Category: Press Releases

ACTE Announces Nevada Retired Assistant Director as National Award Finalist 

ALEXANDRIA, VA—Today, the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced Melissa Scott, Retired Assistant Director at the Nevada Department of Education, as the 2025 ACTE Region V Lifetime Achievement and Hall of Fame Award recipient. This award recognizes the finest career and technical education (CTE) educators 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.  

Melissa has over 25 years of experience in career and technical education and workforce development. She retired from the Nevada Department of Education, as Assistant Director in the Office of Career Readiness, Adult Learning and Education Options where she was responsible for state and Perkins grants management, as well as business/marketing, information and media technologies, and work-based learning program areas.  She also helped develop Nevada’s K12 computer science initiative.  

Now, through her consulting company Career Tech Strategies, LLC, she provides support to career and technical student organizations and CTE education organizations and agencies. She is an active member of ACTE, Nevada ACTE, and National Association of Supervisors of Business Education (NASBE). Professional memberships include National Business Education Association (NBEA), DECA and FBLA. 

Melissa is a graduate of the University of Texas and Louisiana Tech University.  Her teaching experience ranges from Pre-K to postsecondary.  

Scott is one of five finalists for the 2025 national title. The national winner will be announced at the ACTE Awards Gala, an award presentation recognizing the best CTE educators in the country. The event will take place on December 4, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. The Awards Gala is sponsored by Express Employment Professionals, Goodheart-Willcox, The 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 Retired Teacher as National Award Finalist 

ALEXANDRIA, VA—Today, the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced Mary Smith, Retired Family & Consumer Sciences Teacher in Manila, AK as the 2025 ACTE Region IV Lifetime Achievement and Hall of Fame Award recipient. This award recognizes the finest career and technical education (CTE) educators 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.  

Mary Lindsey Smith began her teaching career in January 1983, stepping into what was then known as Home Economics with the Etowah School District in West Ridge, Arkansas. Initially planning to teach for just a semester before returning to graduate school to pursue a career as a dietician, Mary quickly discovered that teaching was her true calling. The small, close-knit community and supportive environment of her first school made a lasting impression, and by the end of that first semester, she knew she had found her lifelong profession. 

Over the years, Mary has taught nearly all of Arkansas’ Family & Consumer Sciences courses, in addition to Career Orientation and 7th grade Life Science. Her dedication to her students extended beyond the classroom, as she also coached tennis, track & field, and cross country, sponsored junior and senior classes, drove a school bus, and advised an active Career and Technical Student Organization (CTSO), leading students to participate in local, regional, state, and national programs and competitions. 

Mary’s involvement in the broader educational community has been extensive. She has been an active member of the Arkansas Association for Career & Technical Education (AACTE) and has served as a committee chair and board member of the Arkansas Association for Teachers of Family & Consumer Sciences (AATFACS). In collaboration with Arkansas Career & Technical Education, Mary helped develop and author several Family & Consumer Sciences courses, including those in the Nutrition Science & Dietetics program of study. 

Throughout her career, Mary has shared her expertise through professional development sessions at the school, district, state, and national levels, including presentations at ACTE’s Vision conference. Her passion for teaching life skills to today’s youth has been a driving force in her career, and even as she prepares to retire from the classroom at the end of the current school year, Mary plans to continue supporting her colleagues and contributing to professional development in any way she can. 

Mary firmly believes that the skills taught through Career and Technical Education, and Family & Consumer Sciences in particular, are essential to the success of not only her students but society as a whole. Her dedication to education and her impact on countless students and educators throughout her career leaves a legacy. 

Smith is one of five finalists for the 2025 national title. The national winner will be announced at the ACTE Awards Gala, an award presentation recognizing the best CTE educators in the country. The event will take place on December 4, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. The Awards Gala is sponsored by Express Employment Professionals, Goodheart-Willcox, The 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 Illinois Retired Teacher as National Award Finalist 

ALEXANDRIA, VA—Today, the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced Cindy Stover, Past-Executive Director/Consultant for the Illinois Association for Career & Technical Education in Lincoln, IL as the 2025 ACTE Region III Lifetime Achievement and Hall of Fame. This award recognizes the finest career and technical education (CTE) educators 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.  

