Category: Press Releases

ACTE Announces Oklahoma Director of Instructional Services at Northeast Tech as the 2025 National Winner 

 ALEXANDRIA, VA—Today, the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced April Blackwell, Director of Instructional Services at Northeast Tech in Pryor, OK, as the 2025 ACTE Teacher Educator of the Year. 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.  

April Blackwell, an integral member of the Northeast Tech team since 2011, has been recognized nationally for her exceptional contributions to Career and Technical Education (CTE). As the district’s first-ever Instructional Services Director, a role she has held since 2019, April has built the department from the ground up, establishing a robust support system that now includes instructional coordinators on each campus to serve the entire district effectively. 

With a career spanning over a decade in CTE, April’s diverse experiences as a visual communications instructor, technology trainer, and business development consultant have provided her with a comprehensive understanding of all facets of CTE. Her leadership is characterized by her unwavering dedication to Northeast Tech’s mission of “Preparing Individuals for Successful Careers.” She embodies this mission daily, fostering a culture of growth and leadership development for her staff, instructors, and students alike. 

April’s approach to leadership is driven by her servant’s heart and passion for lifelong learning. She leads with vision, empathy, and an unrelenting focus on excellence, constantly modeling the teaching cycle through preparation, training, assessment, reflection, and adjustment. 

This prestigious national recognition celebrates April’s extraordinary impact on CTE, her district, and the broader community. Her commitment to empowering others and advancing the CTE advantage continues to inspire all those fortunate enough to work with her. 

Blackwell was one of four finalists for the 2025 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 4, at ACTE’s CareerTech VISION 2024. The Awards Gala was sponsored by Express Employment Professionals, Goodheart-Willcox, The U.S. Army, McGraw Hill and Stratasys. For more information about the ACTE Excellence Awards, visit our webpage.  

### 

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 the 2025 National Award Winner 

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 recipient of the 2025 National ACTE Lifetime Achievement Award. 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.  The Lifetime Achievement Award is sponsored by McGraw Hill. 

With a career spanning over 35 years, Cindy Stover has been recognized as the National Lifetime Achievement Award winner for her exceptional dedication and contributions to Career and Technical Education (CTE). Cindy’s unwavering commitment to advancing the field of CTE and her impactful leadership have left an enduring legacy on both the state and national levels. 

Throughout her distinguished career, Cindy has served in numerous leadership roles, including Executive Director/Consultant for the Illinois Association for Career and Technical Education (IACTE), a member of the ACTE Board of Directors, ACTE Region III President, ACTE Fellowship Program Coordinator, and Past President of IACTE. Her dedication to mentorship and collaboration has shaped the careers of countless colleagues, fostering a new generation of CTE leaders. 

Cindy is widely recognized for her innovative thinking and ability to drive meaningful change. From advocating for funding with legislators to leading workshops and panels, her work has consistently emphasized the critical role of CTE in education and economic development. Her contributions have not only strengthened CTE programs in Illinois but have also served as exemplary models across the nation. 

As a passionate advocate and visionary leader, Cindy’s impact extends beyond her professional achievements. She has embraced innovation, spearheading transformative programs and initiatives that have set a high standard for excellence in CTE. Her influence, characterized by her leadership, risk-taking, and dedication to inspiring others, will continue to shape the future of the field for years to come. 

This national recognition celebrates Cindy’s lifetime of achievements and her extraordinary contributions to CTE. Her legacy is one of inspiration, progress, and a steadfast commitment to advancing opportunities for students, educators, and the broader community. 

Stover was one of five finalists for the 2025 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 4, at ACTE’s CareerTech VISION 2024. The Awards Gala was sponsored by Express Employment Professionals, Goodheart-Willcox, The U.S. Army, McGraw Hill and Stratasys. For more information about the ACTE Excellence Awards, visit our webpage.  

### 

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 Arizona Healthcare Program Manager, and New Associate Dean of Academics, as National Award Winner 

ALEXANDRIA, VA—Today, the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced   Jennifer Kline, Associate Dean of Academics at Erie County Community College, as the 2025 ACTE Region V Postsecondary Professional of the Year. 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 

Jennifer Kline, M.Ed., a dedicated leader in higher education and Career and Technical Education (CTE), has been named the National Postsecondary Professional of the Year. With over 26 years of experience in CTE, Jennifer’s career reflects a remarkable blend of expertise, innovation, and a commitment to student success. 

