Hendersonville – “Education is not just about teaching; it’s about inspiring,” reflects Peggy Marshall, the Executive Director of the Henderson County Education Foundation. As the annual Education Celebration approaches, the spotlight shines on two remarkable women whose legacies continue to inspire generations of students and educators alike. Lou Ann Long Morgan and Susan Eckstine Riddle, both inducted into the 2025 Hall of Fame, exemplify the transformative power of education in Henderson County.
From Classroom to Hall of Fame
The journey of Lou Ann Long Morgan began in the small town of Andrews, North Carolina, where she was born in April 1949. After graduating from Andrews High School in 1967, she pursued her passion for education at Mars Hill College, earning triple degrees in Science, Physical Education, and Health Education. Morgan’s career took flight at Farmer Elementary before she made her mark teaching Science and Math at Flat Rock Junior High School in 1974. However, it was her role as a beloved PE teacher at Dana Elementary that solidified her legacy.
“Every child deserves the chance to experience the great outdoors,” Morgan once said, a sentiment that fueled her advocacy for Outdoor Education. She expanded programs to ensure that every fifth grader in Henderson County could engage with nature, ultimately earning recognition as a state Demonstration Site. Her commitment to physical education and student success remains a cornerstone of her legacy, honored posthumously by the Kiwanis Club of Hendersonville through the Lou Ann Morgan Leadership Award.
Susan Eckstine Riddle’s story is equally compelling. With over two decades in education, her impact resonates throughout the community. A graduate of Mars Hill College, Riddle began her career as a preschool teacher while raising four children. Her journey led her to Mills River and Glenn Marlow Elementary, where her dedication to mathematics earned her accolades such as HCPS Outstanding K-5 Math Teacher and District Elementary Math Teacher of the Year.
“I believe in the power of kindness and leadership,” Riddle shared during her tenure as Lead Teacher at Dana Elementary. Her influence extended beyond the classroom as she organized professional development workshops and contributed to curriculum development through innovative math modules. Riddle’s legacy is one of positivity, humor, and an unwavering commitment to student growth.
A Celebration of Excellence
The 2025 Education Celebration promises to be a night to remember, honoring not only Morgan and Riddle but also current Teachers of the Year and Principals of the Year. “This event has evolved into a vibrant celebration that bridges generations,” Marshall explains. “It highlights the past, celebrates the present, and invests in the future of education in Henderson County.”
Attendees can expect an evening filled with heartfelt tributes, including tribute videos honoring the Hall of Fame inductees and recognition of outstanding educators currently serving in local schools. A special performance by West Henderson High School orchestra students will showcase the incredible talent nurtured within the community.
“The celebration is a powerful reminder of the value of public education,” Marshall emphasizes. “For future teachers, it provides inspiration and mentorship, reinforcing their chosen path and the opportunities they have to make a difference.”
The event also serves as a call to action for community members to engage more deeply in supporting education. It fosters unity and pride in the work being done in Henderson County schools while offering a space for connection among alumni, educators, students, and local businesses.
Looking Ahead: Inspiring Future Generations
As the Education Celebration approaches on April 29, 2025, at Point Lookout Vineyards, Marshall emphasizes its significance: “This is not just about honoring past educators; it’s about inspiring future ones.” The event reflects HCEF’s mission to support the whole child and school, fostering a thriving educational community.
In a challenging educational landscape, the legacies of Lou Ann Long Morgan and Susan Eckstine Riddle illustrate the profound impact dedicated educators have on their communities. Their stories inspire future generations to embrace their roles as educators with passion.
Join HCEF in celebrating these remarkable women and all who contribute to Henderson County’s educational landscape. Tickets for the 2025 Education Celebration are available by calling 828.697.5551 or visiting [HCEF’s event page](https://hcefnc.org/events/education-celebration/).