Cindy has been a dedicated advocate and leader in Career and Technical Education (CTE) for more than thirty-five years, consistently working to provide high-quality services to the CTE community. Throughout her career, Cindy has been an active and influential member of both the Illinois Association for Career and Technical Education (IACTE) and the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE). Her leadership roles have been numerous and impactful, including serving as Executive Director/Consultant for IACTE, a member of the ACTE Board of Directors, ACTE Region III President, ACTE Fellowship Program Coordinator, and Past President of IACTE. 

Cindy is widely recognized for her commitment to continuous improvement, innovative thinking, and her ability to drive meaningful change. She is not only a leader but also a mentor, known for her collaborative nature and her dedication to coaching others to success. Many colleagues, including those who have served in leadership roles within IACTE, have benefited from her guidance and mentorship, witnessing firsthand how she shares her wealth of knowledge and experience to encourage and advance their careers. 

Cindy’s contributions to CTE in Illinois are outstanding. She has been a key advocate, frequently meeting with legislators to secure funding and emphasize the critical role that CTE plays in both education and economic development. As an active scholar, Cindy has presented numerous workshops, led conference sessions, and participated in panels, consistently demonstrating her ability to articulate complex ideas and inspire a shared vision for the future of CTE. 

Her career in education, spanning over three decades, has had a lasting impact on the CTE community. Cindy’s willingness to embrace innovation and change has led to the development of extraordinary programs that serve as models for others. Her distinguished career is a testament to her unparalleled contributions and her legacy of lifetime achievement in CTE. Cindy’s leadership, risk-taking, and ability to inspire others have left an indelible mark on the field, and her influence will continue to shape the future of CTE for years to come. 

Stover is one of five finalists for the 2025 national title. The national winner will be announced at the ACTE Awards Gala, an award presentation recognizing the best CTE educators in the country. The event will take place on December 4, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. The Awards Gala is sponsored by Express Employment Professionals, Goodheart-Willcox, The 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 Georgia Retired Teacher as National Award Finalist 

ALEXANDRIA, VA—Today, the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced Cynthia Greene, Former Program Specialist for Business & Information Technology, Former Business Teacher & Former Business Manager for GACTE in Marietta, GA, as the 2025 ACTE Region II Lifetime Achievement and Hall of Fame. This award recognizes the finest career and technical education (CTE) educators 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.  

Cynthia Greene has dedicated over four decades to education and curriculum development, specializing in business, entrepreneurship, and computer science. Her vast experience includes roles with the Jackson County and Fulton County School Systems, the Georgia Department of Education, and major educational publishers such as National Geographic, Cengage, Southwestern Publishing Company, and Thomson Learning. 

Following her retirement from the Georgia Department of Education (GADOE), Cynthia continued her commitment to advancing education by joining the Georgia Association for Career & Technical Education (GACTE) as the Business Manager. In this role, she played a pivotal part in driving the organization forward by managing membership promotion, overseeing conference logistics, and maintaining financial records. 

Cynthia’s outstanding contributions to education have been recognized with numerous prestigious awards, including the Georgia Association for Career and Technical Education Lifetime Achievement Award, the Business Education Hall of Fame Award, the NBEA Supervision Award, and the SBEA Supervision Award. She has also been honored as Secondary Teacher of the Year by both the National Business Education Association (NBEA) and the Southern Business Education Association (SBEA) and was named STAR Teacher and Teacher of the Year at North Springs High School. 

An active member of several professional organizations, Cynthia has held leadership positions within the Association for Career & Technical Education, the Georgia Association for Career & Technical Education, the National Business Education Association, and the Southern Business Education Association, where she has served as President, Past President, and President-Elect. She is also a seasoned presenter, sharing her expertise on entrepreneurship and business education at numerous national, state, and local conferences. 

Cynthia holds a Specialist in Education and a Master of Education from the University of Georgia, as well as a Bachelor of Science in Education from Georgia State University. 

With her extensive experience, proven leadership, and unwavering dedication to education, Cynthia Greene continues to be a valuable asset to the educational community. 

Greene is one of five finalists for the 2025 national title. The national winner will be announced at the ACTE Awards Gala, an award presentation recognizing the best CTE educators in the country. The event will take place on December 4, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. The Awards Gala is sponsored by Express Employment Professionals, Goodheart-Willcox, The 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 Michigan State Director as National Award Finalist 

ALEXANDRIA, VA—Today, the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced Dr. Brian Pyles, State Director at Michigan Department of Education Office of Career and Technical Education in Lansing, Michigan, as the 2025 ACTE Region I Lifetime Achievement and Hall of Fame. This award recognizes the finest career and technical education (CTE) educators 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.  

