After over 20 years of dedicated service to the Lincoln Memorial University (LMU) Carter and Moyers School of Education, Dr. Teresa Bicknell has announced her plans to retire at the end of the Spring 2025 semester.
Bicknell has been a cornerstone of the Carter and Moyers School of Education throughout her career, serving in roles ranging from associate professor and program director to department chair and associate dean. For the past five years, she has led the school as dean, fostering a supportive environment for both students and faculty while upholding LMU’s mission of providing high-quality education to rural and underserved communities.
Reflecting on her time at LMU, Dr. Bicknell said, “I have enjoyed each role tremendously and will deeply miss my friends and colleagues. This university and its mission have been central to my life for more than two decades.”
Bicknell’s journey to LMU began after earning her undergraduate degree from the University of Tennessee and her graduate degrees from Tennessee Technological University and Tennessee State University. Before joining LMU, she spent 20 years in public education in Loudon County, Tennessee, where she worked as a teacher and administrator.
During her tenure at LMU, Bicknell achieved numerous milestones, including presenting at national conferences, consulting on accreditation processes, and serving on the Board of Directors for the Clinch Powell Educational Cooperative. She was also actively involved in professional organizations such as the American Association of Colleges of Teacher Education, the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development, and Phi Delta Kappa International.
Bicknell credits her success to her strong faith and the unwavering support of her family. She and her husband, Steve, have been married for 52 years and enjoy traveling the world together. Following her retirement, they plan to continue their adventures, which have included trips to Italy, Greece, and an upcoming journey to Egypt and the Greek Isles.
To ensure a smooth transition, Dr. Chessica Cave, associate professor of Education and director of Undergraduate Education, will assume the role of interim dean. Cave brings extensive experience and a deep understanding of the Carter and Moyers School of Education mission, making her well-suited to guide the school during this period of change.
“LMU extends its deepest gratitude to Dr. Bicknell for her years of exemplary service and her unwavering commitment to education,” said LMU President Jason McConnell, DBA. “The university wishes her the best in her retirement and looks forward to honoring her legacy in the years to come.”
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.
