Four alumni of the Mary Frances Early College of Education were recently named to the University of Georgia’s 40 Under 40 Class of 2026.
The 40 Under 40 program celebrates the personal, professional, and philanthropic achievements of UGA graduates who are under the age of 40.
This year, the College’s honorees are Drake Bernstein (B.S.Ed. ’11), Jason Edwards (B.S.Ed. ’15, M.S. ’18, Ed.D. ’23), Miranda Williams Thomas (B.S.Ed. ’17), and Samantha Weldon (M.A.T. ’16). Honorees exemplify leadership in their industries and communities and uphold the Pillars of the Arch, which are wisdom, justice, and moderation.
Bernstein, who earned his bachelor’s degree in sport management from the College, is a former UGA student-athlete who is now helping fellow student-athletes grow as competitors, students, and leaders.
After competing for Georgia men’s tennis from 2008-2011, he returned to Athens as an assistant coach before becoming head coach of the women’s tennis program in 2024. Under his leadership, the Bulldogs competed in three national championships and hold six combined SEC and national titles.
Beyond the tennis court, Bernstein serves on the UGA Athletic Staff Council, mentors student-athletes, and helps create opportunities for alumni and fans to stay connected to the University. A lifelong Bulldog, he views coaching as a chance to strengthen the UGA community while shaping the next generation of leaders, competitors, and citizens.
“I’m honored to be recognized alongside such an accomplished group of alumni,” said Bernstein. “I’ve been fortunate to learn from incredible mentors throughout my time at the University of Georgia. This recognition reflects the investment so many people have made in my journey. I hope to give back to Georgia the way that it has given so much to me.”
Edwards is a Triple Dawg of the College receiving his bachelor’s degree in health and physical education, master’s degree in kinesiology, and doctoral degree in educational leadership.
He serves as a public service faculty member with UGA’s J.W. Fanning Institute for Leadership Development, where he designs leadership programs and community partnerships that strengthen organizations, schools, and communities across Georgia.
His commitment to service began in the classroom, where he created a service-learning program connecting UGA students with Clarke County School District youth through mentoring, tutoring, and athletic development. The initiative helped spark the creation of Coaching 4 Success, which now serves hundreds of students across nine schools.
“UGA has given me far more than an education,” said Edwards. “It has given me purpose, lifelong friends, mentors, and the privilege of serving at an institution whose mission changes lives every day. As an out-of-state student who arrived in Athens not knowing anyone, I never imagined where this journey would lead. Being named to UGA’s 40 Under 40 is an incredible honor. I’m grateful to the students, professors, staff, mentors, and community partners who have shaped my journey, and I look forward to advancing UGA’s mission for many years to come.”
Thomas, who earned her bachelor’s degree in early childhood education from the College, is advancing education policy and advocating for student success through state government and nonprofit leadership.
Beginning her professional journey as special assistant to Georgia First Lady Sandra Deal, Thomas went on to serve in roles under Governors Nathan Deal and Brian Kemp, helping shape significant education initiatives affecting students, teachers, and families across Georgia.
Today, as southeast regional advocacy director and southeast legislative director for ExcelinEd and ExcelinEd in Action, she works across multiple states to advance student-centered policies. In her roles, she combines a classroom-based foundation in early childhood education with a passion for public policy, ensuring that legislative decisions reflect the realities faced by educators and students.
“Being named to UGA’s 2026 40 Under 40 is truly an honor,” said Thomas. “As a proud graduate of the Mary Frances Early College of Education, this recognition is especially meaningful because UGA played such an important role in shaping who I am as a leader and advocate for student-centered education policies. I’m grateful for the mentors, classmates, colleagues, and students who have challenged and inspired me along the way. This honor reminds me that the most meaningful accomplishments are rooted in serving others, and it motivates me to continue creating opportunities that help people and communities thrive.”
Weldon, who received her master’s degree in special education from the College, is improving the lives of children with developmental disabilities while mentoring the next generation of behavior analysts.
As the founder of Pure Heart Behavioral Therapy, her practice is focused on providing individualized, evidence-based applied behavior analysis services that help children develop communication, social-emotional, and daily living skills.
Weldon remains closely connected to UGA through guest lecturing, mentoring students, and supporting the Center for Autism and Behavioral Education Research. Her commitment to service extends throughout Georgia via school partnerships, advocacy for children with special needs, and the creation of Anna’s Gift, a respite care program that provides meaningful support for families and caregivers.
“Being named one of UGA’s 40 Under 40 is a profound full-circle moment,” said Weldon. “As a proud Double Dawg, my time in Athens—from analyzing animal behavior to receiving elite clinical training in the Mary Frances Early College of Education—shaped my mission as a board-certified behavioral analyst and entrepreneur. This recognition honors not just my journey, but the families Pure Heart Behavioral Therapy serves and the UGA students and graduates I now employ. It is a daily reminder to lead with service while raising the next generation of Bulldogs.”
The Class of 2026 will be recognized during UGA’s annual 40 Under 40 Awards Luncheon on campus in September.