JOSTENS RENAISSANCE EDUCATOR OF THE YEAR

2025 RECIPIENTS

Bentli Lewis

Bentli Lewis is the Principal of Oakbrook Middle School in Ladson, South Carolina. Bentli holds degrees from the College of Charleston and Charleston Southern University and has been in education for 13 years. Marlin Ketter, Director of Bands at Oakbrook Middle School wrote in his nomination letter:

Beyond the classroom, Mrs. Lewis exemplifies servant leadership by fostering a culture of appreciation and motivation among staff. Whether through surprise snack carts, handwritten notes of gratitude, or simple yet meaningful interactions in the hallways, she consistently reinforces a climate of positivity and belonging. Her dedication to staff morale and student success makes Oakbrook Middle School a model of the Renaissance mission—creating an environment where everyone feels valued and empowered.

Bentli’s favorite movie is The Holiday and she enjoys playing golf, reading, queso and cheering for her favorite teams, the Clemson Tigers and the Braves.

DeWayne Patterson

DeWayne Patterson is the Activities Director of Bixby High School in Bixby, Oklahoma. DeWayne holds degrees from the Oklahoma State University and Northeastern State University, and has been in education for 31 years. Kyle Smith, Principal of Bixby High School, wrote in his nomination letter:

DeWayne’s leadership at Bixby High School has been truly transformative. Under his guidance,
the school has seen remarkable growth in its extracurricular activities and overall student
engagement. His focus on creating an inclusive environment where all students feel valued and
supported has been a cornerstone of his success. DeWayne has worked tirelessly to ensure
that every student-regardless of background or interest-has the opportunity to participate in
activities that encourage growth, leadership, and personal development.

DeWayne loves pizza, traveling during school breaks (his favorite place is Madrid and formerly lived in China), and his favorite book is “The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse” by Charlie Mackesy.

Mark Brown

Mark Brown is the Assistant Principal of Newberg High School in Newberg, Oregon. Mark holds degrees from the Oklahoma Christian University, Concordia University and the University of the Cumberlands, and has been in education for 14 years. Rhett Ladner, Superintendent of Hancock School District, wrote in his nomination letter:

Mark is a beacon in the Renaissance community, and he lives by one powerful mantra: he is a “Hope Dealer.” And the beauty of Mark is this—he doesn’t just say it, he does it. Every day, in every interaction, through every message, Mark offers real, meaningful hope to educators, students, and school communities across the country. Through his leadership, he has organized and hosted powerful Renaissance conferences that equip and inspire schools to strengthen their culture and reimagine what’s possible. He speaks to audiences across the nation, not to perform, but to transform—to light a fire in others and remind them why they do what they do. Mark is a culture-shifter who brings energy, joy, and clarity wherever he goes.

Mark enjoys being with his family, reading his favorite book “Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl” and his favorite sweet treat is the DQ Salted Caramel Truffle Blizzard.

Stephanie Mercer Jess

Stephanie Mercer Jess is at Brazoswood High School in Clute, Texas. Stephanie holds degrees from University of Houston – Clear Lake and has been an educator for 27 years. Rita Pintavalle, former Principal of Brazoswood High School, wrote in her nomination letter:

Stephanie’s commitment to building a supportive and inclusive school environment is evident through her innovative initiatives and programs. She has spearheaded numerous activities that promote student engagement, respect, and collaboration. Her efforts have not only enhanced the overall atmosphere of the school but have also positively impacted student morale and academic performance. Brazoswood High School has increased attendance at school events, overall attendance has increased by almost 3% since she began short-term attendance rewards, and participation in gaining letter jackets for academics and other programs has grown because she initiates the addition of more school pride.

Stephanie loves tending to her rose garden, attending concerts with her daughter, and riding her husband’s motorcycle.

Previous Educators of the Year