University of Phoenix Alumna Erica McCray Receives National Milken Educator Award

Riverwalk Academy principal honored for her leadership, community engagement, and commitment to student success

PHOENIX, March 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- University of Phoenix is proud to share that alumna Erica McCray, who earned a Master of Education from the University, has received a national Milken Educator Award and a $25,000 cash prize. In addition to the financial award, recipients join the national Milken Educator Network, a group of more than 3,000 professionals across diverse roles and disciplines who are contributing to the future of education.

Key facts

• Recipient: Erica McCray, University of Phoenix alumna with a Master of Education.
• Honor: National Milken Educator Award, including a $25,000 cash prize.
• Role: Principal of Riverwalk Academy in Rock Hill, South Carolina.
• Noted for: Instructional excellence, strong community engagement, potential for long-range leadership 
• Network: Award recipients join the national Milken Educator Network, which includes more than 3,000 education professionals.
• 2025–26 Awards tour: The Milken Educator Awards will honor 30 recipients nationwide this cycle.

"I have always believed real change begins with education," McCray said. "Being recognized for work I love is truly humbling because it is about showing up for students and helping them see what is possible. My time at University of Phoenix strengthened my commitment to lead with purpose and serve with heart. Wherever my journey takes me, that dedication to making a lasting impact will always guide me."

McCray serves as principal of Riverwalk Academy in Rock Hill, South Carolina, where she is known for building strong relationships with parents and community stakeholders. She hosts parent nights, communicates frequently with families and helps ensure Riverwalk's achievements are visible and celebrated in the community.

"Erica's dedication to her students and her school community is evident in the way she leads and inspires those around her," said Pamela Roggeman, EdD, dean of the College of Education at University of Phoenix. "We are proud to see her recognized with a Milken Educator Award, and we celebrate the commitment she brings to her work each day. Her achievement highlights the impact that caring, thoughtful educators can have on learners, families and their communities."

McCray's recognition is part of a nationwide Milken Educator Awards tour that will honor 30 recipients with the unrestricted $25,000 award. Recipients also join the national Milken Educator Network, where they connect with peers who are advancing leadership and innovation in education.

About the Milken Educator Awards

Created by Lowell Milken, the Milken Educator Awards represent one of the nation's most prominent educator recognition programs. Since the first award in 1987, the program has provided more than $76 million in individual cash prizes and contributed more than $146 million to the Milken Educator Award national network.

About University of Phoenix

University of Phoenix innovates to help working adults enhance their careers and develop skills in a rapidly changing world. Flexible schedules, relevant courses, interactive learning, skills-mapped curriculum for our bachelor's and master's degree programs and a Career Services for Life^® commitment help students more effectively pursue career and personal aspirations while balancing their busy lives. For more information, visit phoenix.edu/blog.html.

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SOURCE University of Phoenix