Becke Cleaver
B.A. in Elementary Education, ’74
M.A. in Special Education, ’80
Ed.D. in Instruction and Administration, ’97
Named to the Alumni Hall of Fame in 1991

As principal of the Fayette School, an alternative school for students at-risk of dropping out, Becke Cleaver developed an impressive record of encouraging young people to finish school or return to mainstream public education to earn their diplomas. Many have gone on to earn college degrees. In 1986-87, she was named Fayette County Special Education Teacher of the Year and was runner-up for a state teacher of the year honors. She is an author of several books and articles on special education. Most recently, she served as a principal in the Clark County school district. She earned her doctorate, master’s, and bachelor's degrees at the University of Kentucky and was inducted into the UK College of Education Hall of Fame in 1991. She also taught part time in the Department of Educational Leadership Studies.

Becke died unexpectedly on April 15, 2007, at the age of 56. The Becke Cleaver Scholarship Fund has been created as a tribute to her and her love for education. Gifts to this scholarship can be sent to: UK College of Education, c/o Mary Ann Vimont, 133 Dickey Hall, Lexington, KY 40506-0017.