Category: Press Releases

Alexandria, VA — The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) has named 26 fellows to its 2026 ACTE National Leadership Fellowship Program. The program equips CTE professionals with leadership skills, policy knowledge, firsthand advocacy experience, and professional growth. The names of the 2026 fellows are provided below.  

Early Professionals Fellows: 

• Dimitri Ashby- Woonsocket Education Department 

• Brittney Brisco – Bibb County School District 

• Alicia Cook, Ed.D. – Wilco Area Career Center 

• Joshua Carter, Ed.D. – Crowder College 

• Joshua Gibson – Jay County High School 

• Tasha Jackson – River Parishes Community College 

• Fawn Wilde – Western Dakota Technical College 

• Aaron Diaz – Amplus Academy 

• Aiden Flynn – Stafford County Public Schools 

• Hunter Christmas – Centennial High School | Las Cruces Public Schools 

• Heather Dutrey – Clarke, Interstate 35, & Murray Community School Districts 

 Experienced Professional Fellows: 

• Dipal Kapadia, Ed.D. – Lehigh Career & Technical Institute 

• Samantha McGuane, Ed.D.  – Bay Path Regional Vocational Technical High School 

• Matthew Bechtel – Fairfax County Public Schools 

• Jason Cooper – Cleburne Independent School District 

• Robyn Castleberry – Moore Norman Technology Center 

• Pam Kantack – Shelley School District 

• Danielle Meyer – Prince William County Public Schools 

• Courtney McCubbins – Mississippi State University– Research and Curriculum Unit 

• Leslie Cooksey – Metro Technology Centers 

• Devon Anderson Winters, Ed.D. – Waterloo Community Schools 

• Kristi Lebkowsky, Ph.D. – Klamath County School District 

• Christina Sargent – Rancho High School 

• Nicole A Graves – South Dakota State University 

• Kaye Harris – Polk County Schools 

• Gina R Smith, DBA – Robert W Groves High School 

Fellows dedicate a full year, from January 1 to December 31, to the ACTE National Leadership Fellowship Program. The 2026 cohort includes fellows from all five ACTE regions and most divisions. Doug Major, Ed.D. and Dawn Lindsley, Ed.D. serve as Fellowship Coordinators, supporting Experienced and Early Professionals in their respective roles. 

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About ACTE 

The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) is the nation’s largest not-for-profit association committed to the advancement of education that prepares youth and adults for successful careers. ACTE represents the community of CTE professionals, including educators, administrators, researchers, school counselors, guidance and career development professionals and others at all levels of education. ACTE is committed to excellence in providing advocacy, public awareness and access to resources, professional development and leadership opportunities. 

Alexandria, VA — The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) is pleased to announce the selection of seventeen outstanding mentees and eleven committed mentors for the 2026 CTE for All Mentorship Program. ACTE is also proud to partner with IMAGO to support this year’s mentorship experience.

The 2026 CTE for All Mentorship Program will officially begin in February 2026 and conclude in December 2026. Throughout the program, mentors and mentees will participate in one‑on‑one mentoring sessions, professional development workshops, program-of-work activities, and valuable networking opportunities.

For more information about the mentorship program or to learn more about future opportunities, please visit the CTE for All Mentorship Program webpage.

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About ACTE 

The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) is the nation’s largest not-for-profit association committed to the advancement of education that prepares youth and adults for successful careers. ACTE represents the community of CTE professionals, including educators, administrators, researchers, school counselors, guidance and career development professionals and others at all levels of education. ACTE is committed to excellence in providing advocacy, public awareness and access to resources, professional development and leadership opportunities. 

Alexandria, VA/Columbus, OH — The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) and MBA Research and Curriculum Center are pleased to announce a new strategic collaboration that will integrate MBA Research’s annual Conclave: A Curriculum and Teaching Conference with ACTE’s CareerTech VISION 2026, happening Dec. 2–5 in New Orleans, Louisiana. 

For years, Conclave has been the premier national professional development conference designed specifically for business and marketing educators. This event has served as a hub for secondary and postsecondary teachers to connect with industry leaders, share best practices in pedagogy and explore the latest trends in the business world to ensure classroom instruction and standards stay relevant.  

Through this event integration, ACTE and MBA Research are advancing their shared commitment to high-quality professional learning and strong industry connections. By merging Conclave with VISION, the nation’s largest annual gathering of career and technical education (CTE) professionals, the organizations will create a more comprehensive and collaborative experience for business and marketing CTE professionals nationwide. 

