Asbury University alumnus C.D. Morton ’92, superintendent of Harlan Independent School District, was named Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) Superintendent of the Year in April. Morton received the award for his outstanding leadership and unwavering dedication to academic excellence.
Under Morton’s leadership, the district has thrived, fostering a culture where students and educators strive for success.
“I am incredibly honored to be named EKU Superintendent of the Year—an award that really belongs to the amazing ‘Family of Dragons’ at Harlan Independent,” Morton said. “The Board of Education has trusted me to lead this district for 12 exciting years, and the faculty and staff have embraced the call to champion a better path forward for our entire school community.”
Having led Harlan Independent for more than a decade, Morton credits his success to the support of dedicated educators and mentors throughout his career. His vision has remained clear: raise the bar for students and create opportunities for them to succeed. He and his team continue to focus on paving a brighter future and ensuring academic excellence for every student.
Morton’s roots in education trace back to Asbury University, where he built the foundation for his career.
“Asbury University was instrumental in providing a quality foundation for my career in education,” he said. “The Christian values and emphasis on serving others became hallmarks of my entire career.”
His time at Asbury shaped his leadership philosophy, blending academic excellence with spiritual purpose.
His daughter, Ella Morton ’25, who graduated from Asbury in May, reflected on her father’s influence: “While at Asbury, there were few days when I didn’t think of my dad. Who he is goes hand in hand with all that Asbury embodies. I will forever associate the two.”
Morton’s Christ-centered perspective continues to shape his work, highlighting education as both a vocation and a mission. Ella also noted Asbury’s deep impact on their family.
“My dad’s time at Asbury impacted me long before I knew it,” she said. “My life growing up was full of stories about Asbury, the people there, and the mark it left on my dad. I believe Asbury was a key player in the leader, father, and friend he is today.”
With 33 years in education and retirement approaching, Morton remains committed to using his influence for the greater good, demonstrating that education is not just about imparting knowledge but also about shaping lives with purpose.
Learn more about Asbury’s education programs here.