South Alabama Alumna Named Alabama Teacher of the Year
Posted on June 1, 2026 by Kerry Cohen
Elizabeth Von Hofe, a graduate of the University of South Alabama College of Education and Professional Studies, has been named Alabama’s 2026-2027 Teacher of the Year.
Von Hofe earned a Master of Education in Collaborative Special Education, K-6, through South’s alternative certification pathway in December 2022. She was also recognized as the College of Education and Professional Studies’ Outstanding Graduate Student in Special Education in 2023.
She is also an Individualized Education Program chair, teacher mentor and Project Outreach chapter sponsor. As Alabama Teacher of the Year, she will serve as the state’s ambassador for public education and represent Alabama in the National Teacher of the Year program.
Before entering education, Von Hofe spent 13 years in health care management, working in pediatric to geriatric rehabilitation, long-term care and hospice administration. At age 42, she returned to school through South Alabama’s alternative certification pathway, earning her master’s degree while working in the classroom.
“I would not be a teacher without the University of South Alabama and the alternate certification program,” Von Hofe said. “South gave me the opportunity to pursue a new path and do work that I truly love. As a special education teacher, I want my students to be seen as whole people, not by their labels, and to have authentic opportunities to learn, belong and be part of their school and community.”
Von Hofe, a National Board Certified Teacher,is known for her commitment to supporting students with disabilities and creating meaningful opportunities for them inside and outside the classroom.
“Elizabeth’s journey reflects the dedication, compassion and commitment to service that define our graduates,” said Dr. Angela T. Barlow, dean of the College of Education and Professional Studies. “We are proud to celebrate this well-deserved recognition and the difference she is making in the lives of students, families and schools across Alabama.”