Matthew Button Honored as Outstanding Graduate by Distance Education Accrediting Commission

Washington, D.C. — April 21, 2026 — Matthew Button, a graduate of The School of Military Spiritual Formation at Anam Cara CPE—an affiliate of Clinical Pastoral Education International—has been recognized as an Outstanding Graduate by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC). The honor was presented at the DEAC Centennial Celebration Awards Luncheon in Washington, D.C.

The Outstanding Graduate Award recognizes individuals who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, professional development, and the ability to translate training into meaningful practice. Button was selected for his integration of clinical spiritual care formation with the realities of military chaplaincy, reflecting both disciplined study and grounded presence.

Anam Cara CPE's School of Military Spiritual Formation prepares chaplains to navigate the relational, institutional, and existential demands of military environments. Button's work reflects a commitment to presence-based care, emotional awareness, and the development of self as instrument in complex and high-pressure settings.

"This award points to the kind of work happening at Anam Cara—the commitment of students like Matthew, the quality of supervision he received from his supervisors, Susann Estle and Justin Lansdowne, and the support of CPEI that makes that formation possible," said Dr. Rick Capezza, Director of Anam Cara CPE.

The DEAC Centennial Celebration marks 100 years of accrediting distance education institutions across the United States, highlighting graduates who embody the highest standards of academic and professional excellence. Button's recognition places him among a select group of individuals whose work extends beyond the classroom into sustained, real-world impact.

The award was presented on April 21, 2026, in Washington, D.C., as part of DEAC's national centennial celebration.