encourage them to take full advantage of the opportunities the Auburn University College of Education offers,” she said, noting how the program equips students with the skills and support needed to make a meaningful difference. “It is truly a place where future educators and leaders are developed and empowered.”