MBA Research and ACTE’s Business Education Division will work in close collaboration to curate and develop high-quality CTE programming that reflects shared priorities and collective expertise. Through this partnership, MBA Research will draw on its strong relationships with leading business professionals and bring its annual consortium of state leaders to VISION, fostering deeper collaboration, strengthening the community of practice and elevating the visibility of business education within the broader CTE ecosystem. This strategic partnership further underscores ACTE’s leadership in convening the CTE community while highlighting the power of collaboration to expand professional development opportunities, strengthen cross-disciplinary connections and amplify the collective impact of business and marketing CTE nationwide. 

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About MBA Research  

MBA Research and Curriculum Center is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to the research, development, and dissemination of materials for teachers in business, marketing, finance, hospitality and tourism management, and entrepreneurship. 

About the ACTE Business Division  

The ACTE Business Education Division represents more than 3,000 secondary and postsecondary educators, administrators, business leaders, teacher educators and students in business education. Proudly celebrating its 100th anniversary, ACTE is the nation’s largest nonprofit association dedicated to advancing education that prepares learners for successful careers. 

ACTE Announces Board of Directors 2026 Election Results 

Alexandria, VA – The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) is pleased to announce the results of the recent election for several spots on its Board of Directors. The election was open to ACTE’s membership of roughly 30,000 educators, administrators, and other CTE professionals. The following members were elected: 

Michael Culwell, President-Elect
Michael Culwell, Campus Director at Kiamichi Tech in Poteau, Oklahoma, will serve a one-year term beginning in July 2026, followed by one-year as president and one-year as past president per the normal election cycle. 

Alison Belliveau, Administration Division Vice President-Elect: Alison Belliveau, CTE Executive Director & Principal at Rockwall Independent School District in Rockwall, TX, will serve a one-year shadow term beginning July 2026, followed by a three-year term beginning July 2027  

Rachel Knight, Agricultural Education Vice President-Elect: Rachel Knight, Career Specialist & Agriculture Educator at Las Cruces Public Schools in Las Cruces, NM, will serve a one-year shadow term beginning July 2026, followed by a three-year term beginning July 2027. 

Jennifer Breman, Counseling and Career Development Division Vice President-Elect: Jennifer Breman, Career and Technical Education Program Specialist at Alachua County Public Schools in Gainesville, Florida, will serve a one-year shadow term beginning July 2026, followed by a three-year term beginning July 2027 

Christian Lin Zimmerman, Postsecondary, Adult & Career Education Division Vice President-Elect: Christian Lin Zimmerman, Assistant Director of Career and Technical Education Programs at University of Central Florida in Orlando, Florida, will serve a one-year shadow term beginning July 2026, followed by a three-year term beginning July 2027 

Josephine Wolfe, Trade & Industrial Education Vice President: Josephine Wolfe, Instructor & SkillsUSA Advisor at Center of Applied Technology North in Severn, Maryland, will serve a three-year term beginning July 2026. 

Dawn Ulmer, Work-Based Learning Division Vice President-Elect: Dawn Ulmer, Strategic Project Manager at North Dakota Department of Career and Technical Education in Bismarck, North Dakota, will serve a one-year shadow term beginning July 2026, followed by a three-year term beginning July 2027 

Pepper Poulsen, Region V Vice President-Elect: Pepper Poulsen, CTE Coordinator at Jordan School District in South Jordan, Utah, will serve a one-year shadow term beginning July 2026, followed by a three-year term beginning July 2027. 

*Ashley Adams, Engineering & Technology Education Vice President: Ashley Adams, Executive Director of Creative Educators Network/Arts Media and Entertainment Institute in Los Angeles, CA was appointed by the Board of Directors and will serve a three-year term beginning July 2026. 

Additionally, the vice presidents-elect who were elected last year will join the Board as vice presidents in July 2026. Michael Herrera will assume the role of Region I Vice President, and Michael Ogas will assume the role of Region IV Vice President. 

ACTE congratulates the winners and extends its sincere appreciation to all candidates for their willingness to serve, as well as their hard work, dedication, and commitment to the Association. ACTE also thanks its members who made their voices heard by participating in the election. 