Dr. Brian L. Pyles serves as the State Director for the Michigan Department of Education’s Office of Career and Technical Education (MDE-OCTE), where he provides visionary leadership for Michigan’s secondary and postsecondary career and technical education (CTE) programs. In this role, Dr. Pyles is dedicated to ensuring that all learners have access to equitable, high-quality, and rigorous academic instruction within the CTE system. 

Dr. Pyles collaborates closely with other MDE Office Directors, the MDE Leadership Team, and various state agencies to advance the key components of Michigan’s Top 10 Strategic Education Plan. At the national level, he is an active member of the CTE State Directors Association and Advance CTE, where he contributes valuable insights into policy implementation and the impact of national decisions on state-level education. 

With over 25 years of experience in the Michigan public school system, Dr. Pyles has held multiple roles, including Marketing Teacher, DECA Advisor, and Business Department Chair at Niles Senior High School, as well as Regional CTE Director in Shiawassee and Berrien Counties. His collaborative leadership was instrumental in developing the Berrien County Early Middle College and the Genesee County Career and Technical Education Early Middle College, both of which have expanded opportunities for students to pursue postsecondary education and career training. 

Dr. Pyles’ passion for CTE was ignited during his time as a student in the Agriscience Program at the Oakland Schools Technical Campus in Clarkston, Michigan. Throughout his career, he has remained a dedicated advocate for CTE, serving on various committees with the Michigan Department of Education and holding leadership positions, including President of the Michigan Association for Career and Technical Education (MiACTE) and the Michigan Marketing Educators. 

In addition to his leadership roles, Dr. Pyles has worked as an independent education consultant, developing web content for MiACTE and writing guidance for the Southern Regional Education Board on work-based learning and student career planning. 

Dr. Pyles holds a bachelor’s degree in business education from Eastern Michigan University and both an MA and Ph.D. in Education Leadership from Western Michigan University. His dissertation, “A Study of Career Preparation Activities Used in Michigan’s High Schools,” underscores his commitment to expanding CTE learning opportunities for all students. 

Pyles is one of five finalists for the 2025 national title. The national winner will be announced at the ACTE Awards Gala, an award presentation recognizing the best CTE educators in the country. The event will take place on December 4, at 7:00 p.m. The Awards Gala is sponsored by Express Employment Professionals, Goodheart-Willcox, The 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 California Job Development and Training Technician as National Award Finalist 

ALEXANDRIA, VA—Today, the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced Greg Friedman, Job Development and Training Technician, at Merced County Office of Education, in Merced, CA as the 2025 ACTE Region V Counseling and Career Development Professional. This award recognizes the finest career and technical education (CTE) 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.  

Greg Friedman works with the Merced County Office of Education as a Job Development and Training Technician. For the past three years, Greg’s commitment to providing comprehensive career guidance and preparation for adults enrolled in the Regional Occupational Program (ROP) throughout the county has been evident in his innovative approach to workforce development. Greg teaches essential skills and job-searching techniques through various workshops and webinars, equipping students with the tools they need to thrive in their careers. He emphasizes the importance of incorporating artificial intelligence into career exploration and readiness, ensuring students have the right capabilities to succeed in future opportunities.  

Greg works closely with his local partners, along with employers to provide support and opportunities to his adult population. He helps organize countywide annual hiring events for Adults with Disabilities, Veterans, Justice Involved and LGBTQ+ individuals (DiversAbility Hiring Event). He also partnered with local CTE training programs and was a contributing member with the Merced County Career & Technical Education Training and Hiring Event.  

