LEXINGTON, S.C. — July 20, 2026 — The Lexington One Educational Foundation presented the 2026 Joseph M. Bedenbaugh Administrator of the Year Award to Mr. David F. Dixon, principal of Gilbert High School, at the Back to School Administrators’ Breakfast on July 16 held at Lexington High School.
This prestigious award is given annually to an outstanding administrator in Lexington County School District One who exemplifies exceptional leadership and dedication. A team of colleagues—including teachers, literacy coaches, and fellow administrators nominated Dixon for the award. Nominees were evaluated based on 23 specific leadership criteria established by Mr. Bedenbaugh himself, which emphasizes student-first decision-making, disciplined leadership, and a positive school climate.
Dixon began his education career as a teacher and coach in North Carolina. After stepping into administration, he served as principal at South Iredell High School (NC) from 2006 to 2010 and Northumberland High School (VA) from 2010 to 2013 before taking the helm at Gilbert High School. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in history from the Virginia Military Institute, as well as a Master of Secondary Education and a Master of Educational Leadership from West Virginia University. Dixon holds S.C. Leadership Professional certifications in elementary and secondary principalship, alongside S.C. Teaching Professional certifications in Middle Level Social Studies and Mathematics…