*This position was appointed 

Alabama ACTE Honored for Exceptional Membership Growth in FY25

ALEXANDRIA, Va. — The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) has recognized Alabama ACTE with top honors in its annual Membership Awards for fiscal year 2025. Alabama ACTE distinguished itself by welcoming the greatest number of new national members and achieving the highest percentage growth in new national members. Over the past year, Alabama ACTE expanded its national membership by 723 individuals, reaching a total of 1,029 members—a remarkable 349% increase in new national members.

Alabama’s achievement was celebrated during the State Association Leadership Breakfast at ACTE’s CareerTech VISION 2025, where state leaders and associations were recognized for growth and excellence in service to CTE professionals. The breakfast was held on Friday, December 12, 2025, and was generously sponsored by Forrest T. Jones and College Board.

“These Membership Awards highlight the momentum we’re seeing across the country—and Alabama’s results stand out,” said Kelli Diemer, Senior Director of Membership. “Growing both the largest number of new national members and the highest percentage increase is an exceptional accomplishment that reflects strong leadership and a clear value proposition for CTE educators statewide.”

The Membership Awards recognize three achievements each year:
• Largest number of new national members;
• Highest percentage increase in new national members; and
• Highest retention rate across the past fiscal year.

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About Alabama ACTE

The mission of the Alabama Association for Career and Technical Education is to empower Career and Technical Education (CTE) while advancing the accessibility and quality of student education. Our vision is to bridge the gap between Career and Technical Education (CTE), business, and industry. The organization aims to advance CTE policies, practices, and programs that prepare students for success in careers and post-secondary education.

About ACTE
The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) is the nation’s largest not‑for‑profit association committed to advancing education that prepares youth and adults for successful careers. ACTE represents the community of CTE professionals, including educators, administrators, researchers and counselors, and provides advocacy, public awareness, resources, professional development and leadership opportunities.

ACTE Announces California CTE Animation & Video Production Teacher as the 2026 National Winner 

 ALEXANDRIA, VA – Today, the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced Matthew Waynee, CTE Animation & Video Production Teacher at Los Angeles Unified School District in Los Angeles, CA as the 2026 ACTE Teacher of the Year – National Winner. This award recognizes the finest career and technical education teachers at the middle/secondary school level who have demonstrated innovation in the classroom, commitment to their students and dedication to the improvement of CTE in their institutions and communities. The Teacher of the Year Award is sponsored by Express Employment Professionals.  

Matthew Waynee is a veteran educator and accomplished screenwriter with more than two decades of experience in both the entertainment industry and the classroom. Originally from Michigan, Waynee earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Notre Dame and later completed a master’s degree at the University of Southern California (USC). He now teaches at the USC Media Arts & Engineering Magnet in the Los Angeles Unified School District, where he helped design and launch the school’s CTE Video Production and Animation pathways from the ground up. 

Waynee has become a driving force in expanding access to authentic, industry-connected learning for students pursuing Arts, Media, and Entertainment (AME) careers. He has secured nearly $3 million in grant funding and forged strong partnerships with leading entertainment companies, including DreamWorks, Nickelodeon, Illumination Pictures, NBC/Universal, and Warner Bros. His CTE Animation pathway is one of only three programs in North America selected to participate in a year-long mentorship initiative with Nickelodeon Studios. 

In addition to his work with students, Waynee plays an influential role in shaping AME education statewide. He served on the Education Advisory Team responsible for revising California’s CTE standards for all AME pathways—which was approved by the California Department of Education in November 2025. He also shares his expertise on national stages, presenting at conferences and events such as the ACTE CareerTech VISION Conference and San Diego Comic Con. 

Most recently, in collaboration with the BRIC Foundation, Waynee authored the nation’s first U.S. Department of Labor and Division of Apprenticeship Standards–registered Animation, Game Design & VFX Apprenticeship Program. This groundbreaking initiative provides students with a direct, structured pathway from the classroom into high-demand creative industries, underscoring his commitment to preparing learners for meaningful, future-ready careers. 

Waynee was one of five finalists for the 2026 national title. The national winner was announced at the Awards Gala, recognizing the best CTE educators in the country. The event took place on December 9, at ACTE’s CareerTech VISION 2025. The Awards Gala was sponsored by Express Employment Professionals, Goodheart-Willcox, The U.S. Army, and Stratasys. For more information about the ACTE Excellence Awards, visit our webpage.  

