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.
“I was truly surprised and deeply honored to hear my name announced as the recipient of the 2026 Joseph Bedenbaugh Award. This is an incredible honor and I accept it with a grateful and humble heart. One of the greatest lessons I have learned about leadership is that it is never a solo endeavor. While my name may be on this award, this recognition belongs to an extraordinary administrative team that believes in our shared vision for Gilbert High School and works tirelessly each day to serve our students, staff and community,” said Dixon.
The award’s namesake, Joseph M. Bedenbaugh, was a member of the original 1952 Lexington District One staff. He dedicated 36 years to the district, serving as a seventh-grade math teacher, principal, and assistant superintendent for personnel and federal programs before retiring in 1982.
About the Lexington County School District One Educational Foundation Established in 1994 as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, the Lexington One Educational Foundation serves as a vital pillar of support for Lexington County School District One. The Foundation’s mission is to enrich the local community and enhance educational programming by supporting learning, empowering growth, and inspiring excellence. Through annual strategic partnerships with individuals and corporations, the Foundation channels critical resources directly into classrooms to benefit students and teachers alike.To learn more about our mission and impact, visit www.Lex1EdFound.org.
