Nov. 3, 2025 ̶ ̶ ̶ The Tennessee Art Education Association (TAEA) has announced Robin Webb from University Middle School as this year’s Middle School Level Art Educator of the Year. Webb has been teaching art for the entirety of her 21-year career in education and has spent the last five at University Middle, where she continues to inspire creativity and confidence in her students.
“Winning the award came as a total shock,” Webb said. “It’s mind-blowing that out of all the amazing middle school art teachers in the state, I was selected as the best. It is such an incredible honor.”
TAEA allows for all types of nominations for the annual award. In Webb’s case, she was nominated by her friend and fellow art teacher, Renee Embry, who teaches at Maxine Smith STEAM Academy. Throughout her two decades in the classroom, Webb says her favorite part of teaching art is watching students discover their own voices.
“I love seeing the joy my students express when their ideas come to life after pouring their heart and soul into their artwork,” Webb said. “It’s so rewarding having a class where students can express themselves freely, where every perspective matters. I love the ‘aha’ moments when a student who’s been struggling finally gets it and their face lights up with pride.”
Webb encourages her students to take creative risks and embrace imperfection. “I teach them that creativity takes courage and that mistakes are a good thing,” she said. “I love that the art room becomes many students’ happy place.”
“Robin is one of those teachers who just lights up every room she walks into,” said University Middle executive director, Joy Gilliam. “Every student deserves to have a teacher like her. She’s not only an incredibly talented art instructor but also a true cheerleader for her students, helping them believe in their ability to grow, recognize their progress, and take pride in how far they’ve come. She gives kids the confidence to find their voice and express their ideas in powerful ways. Mrs. Webb’s impact reaches FAR beyond the art room, and her Teacher of the Year recognition is such a well-deserved celebration of the joy and inspiration she brings to our entire University Middle community.”
From traditional projects like portraits, still-life drawing and perspective, to creative favorites like paper-mâché alebrijes and painting ceiling tiles, Webb’s classroom is a space for exploration, collaboration and joy.
Established in 1959, TAEA supports and celebrates excellence in visual arts education across the state. The organization’s Educator of the Year Awards recognizes art teachers who exemplify outstanding service, innovation and dedication to student growth.
Media Contact:
Parker King, Assistant Director
University Media and Public Relations
University of Memphis
(O) 901.678.4822