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About ACTE
The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) is the nation’s largest not-for-profit association committed to the advancement of education that prepares youth and adults for successful careers. ACTE represents the community of CTE professionals, including educators, administrators, researchers, school counselors, guidance and career development professionals and others at all levels of education. ACTE is committed to excellence in providing advocacy, public awareness and access to resources, professional development and leadership opportunities. 

ACTE Announces Tennessee EPP Supervisor at Knox County Schools as the 2026 National Winner 

 ALEXANDRIA, VA—Today, the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced Ulla Carr, EPP Supervisor at Knox County Schools (KCS) in Knoxville, TN, as the 2026 ACTE Teacher Educator of the Year – National Winner. This award recognizes teacher educators who have demonstrated innovation in teacher education, leadership in improving CTE, and commitment to preparing teachers to deliver high quality CTE programs.  

Ulla Carr, Educator Preparation Program (EPP) Supervisor for Knox County Schools (KCS) in Tennessee, is honored for her outstanding leadership in developing and sustaining a strong pipeline of future Career and Technical Education (CTE) teachers. Now guiding her sixth cohort of aspiring CTE educators, Carr oversees a rigorous preparation model that blends coursework, individualized coaching, and structured mentoring. Serving 17 school districts, the KCS EPP is on track to welcome its 100th program completer next school year. 

Carr’s influence reaches well beyond Knox County. She serves on the State Board of Education’s Licensure Review Committee and previously contributed her expertise to the Tennessee Department of Education’s Educator Preparation Working Group from 2021–2023. She has also been deeply involved in professional leadership, including on the Tennessee ACTE (TNACTE) board, where she served as president from 2021–2023. Through these roles, she has helped shape educator preparation policy and strengthen professional expectations for teachers statewide. 

Prior to leading the EPP, Carr worked as a CTE Specialist for KCS, supporting nearly 200 CTE instructors and guiding new teachers as they transitioned into the classroom. She also served the Tennessee Department of Education as a CTE Literacy Common Core Coach, collaborating with districts across East Tennessee to enhance instructional practices. Earlier in her career, she spent a decade teaching Business and German at West High School in Knoxville, where she also served as Lead Teacher, Department Chair, Lead Mentor, and Professional Development Specialist for the district’s CTE Department. 

Carr earned an Education Specialist degree in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies from the University of Tennessee—graduating with a perfect 4.0 GPA—as well as a master’s degree in business education from Friedrich-Schiller-University in Jena, Germany. She holds both a PreK–12 Educational Administration License and a Tennessee Professional Teacher License in Business Education and German. 

As a national award winner, Carr is celebrated for her vision, commitment, and enduring contributions to teacher preparation in Tennessee. Her work to build robust support structures, elevate professional learning, and empower new educators continues to strengthen CTE programs and enrich classrooms across the state. 

Carr was one of five finalists for the 2026 national title. The national winner was announced at the Awards Gala, recognizing the best CTE educators in the country. The event took place on December 9, at ACTE’s CareerTech VISION 2025. The Awards Gala was sponsored by Express Employment Professionals, Goodheart-Willcox, The U.S. Army, and Stratasys. For more information about the ACTE Excellence Awards, visit our webpage.  

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About ACTE
The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) is the nation’s largest not-for-profit association committed to the advancement of education that prepares youth and adults for successful careers. ACTE represents the community of CTE professionals, including educators, administrators, researchers, school counselors, guidance and career development professionals and others at all levels of education. ACTE is committed to excellence in providing advocacy, public awareness and access to resources, professional development and leadership opportunities. 

ACTE Announces Arkansas Teaching Assistant Professor, as  National Award Winner 

ALEXANDRIA, VA—Today, the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced   Sheri Deaton, Teaching Assistant Professor at University of Arkansas, in Fayetteville, AR, as the 2026 ACTE Postsecondary Professional of the Year – National Winner. This award recognizes the finest career and technical education (CTE) educators at the postsecondary school level who have demonstrated innovation in the classroom, commitment to their students and dedication to the improvement of CTE in their institutions and communities.  The Postsecondary Professional of the Year Award is sponsored by Goodheart-Willcox 

Sheri Deaton’s career reflects a deep commitment to preparing future educators and elevating career and technical education (CTE) at every level. As a Teaching Assistant Professor of Career and Technical Education at the University of Arkansas and Director of the Bessie Moore Center for Economic Education, she draws on more than 20 years of experience as a National Board-Certified teacher who has taught middle school, high school, and college courses. Her work blends practical, hands-on instruction with strong academic foundations, preparing students to excel in both classrooms and careers. 

