Lincoln Memorial University (LMU) announced the newest members of the Educators’ Hall of Fame and Professional Hall of Fame, honored during a special induction ceremony at Tex Turner Arena as part of the Homecoming 2024 festivities. The distinguished inductees represent a diverse range of fields, including education, business, public service, and health care, each exemplifying LMU’s mission of leadership and service.
The Educators' Hall of Fame recognizes alumni who have made significant contributions to the field of education, while the Professional Hall of Fame honors those who have demonstrated excellence and leadership in their respective professions. This year’s inductees are:
Educators' Hall of Fame Inductees
Cynthia “Cindy” Sword Peters, Class of 1972, Kingsport, TN
BS, Elementary Education
Cynthia Sword Peters devoted over 42 years to shaping the lives of young students, leaving an enduring legacy in education. Beginning her career at East End Elementary in Middlesboro, KY, Peters later became a passionate advocate for gifted education at multiple schools across Claiborne County. She also contributed to her community as a cheerleading sponsor and dance team founder. Her influence on gifted students and commitment to academic excellence makes her a deserving inductee into LMU's Educators' Hall of Fame.
Larry K. Smith, Class of 1961, Ewing, VA
BS, Physical Education
Larry K. Smith has had an outstanding career as an educator and coach, known for his dedication to students both in the classroom and on the athletic field. His 40-year career included teaching at Flatwoods Combined School and Elydale Elementary School in Lee County, VA, where he left a lasting impact on students' love for reading and athletics. Smith’s contributions to education and his community leadership make him a standout addition to LMU’s Educators' Hall of Fame.
Professional Hall of Fame Inductees
Patricia “Patti” P. Curry, Class of 1975, Myrtle Beach, SC
BS, Physical Education
Patti Curry’s career in human resources and facilities management has been marked by exceptional leadership. Her work at Muzak, LLC and Day & Zimmermann, Inc. demonstrates her ability to lead large-scale operations while improving workplace safety and efficiency. Curry’s professional achievements and lifelong commitment to helping others make her a deserving inductee into LMU’s Professional Hall of Fame.
Frances Eden Cutshaw, Class of 1977, Bristol, FL
BA, Dramatic Arts
Frances Cutshaw’s career has spanned education, broadcasting, and public service. From her early work as a TV weather forecaster to her time as a teacher and mayor of Bristol, FL, Cutshaw has continuously demonstrated leadership and dedication to community service. Her legacy of service makes her a worthy recipient of this year’s Professional Hall of Fame honor.
Charles “Mike” Dean, Class of 1978, Pineville, KY
BA, Business Administration
Mike Dean, an entrepreneur and community leader, has built a successful career in the natural resources industry. As CEO of Pioneer Coal & Timber, Dean’s business acumen and commitment to sustainable practices have been critical to the economic development of southeastern Kentucky. His philanthropic work and ongoing support for LMU make him a standout inductee into the Professional Hall of Fame.
Scott A. Napier, Class of 1980, Pennington Gap, VA
BS, Business Administration
Scott Napier, known for his visionary leadership in affordable housing, has transformed the lives of families in southwest Virginia through his role as Executive Director of the Lee County Redevelopment and Housing Authority. His dedication to improving housing access and his strong ties to LMU have earned him this well-deserved induction into the Professional Hall of Fame.
Mitchell “Mitch” Turner, Class of 2006, Knoxville, TN
BBA, General Business
Mitch Turner, an exemplary servant leader, has left a profound impact through his coaching career and leadership at Technology for Energy Corporation (TEC). His unique approach to mentorship, both in athletics and business, has shaped the lives of countless individuals. Turner’s dedication to his community and faith makes him a deserving inductee into LMU’s Professional Hall of Fame.
Dr. J. Michael Wieting, Tazewell, TN
Senior Associate Dean, Founding Professor, LMU-DCOM
A pioneer in osteopathic medical education, Dr. J. Michael Wieting’s contributions to LMU’s DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine and the broader medical community are unparalleled. His leadership, mentorship, and clinical expertise have earned him numerous accolades and a lasting legacy at LMU. Dr. Wieting’s induction into the Professional Hall of Fame is a testament to his lifelong commitment to excellence in medicine and education.
Lincoln Memorial University is a values-based learning community dedicated to providing educational experiences in liberal arts and professional studies. The main campus is in Harrogate, Tennessee. For more information about the undergraduate and graduate programs available at LMU, contact the Office of Admissions at 423-869-6280 or email at admissions@LMUnet.edu.
