Tennessee Tech University alumna Diana Wood, Ed.D., has been named the 2025–2026 Supervisor of the Year by the Tennessee Department of Education, an honor recognizing outstanding leadership and impact in public education across the state.

Wood, a two-time graduate of Tech’s College of Education & Human Sciences, serves as PreK–4 instructional supervisor for the Putnam County School System. She earned her bachelor’s degree in elementary education with a dual certification in early childhood education from Tech in 1993 and later completed a master’s degree in instructional leadership at Tech in 2010.

The statewide award honors supervisors who demonstrate excellence in instructional leadership, collaboration and support for student success. Wood was selected from nine finalists representing districts across Tennessee.

“First of all, I was completely honored just to be there,” Wood said. “There were nine finalists across the state, and I felt humbled just to be in the midst of them. As they announced the winner, they started reading some comments from colleagues that began to sound familiar, but truly, I was overwhelmed and felt humbled to be included, much less the winner.”

Wood has worked in education for more than three decades and has been with Putnam County Schools since 2007. Before moving into district leadership, she served as a classroom teacher, assistant principal and principal. She has been in her current role since 2021.

In her position, Wood works closely with principals at the county’s 11 elementary schools, oversees prekindergarten programs, supports instructional coaches and helps guide curriculum decisions. She also provides professional development for teachers and serves as a key liaison between the district, the state and higher education partners.

“One of my favorite things is when I go into classrooms and I get to see that the work I’m doing does impact students,” Wood said. “I can see that they’re getting high-quality experiences in the classroom. I also get a lot of pleasure from seeing the capacity that’s been built in our school leaders and knowing how equipped they are to support teachers and students. Knowing I had a small hand in that is quite rewarding.”

Wood’s professional journey is closely tied to Tech and the Upper Cumberland region. Originally from McMinnville, she was introduced to Cookeville as a Tech student. After graduating, she taught in Memphis and Nashville before returning to the area.

“My experience at Tech and in local schools as a practicum student is really what brought us back to Cookeville,” Wood said. “I loved the community and the foundation Tech gave me as an educator.”

Today, Wood maintains strong ties to her alma mater. Faculty members in Tech’s College of Education & Human Sciences are currently working with her on a grant project focused on literacy, and she regularly partners with Tech to support teacher preparation. Through this collaboration, Tech literacy practicum students gain hands-on experience in Putnam County classrooms under the guidance of trained mentors.

“What’s exciting is knowing these future teachers are getting high-quality, meaningful experiences,” Wood said. “They’re practicing, receiving feedback and growing, which better prepares them for their first year in the classroom.”

Jeremy Wendt, chair of Tech’s Department of Curriculum & Instruction, said Wood’s influence extends well beyond her district role.

“Besides being a celebrated alum, Dr. Wood has been a supportive partner for our residency students and innovative projects in the Putnam County school district for many years,” Wendt said. “Her professionalism and positive attitude inspire our teacher candidates and contribute to the high level of success of our graduates.”

Lisa Zagumny, dean of Tech’s College of Education & Human Sciences, said the recognition reflects Wood’s lasting impact on students, families and educators.

“Dr. Wood’s recognition as Tennessee Supervisor of the Year is a tremendous honor for Putnam County and a testament to her unwavering commitment to students and families,” Zagumny said. “Her leadership has strengthened instructional practices and inspired collaboration. We are proud to celebrate this milestone and the positive impact she continues to make in our community.”

For aspiring educators and current Tech students, Wood offered simple advice.

“The role of a teacher has ripple effects that you may never see in your lifetime,” she said. “It’s not easy, but it brings more joy than I can think of. If this is where your heart’s leading you, then that’s the right job for you. You go in every day, you do your very best for kids, and that’s all you need to do.”

Learn more about Tech’s College of Education & Human Sciences at www.tntech.edu/education.