Deaton’s educational journey began in family and consumer sciences, earning her BSE and MAT before spending three years teaching at Glen Rose High School and another ten at White Hall High School. In 2016, she transitioned to higher education as an instructor at the University of Arkansas, later completing her Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction in 2021. Altogether, she devoted 13 years to teaching in Arkansas public schools before joining the university faculty. 

At the University of Arkansas, Deaton teaches an extensive portfolio of undergraduate and graduate courses—ranging from Introduction to Education and Classroom Management to Career Development, Assessment, and specialized apparel and interior design courses for Family and Consumer Sciences education majors. She oversees all CTE student teachers, advises the university’s FCCLA chapter, and frequently shares her research and expertise through presentations and professional development sessions at the departmental, state, and national levels. 

Since becoming part of the faculty, she has led significant revisions to the undergraduate CTE program, strengthening the connection between theory and practice and ensuring student teachers enter the field confidently and well-prepared. Her innovative teaching and student-centered leadership earned national recognition in 2021, when she was named a National Finalist for Post-Secondary Teacher Educator of the Year. 

As a national award winner, Deaton is celebrated for her leadership, mentorship, and commitment to shaping a strong CTE workforce. Her work continues to uplift future educators and expands the reach and impact of career and technical education across the country. 

Deaton was one of five finalists for the 2026 national title. The national winner was announced at the Awards Gala, recognizing the best CTE educators in the country. The event took place on December 9, at ACTE’s CareerTech VISION 2025. The Awards Gala was sponsored by Express Employment Professionals, Goodheart-Willcox, The U.S. Army, and Stratasys. For more information about the ACTE Excellence Awards, visit our webpage.  

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About ACTE
The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) is the nation’s largest not-for-profit association committed to the advancement of education that prepares youth and adults for successful careers. ACTE represents the community of CTE professionals, including educators, administrators, researchers, school counselors, guidance and career development professionals and others at all levels of education. ACTE is committed to excellence in providing advocacy, public awareness and access to resources, professional development and leadership opportunities.  

ACTE Announces New Mexico Teacher as National Award Winner 

 ALEXANDRIA, VA—Today, the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced Paden P. Hagler, Energy Instructor at Lovington Municipal Schools, in Lovington, New Mexico as the 2026 ACTE New Teacher of the Year – National Winner.   This award recognizes new CTE teachers who have made significant contributions toward innovative and unique career and technical education programs and shown a professional commitment early in their careers. The New Teacher of the Year Award is sponsored by Goodheart-Willcox.  

Paden Hagler, an innovative educator and seasoned industry professional, is being recognized nationally for his leadership in advancing energy education at Lovington High School. A proud Texico, New Mexico native, Hagler brings a blend of authenticity, determination, and industry insight to his classroom—qualities that have shaped his journey from a small-town student to a powerful force in Career and Technical Education (CTE). 

Hagler’s connection to skilled trades began in high school, where he discovered a talent for welding. His early achievements included winning a gold medal in the New Mexico FFA Agricultural Mechanics competition and earning Grand Champion honors at the NM State Fair for a custom-built trailer. He remained rooted in his community throughout college, attending Eastern New Mexico University near his family farm, where he broadened his focus to education and leadership. 

During his time at ENMU, Hagler distinguished himself through multiple leadership roles—serving as Collegiate FFA Chapter President, Student Senator, and later Student Body Vice President. His outstanding service earned him the university’s “Student Leader of the Year” award. He graduated Summa Cum Laude in 2018 with a degree in Agricultural Education. 

Hagler then spent five years in the oil and gas sector as both a welder and an emissions specialist. This hands-on experience strengthened his respect for the industry and inspired a desire to open doors for students interested in energy careers. When Lovington High School began building an energy program in 2022, Hagler recognized the opportunity as the perfect intersection of his skills and mission. 

Since entering the classroom, Hagler has been instrumental in establishing the Oilfield Pre-Employment Pathway and now serves on multiple multi-state boards dedicated to energy education. He also co-founded Lovington High School’s SkillsUSA chapter, which has quickly grown into the district’s largest Career and Technical Student Organization. 

