David Dennis, longtime Scholar Bowl coach at Washington High School and Washington Middle School, has been named the recipient of the prestigious Carol Farmer Lifetime Achievement in Coaching Award.

The award, presented annually by the Missouri Academic Coaches Association (MACA), recognizes individuals who have made lasting and meaningful contributions to the field of academic competition. Dennis was a unanimous selection by the MACA officer team, a testament to his influence and legacy within the statewide Scholar Bowl community.

Dennis stepped away from the scholar bowl programs at Washington High School and Middle School following the 2024-25 school year. He is still teaching at the middle school. He served 19 years coaching scholar bowl, including 16 years at Washington Middle School and 11 years at Washington High School.

Under the direction of Dennis, the WHS Scholar Bowl team won the Class 4 state title in 2017 and placed second in Class 6 in 2021.

Named in honor of Carol Farmer - an iconic figure in Missouri quiz bowl history known for her leadership at North Shelby - the award highlights coaches who demonstrate exceptional leadership, mentorship, and program development throughout their careers. It is one of the highest honors bestowed by MACA, celebrating coaches whose impact extends beyond competition to shaping students’ academic growth and fostering a culture of excellence.

Dennis’s award was formally announced during the annual MACA Conference, held October 15 at the Stoney Creek Inn and Convention Center in Columbia. The recognition reflects his years of dedication to Scholar Bowl, his role in building successful programs at both the middle and high school levels, and his ongoing commitment to student achievement and academic enrichment.

Dennis joins a distinguished list of Missouri educators who have been recognized not only for wins and titles, but for cultivating curiosity, teamwork, and a passion for learning in generations of students.

David Dennis has been named the recipient of the Carol Farmer Lifetime Achievement in Coaching Award.