Recently appointed as the Associate Dean of Academics at Erie County Community College in Pennsylvania (Region I), Jennifer previously served as the Healthcare Program Manager for GateWay Community College in Phoenix, Arizona (Region V). Her diverse professional background includes roles as a flight paramedic, firefighter, workforce and business development manager, and a decade of service in higher education as both an educator and administrator. 

Jennifer is a passionate advocate for equitable access to high-quality education, inspired by her own journey as a first-generation college student. She is dedicated to identifying and removing barriers to education, creating alternative pathways to success, and minimizing student loan debt. Her leadership has also been instrumental in bridging gaps between education and employment, fostering opportunities for credentialing, and cultivating a culture of innovation, equity, diversity, and belonging for students, faculty, and staff. 

A committed lifelong learner, Jennifer is pursuing a doctoral degree in Workforce and Organizational Development, with an emphasis on Career and Technical Education. She has also completed the ACTE Next Level Fellowship program, focusing on college initiatives, advocacy, and funding opportunities, and is currently part of the ACTE National Leadership Fellowship’s Experienced Leader cohort. Her achievements have earned her the ACTEAZ and ACTE Region V Postsecondary Educator of the Year awards. 

Jennifer’s leadership, vision, and unwavering commitment to the CTE community have made a profound impact. This national recognition celebrates her exceptional career and her dedication to fostering student success, building equitable educational pathways, and advancing the future of Career and Technical Education. 

Kline was one of five finalists for the 2025 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 4, at ACTE’s CareerTech VISION 2024. The Awards Gala was sponsored by Express Employment Professionals, Goodheart-Willcox, The U.S. Army, McGraw Hill and Stratasys. For more information about the ACTE Excellence Awards, visit our webpage.  

###  

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 Business Teacher as 2025 National Winner 

ALEXANDRIA, VA – Today, the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced  Nickolas Lebo, Business Teacher at Austin ISD in Austin, TX as the 2025 National ACTE Teacher of the Year. 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.  

Nickolas Lebo, a dedicated educator and leader in Career and Technical Education (CTE), has been named the National Teacher of the Year for his exceptional contributions to Austin Independent School District (AISD) and the broader CTE community. 

A graduate of the University of Texas in Austin, where he earned both a bachelor’s degree in finance and a master’s degree in education in Sport Management, Nick has spent the last 14 years teaching and coaching in AISD. He currently serves as the CTE Department Chair, Business Teacher, and Head Golf Coach at Austin High School, where his leadership has significantly advanced CTE programming. 

Under Nick’s guidance, Austin High has launched innovative practicum courses in Entrepreneurship, Culinary Arts, Engineering, IT, and Education. He coordinates all internship programs and has established partnerships with over 100 local companies, ensuring students gain real-world experience that prepares them for post-graduation success. 

Nick’s commitment to professional growth is reflected in his pursuit of becoming AISD’s first CTE National Board-Certified Teacher through the district’s Leadership Pathways program. Outside the classroom, he inspires students through his sponsorship of Business Professionals of America, Rock the Street Wall Street, and Fellowship of Christian Athletes. 

Believing that education is his calling, Nick strives to prepare students not only for their careers but also for meaningful lives at home and as future community leaders. His dedication to fostering student growth, leadership, and success exemplifies the CTE advantage. 

This prestigious national honor celebrates Nick’s outstanding achievements, leadership, and unwavering commitment to his students, colleagues, and the field of Career and Technical Education. His work continues to inspire and elevate the next generation of leaders. 

Lebo was one of five finalists for the 2025 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 4, at ACTE’s CareerTech VISION 2024. The Awards Gala was sponsored by Express Employment Professionals, Goodheart-Willcox, The U.S. Army, McGraw Hill and Stratasys. For more information about the ACTE Excellence Awards, visit our webpage.  

### 

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 Executive Director of Career Technical & Agricultural Education as 2025 National Award Winner 

ALEXANDRIA, VA—Today, the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced Rhonda Samples, Executive Director, Career Technical & Agricultural Education at Hall County Schools in Gainesville, GA as the 2025 ACTE National Administrator of the Year. This award recognizes administrative CTE professionals at the school, district, county, state, or federal level who have demonstrated leadership in ensuring teacher and student success and have made significant contributions toward innovative, unique, and effective career and technical education programs. The Administrator of the Year Award is sponsored by Goodheart-Willcox.  