By helping organize multiple county-wide career fairs over the last eight years and assisting in the creation of a data management/tracking system, Greg affirms each student receives personalized support and guidance. With a rich background in education and a diverse professional history, Greg’s expertise spans multiple roles. He previously worked with high school students in college and career preparation and held a pivotal role in the Special Education department overseeing ROP and managing multiple subsidized-pay grants. His twenty-three-year tenure in the full-service restaurant industry as a General Manager and Regional Kitchen Manager uniquely positions him to understand employer perspectives, bridging the gap between educational programs and business expectations. Greg’s proficiency in connecting with employers has been instrumental in securing internships and fostering collaborations between education and industry. His multifaceted background makes him an asset in workforce development, driven by his passion for empowering individuals on their career journeys 

Friedman is one of five finalists for the 2025 national title. The national winner will be announced at the ACTE Awards Gala, an award presentation recognizing the best CTE educators in the country. The event will take place on December 4, at 7:00 p.m. The Awards Gala is sponsored by Express Employment Professionals, Goodheart-Willcox, The 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 Texas Counselor as National Award Finalist 

ALEXANDRIA, VA—Today, the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced Brandi Williams, CTE Counselor/Coordinator at Calhoun County ISD in Port Lavaca, TX as the 2025 ACTE Region IV Counseling and Career Development Professional. This award recognizes the finest career and technical education (CTE) 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.  

Brandi Williams serves as the Career and Technical Education (CTE) Counselor at Calhoun High School, where she plays an integral role in student development, from professional growth and student recruitment to facilitating future career opportunities for graduates. Over the past eight years, Brandi has focused on creating course sequences aligned with state-approved programs of study, ensuring that students receive a robust CTE education that maximizes their chances of completing their programs. 

Brandi has worked tirelessly to build strong relationships with local industries and businesses, providing valuable training opportunities through Career Preparation classes and practicum experiences. To ensure the success of the Work-Based Learning (WBL) programs, she collaborates with teachers to establish clear policies and procedures, significantly reducing attrition rates. 

One of Brandi’s proudest achievements is establishing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the local community college, allowing students to earn articulated credits for specific CTE courses taken in high school. This initiative has opened doors for students who might not have considered higher education, showing them that college is not only possible but already within their reach. 

In addition, Brandi spearheaded the creation of the school’s first-ever College and Career Center, a welcoming space where students can explore their future with her guidance. She has also coordinated career exploration events, such as Manufacturing Day and Meet Your Future, where students interact with industry professionals and gain hands-on experience in various fields. 

Beyond campus, Brandi serves as the CTE representative on the local Partners in Education board, updating industry leaders on the district’s programs and fostering connections that benefit the community. Her work extends to the state level, where she has promoted CTE as a Texas OnCourse Leader Fellow and consulted with the Victoria Economic Development Group on training future employees for new industry opportunities. 

One of the most rewarding aspects of Brandi’s work is hosting the annual CTE Certification Celebration, where she recognizes the hard work of seniors and their achievements in earning industry-based certifications 

Williams is one of five finalists for the 2025 national title. The national winner will be announced at the ACTE Awards Gala, an award presentation recognizing the best CTE educators in the country. The event will take place on December 4, at 7:00 p.m. The Awards Gala is sponsored by Express Employment Professionals, Goodheart-Willcox, The 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 IOWA Counselor at  Cedar Rapids Community School District as National Award Finalist 

ALEXANDRIA, VA—Today, the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced Paul Hayes, K-12 School Counseling and Postsecondary Readiness Lead at Cedar Rapids Community School District in Cedar Rapids, IA as the 2025 ACTE Region III Counseling and Career Development Professional. This award recognizes the finest career and technical education (CTE) 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.  

Paul is a seasoned administrator with a proven track record of leadership in the education sector. His expertise spans K-12 education, Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS), staff development, transformational leadership, and strategic planning. Paul holds an administrative certification from Drake University and a Master of Arts in School Counseling from the University of Northern Iowa. 

In his current role, Paul collaborates with K-12 counselors, administrators, and district leaders to bring the district’s Profile of a Graduate to life. This framework aligns with Every Learner: Future Ready vision, ensuring that students are equipped with the skills and knowledge they need for success in an ever-changing world. 

Hayes is one of five finalists for the 2025 national title. The national winner will be announced at the ACTE Awards Gala, an award presentation recognizing the best CTE educators in the country. The event will take place on December 4, at 7:00 p.m. The Awards Gala is sponsored by Express Employment Professionals, Goodheart-Willcox, The 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 Alabama Career Coach at Pell City School System as National Award Finalist 

ALEXANDRIA, VA—Today, the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced Shelley Kaler, Career Coach at Pell City School System in Pell City, AL as the 2025 ACTE Region II Counseling and Career Development Professional. This award recognizes the finest career and technical education (CTE) 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.  

