Dr. Maisha L. Jack, ’95, was honored with the Professional Achievement Award from Eastern Kentucky University (EKU). The Best of Eastern Alumni Awards, presented annually during Homecoming weekend, celebrate excellence among EKU alumni. The Professional Achievement Award recognizes individuals who have made significant and lasting service to their field, earning the respect and admiration of their peers and colleagues.
Born and raised in Winchester, Kentucky, Jack has built a life defined by faith, resilience and service to others. A standout student-athlete, she accepted a full basketball scholarship to EKU after an extraordinary high school career that included a state track championship, four straight trips to the Kentucky Girls’ Sweet Sixteen and recognition as the 1991 Kentucky Female Athlete of the Year. At EKU, she thrived both on the court and in the classroom, earning her degree in child and family studies before pursuing advanced studies in education and leadership.
However, it was also during her time at EKU that Jack faced one of the most devastating challenges of her life. When her mother passed away, the grief was profound, but Jack found strength in her faith and her family and began to write.
Today, Jack is an Amazon #1 International Best-Selling Author, entrepreneur, educator and international speaker whose work centers on advocacy, empowerment and healing. Her books—ranging from a memoir to children’s stories and devotionals—celebrate resilience, representation and joy, inspiring readers of all ages. She is also the founder of The Honey Butter Company, LLC, through which she continues her mission of uplifting children, families and communities.
For her dedication to education and community impact, Jack was honored with the Key to the City of Winchester and commissioned as a Kentucky Colonel by Gov. Andy Beshear. Now working with the Georgia Department of Education, she continues to inspire others.
“Success is accomplishing the goals that I set before myself and being able to help others with the benefits that come from it,” said Jack.
EKU’s Office of Development and Alumni Engagement is accepting nominations for the 2026 Best of Eastern Awards. Learn more and nominate a well-deserving EKU alum at go.eku.edu/alumniawards.
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