With a deep commitment to preparing students for real-world opportunities, Hagler continues to bring industry relevance and purpose-driven teaching to his work. His efforts are cultivating the next generation of energy professionals and demonstrating the profound impact an inspired educator can make. 

Hagler was one of five finalists for the 2026 national title. The national winner was announced at the Awards Gala, recognizing the best CTE educators in the country. The event took place on December 9, at ACTE’s CareerTech VISION 2025. The Awards Gala was sponsored by Express Employment Professionals, Goodheart-Willcox, The U.S. Army, and Stratasys. For more information about the ACTE Excellence Awards, visit our webpage.  

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About ACTE
The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) is the nation’s largest not-for-profit association committed to the advancement of education that prepares youth and adults for successful careers. ACTE represents the community of CTE professionals, including educators, administrators, researchers, school counselors, guidance and career development professionals and others at all levels of education. ACTE is committed to excellence in providing advocacy, public awareness and access to resources, professional development and leadership opportunities. 

 

ACTE Announces North Carolina Retired CEO for Emerald Education as the 2026 National Award Winner 

ALEXANDRIA, VA—Today, the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced June St. Clair Atkinson, Retired CEO for Emerald Education in Raleigh, NC, as the          2026 ACTE Lifetime Achievement Award – National Winner. This award recognizes CTE professionals for their leadership on behalf of ACTE, their innovations in CTE and their contributions to the field over an extended period. ACTE also inducted all five Lifetime Achievement national finalists into the ACTE Hall of Fame. The Hall of Fame honors the leadership of CTE professionals who have made enduring contributions to CTE throughout their career.  

A respected and visionary educator, June St. Clair Atkinson has dedicated her career to expanding opportunities for students and strengthening public education systems. She made history as the first woman elected State Superintendent of the Public Schools of North Carolina, serving from August 2005 to December 2016, and later continued her work in education leadership as CEO of Emerald Education. Her commitment to elevating achievement, supporting educators, and advancing career and technical education has left a lasting impact at both the state and national levels. 

During her time as State Superintendent, Atkinson championed transformative initiatives that elevated North Carolina’s high school graduation rate from 68 percent to nearly 86 percent—an unprecedented milestone. She visited all 115 school districts across the state, engaging directly with educators, parents, students, and business leaders to drive meaningful improvements. Among her many contributions, she helped advance the adoption of career clusters and strengthened pathways that support students transitioning from high school to higher education and the workforce. 

Atkinson began her career as a business education teacher in Roanoke, Virginia, and Charlotte, North Carolina, before moving into influential leadership roles at the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI). Her work as a chief consultant and director in business education, career and technical education, and instructional services showcased her deep commitment to professional development, curriculum design, and instructional excellence. 

Her legacy has been recognized through numerous prestigious awards, including the Champion of Children Award from the North Carolina Association of School Administrators, the State Policy Maker of the Year Award from the National Association for State Educational Technology Directors, and the Inclusive Leadership Award from the North Carolina Association of Educators. She has also earned Delta Kappa Gamma’s Founders Award, the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, the Frances Jones Trailblazer Award, and induction into the East Carolina University Education Hall of Fame. Most recently, she received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the North Carolina Association of Career Technical Education. 

Beyond her work in North Carolina, Atkinson has been a prominent national leader, serving as President of the National Business Education Association, President of the Council of Chief State School Officers, and President of the state directors of career and technical education, now Advance CTE. 

Atkinson holds a bachelor’s degree in business education from Radford University, a master’s degree in vocational and technical education from Virginia Tech, and a doctorate in Educational Leadership and Policy from North Carolina State University. She has also been awarded a Doctor of Humane Letters by Campbell University. 

Atkinson was one of five finalists for the 2026 national title. The national winner was announced at the Awards Gala, recognizing the best CTE educators in the country. The event took place on December 9, at ACTE’s CareerTech VISION 2025. The Awards Gala was sponsored by Express Employment Professionals, Goodheart-Willcox, The U.S. Army, and Stratasys. For more information about the ACTE Excellence Awards, visit our webpage.  

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About ACTE
The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) is the nation’s largest not-for-profit association committed to the advancement of education that prepares youth and adults for successful careers. ACTE represents the community of CTE professionals, including educators, administrators, researchers, school counselors, guidance and career development professionals and others at all levels of education. ACTE is committed to excellence in providing advocacy, public awareness and access to resources, professional development and leadership opportunities.