05/15/2026
Our Miss Blackburn is so deserving of this award!
CCCF AWARDS ELIZABETH A. BILLMAN
EXCELLENCE IN TEACHING AWARD
TO CARLEE BLACKBURN
The Cass County Community Foundation today announced Carlee Blackburn as the 2026 recipient of the “Elizabeth A. Billman Excellence in Teaching Award” during a program at Columbia Elementary School.
Deanna Crispen, CCCF President & CEO made the announcement and commended Blackburn for her dedication to her students and their families, ability to create an equitable learning environment, passion for teaching and community. Crispen said, “Elizabeth Billman was an educator, administrator, mentor and role model for young women and teachers. When we thought about ways to honor her legacy, this award, to encourage teachers early in their careers, was the result and we know Liz would be proud we are continuing her legacy through the award.
Blackburn, who teaches second grade at Columbia was nominated by her Principal, Kellie Pearson who said of her, “Carlee’s greatest strength is her ability to build meaningful, transformative connections. She excels at forming genuine connections with her students, taking the time to understand their backgrounds, their families, and what inspires them to learn. She creates a warm and welcoming classroom environment where all students feel valued and supported. Her thoughtful approach to bilingual education fosters fluency, confidence, and pride in her students' bilingual abilities, helping them thrive academically and personally. Her ability to nurture a love for reading and writing in both languages is nothing short of remarkable.”
Carlee has just completed her third year as an educator at Columbia. She is highly respected by her colleagues, parents, and students for excellence in the classroom and servant’s heart. Her colleagues note she consistently goes above and beyond to support both students and fellow educators.
The Excellence in Teaching Award was established in 2021to honor the long legacy of Billman. Elizabeth had served faithfully on the Board of Directors of the Cass County Community Foundation for a period of 16 years, serving two terms as Chairman of the Board of Directors and was on the Board of Directors at the time of her passing.
Mrs. Billman retired as principal at Thompson Elementary School, now known as Lewis Cass Elementary. She also taught in the Southeastern School Corporation, beginning her teaching career at Washington Township School. She was a member of the Lewis Cass Alumni Association where she received the Distinguished Service Award. Liz served in the Southeastern School Corporation for 38 years.
Blackburn was selected for the award from a pool of nominees submitted by elementary building principals of grades K-6 from all county schools, who most exemplify Elizabeth’s commitment to the students under her care, as well as embodies her thirst for knowledge, learning, and commitment to community service. She is the fifth recipient of the annual award.
The award consists of a $500 stipend for the teacher for their classroom and a commemorative plaque. A permanent plaque is on display at the CCCF Office to honor each year’s recipient.
