ALEXANDER CITY, Ala. – Central Alabama Community College chemistry instructor Dr. Jeremy M. Carr has been named a recipient of the 2026 Distinguished Alumni Award from Auburn University’s College of Education, one of the university’s highest honors recognizing graduates for leadership, service, and professional impact.
Dr. Carr, who has taught at Central Alabama Community College since 2014, said he was surprised by the recognition.
“I was completely surprised at the announcement,” Carr said. “I’ve spent the past decade trying to bring unique learning opportunities to CACC students and this award recognizes those efforts. I’m truly grateful for the honor.”
The Distinguished Alumni Award recognizes graduates who exemplify excellence and significant contributions to their profession. Dr. Carr earned a master’s degree in higher education administration from Auburn in 2013 and was selected for his work expanding transfer pathways, mentoring students, and developing research opportunities at the community college level.
Over the past decade, Carr has guided numerous students into medical, veterinary, and pharmacy programs, including several who enrolled at Auburn’s Harrison College of Pharmacy. His mentorship often focuses on first-generation college students and those from rural backgrounds, assisting with personal statements, applications, and interview preparation.
Dr. Carr also helped establish Alabama’s first 2+2 articulation agreement between a community college and Auburn University’s College of Agriculture, creating a streamlined pathway for rural students to transfer into agriculture majors. The model has since been replicated by community colleges across the state.
In 2025, Carr led CACC’s participation in Mission 20 of NASA’s Student Spaceflight Experiments Program, developing a course in scientific proposal writing and guiding student teams designing experiments for the International Space Station. The initiative earned him CACC’s Teaching Excellence Award for Innovative Teaching Practices and the Award for Contributions to Student Success and Engagement.
CACC President Jeff Lynn praised Dr. Carr’s impact, calling his work an example of expanding opportunity for community college students.
Auburn University’s College of Education presented the award during its annual Awards Celebration on Friday, April 10.
