MURFREESBORO, TN (WGNS NEWS) - The City Schools Foundation has announced that Rev. Martha Touchton will be honored with the 2026 Excellence in Education Award, a recognition reserved for individuals whose service has shaped the lives of Murfreesboro’s children and strengthened the community’s commitment to public education. The celebration, now in its 19th year, is set for Friday, March 20, at the beautifully restored Macca Villa at Riverside, a fitting backdrop for the Foundation’s largest and most anticipated fundraising event.

Rev. Touchton, who serves as the Minister of Adult Discipleship and Mission at St. Mark’s United Methodist Church, is no stranger to Murfreesboro City Schools. For more than a decade, she has been a driving force behind St. Mark’s partnership with Reeves‑Rogers Elementary, helping coordinate volunteers, support teachers, and champion school‑wide initiatives. Most recently, she helped lead a community effort that brought new energy and resources to the school’s improvement projects.

Her path to this honor stretches back more than 25 years. Ordained in 1999, Rev. Touchton has devoted her ministry to Christian education, service, and outreach across Middle Tennessee. Her leadership extends well beyond the church walls, touching numerous local organizations and earning her the 2022 Rutherford ATHENA Award for her advocacy and impact.

Chairman Eric Newell praised her selection, noting that Rev. Touchton “exemplifies what it means to serve with purpose, compassion, and unwavering commitment.” He emphasized that her influence has reached students, families, and educators throughout Murfreesboro, leaving a legacy of encouragement and opportunity.

The Excellence in Education Award carries a rich history, with past honorees including respected community figures such as Dr. Andy Brown, Andy and Cherry Womack, Charlie Patel, Doug Young, Collier Smith, Drs. Max and Mary Moss, John Floyd, Ed and Andrea Loughry, Tommy and Jeannie Bragg, Dr. Sidney and Elizabeth McPhee, Dr. Susan Andrews, John Hood, Rhea Seddon and “Hoot” Gibson, Gloria and Ted LaRoche, Joyce Taylor, and Bart Gordon.

This year’s event is co‑chaired by Foundation Board Members Emily Flood and Kim Young, who invite the community to join in celebrating Rev. Touchton’s extraordinary dedication to Murfreesboro’s children and families.

For ticket information, contact Lisa Trail or any member of The City Schools Foundation Board. Phone (615) 893-2313 or email Lisa.Trail@cityschools.net