Shelley Kaler discovered her passion for education over two decades ago while working as a student assistant at Jacksonville State University. During her time in the Office of the Associate Vice President of Academic Affairs, she developed a deep commitment to serving students. This passion grew as she transitioned to the Office of Admissions, where she spent over ten years recruiting students across Alabama, Tennessee, Georgia, Florida, and Mississippi. 

In 2016, Shelley’s dedication to student success led her to a new role as a career counselor. She became the Career Coach for Pell City High School, as well as the Alabama School for the Blind and the Alabama School for the Deaf. Today, she focuses exclusively on Pell City Schools, ensuring that students have access to valuable opportunities like field trips, campus tours, guest speakers from business and industry, mentorships, and networking events. Among her most significant contributions are organizing mock interviews for all juniors and seniors, coordinating military performance labs, and hosting job fairs. 

In her role, Shelley has recently partnered with Enhabit Hospice to develop a volunteer program for her HOSA students. Recognizing that many of her students need encouragement to step outside of their comfort zone when encountering new opportunities, she has also become a volunteer with Enhabit Hospice. Throughout the week, Shelley and her students work on various administrative tasks, such as making patient check-in calls. On weekends, Shelley has the opportunity to visit patients in rehab facilities, providing care and comfort. This experience has allowed her HOSA students to flourish in many areas, helping them build critical skills for their future careers in healthcare. 

Shelley’s students affectionately refer to her as the “School Mom,” a title she holds dear. Beyond her professional role, she is a devoted member of Rushing Springs Missionary Baptist Church in Talladega County, Alabama. There, she serves on multiple committees, including the Usher Board, Kitchen Committee, Food Ministry Team, Pastoral Care Committee, and Public Relations Committee, and she also serves as the Church Custodian. 

Shelley lives in Lincoln with her husband of eighteen years. She inspires her students with the motto, “Today I will do what others WON’T so that tomorrow I can do what others CAN’T,” and often shares one of her favorite quotes by Benjamin Franklin: “Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn.” 

Kaler is one of five finalists for the 2025 national title. The national winner will be announced at the ACTE Awards Gala, an award presentation recognizing the best CTE educators in the country. The event will take place on December 4, at 7:00 p.m. The Awards Gala is sponsored by Express Employment Professionals, Goodheart-Willcox, The 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 Michigan Counselor at Genesee Career Institute as National Award Finalist 

ALEXANDRIA, VA—Today, the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced Vanita Wilson, Counselor at Genesee Career Institute in Flint, Michigan, as the 2025 ACTE Region I Counseling and Career Development Professional. This award recognizes the finest career and technical education (CTE) 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.  

Vanita Wilson brings over 25 years of dedicated counseling experience to her role as a Guidance Counselor at Genesee Career Institute (GCI) in Flint, MI, where she supports the success of over 1,900 students. Renowned for her holistic approach, Vanita builds meaningful relationships with students, parents, and the broader community, creating a nurturing environment that empowers students to reach their full potential. Her commitment to the GCI community has made her an invaluable asset, known for implementing strategies that foster both educational achievement and personal growth.  

Vanita’s academic journey reflects her dedication to social advocacy and educational excellence. She earned a bachelor’s degree in social work from the University of Michigan-Flint and a master’s degree in Guidance and Counseling from Spring Arbor University. Her career highlights include running a day treatment program for adjudicated youth and managing the Genesee Go program, which provided scholarships to deserving students. At GCI, Vanita has pioneered initiatives that expanded the curriculum, introducing programs like HVAC and Refrigeration, and earning recognition as the ACTE Michigan School Counselor of the Year.  

In 2023, Vanita was honored with the Children’s Champion Caring Adult Award, acknowledging her profound impact on countless young lives. She also initiated a monthly educational meeting for Genesee Area School Counselors, fostering collaboration and continuous learning among her peers. Her personal philosophy, grounded in the belief that education is a transformative tool, guides her commitment to treating each student as a unique individual. Vanita’s leadership and dedication to social-emotional learning have set a benchmark for excellence, inspiring both students and colleagues alike. 

Wilson is one of five finalists for the 2025 national title. The national winner will be announced at the ACTE Awards Gala, an award presentation recognizing the best CTE educators in the country. The event will take place on December 4, at 7:00 p.m. The Awards Gala is sponsored by Express Employment Professionals, Goodheart-Willcox, The 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.