Rhonda Samples, a visionary leader and tireless advocate for Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education (CTAE), has been named the National Administrator of the Year. With over four decades of dedicated service to the Hall County School District and the broader CTE community, Rhonda’s work has profoundly impacted students, educators, and industry partners alike. 

As the former CEO of Lanier College Career Academy and the current Executive Director of CTAE for Hall County, Rhonda has championed career pathways, work-based learning opportunities, and student organizations that empower middle and high school students. Her collaborative efforts with the Georgia Department of Education, the Hall County Chamber of Commerce, local colleges, businesses, and community organizations have strengthened the bridge between education and the workforce, ensuring that students are well-prepared for future success. 

Rhonda’s career began as a Marketing Education teacher, and her dedication to professional growth has led her to earn an Ed.S. in Educational Leadership and Marketing, a master’s degree in marketing education, and a Bachelor of Science in Fashion Merchandising. Her leadership has been recognized with numerous prestigious awards, including the Gallup Outstanding National Marketing Education Educator Award, Georgia Work-Based Learning Administrator of the Year, and Georgia TIEGA Administrator of the Year. She has also received special honors such as the Community Service Award and the Pioneer in Education award for her lasting contributions. 

A sought-after speaker and workshop facilitator, Rhonda continually shares her expertise and best practices to inspire and elevate the education sector. Her passion, vision, and unwavering commitment to excellence in CTAE have transformed countless lives and set a high standard for educational leadership. 

This national recognition celebrates Rhonda’s remarkable career, her outstanding achievements, and her lasting impact on the field of Career and Technical Education. Her legacy of innovation, advocacy, and empowerment continues to shape the future of education. 

Samples was one of five finalists for the 2025 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 4, at ACTE’s CareerTech VISION 2024. The Awards Gala was sponsored by Express Employment Professionals, Goodheart-Willcox, The U.S. Army, McGraw Hill and Stratasys. For more information about the ACTE Excellence Awards, visit our webpage.  

### 

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 Winner 

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 National ACTE Counseling and Career Development Professional Award winner. This award recognizes school counselors and career development professionals who have demonstrated commitment to connecting students with opportunities for success, shown innovation in career exploration and development, and have advocated for CTE as a viable option for all students. The Counseling and Career Development Professional Award is sponsored by The U.S. Army.  

Shelley Kaler, a dedicated educator with over two decades of service to students, has been named the national winner of the Counseling and Career Development Professional Award. Her journey in education began at Jacksonville State University, where she discovered her passion for helping students succeed while working as a student assistant in the Office of the Associate Vice President of Academic Affairs. Her commitment deepened during her tenure in the Office of Admissions, where she spent more than ten years recruiting students across the southeastern United States. 

In 2016, Shelley transitioned to a new role as a career counselor, becoming the Career Coach for Pell City High School, the Alabama School for the Blind, and the Alabama School for the Deaf. Today, she focuses exclusively on Pell City Schools, where she connects students with invaluable opportunities such as field trips, campus tours, guest speakers, mentorships, and networking events. Among her many initiatives are mock interviews for juniors and seniors, military performance labs, and job fairs—all designed to prepare students for success in their future careers. 

Shelley’s passion for healthcare career pathways led her to partner with Enhabit Hospice to create a volunteer program for her HOSA students. Her involvement goes beyond coordination—she volunteers alongside her students, assisting with administrative tasks during the week and visiting patients on weekends. This hands-on experience has been transformative for her students, helping them build critical skills and confidence as they prepare for healthcare careers. 

Known affectionately by her students as the “School Mom,” Shelley is a steadfast advocate for stepping outside one’s comfort zone to embrace new opportunities. Her dedication extends to her church, Rushing Springs Missionary Baptist Church in Talladega County, Alabama, where she serves on several committees and as the Church Custodian. 

Shelley resides in Lincoln with her husband of 18 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 she often shares her favorite Benjamin Franklin quote: “Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn.” 

Through her tireless efforts, Shelley Kaler has made a lasting impact on countless students, empowering them to achieve their fullest potential and demonstrating the transformative power of Career and Technical Education. 

Kaler was one of five finalists for the 2025 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 4, at ACTE’s CareerTech VISION 2024. The Awards Gala was sponsored by Express Employment Professionals, Goodheart-Willcox, The U.S. Army, McGraw Hill and Stratasys. For more information about the ACTE Excellence Awards, visit our webpage.  

### 

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 Wyoming Industrial Technology Teacher as National Award Winner 

 ALEXANDRIA, VA—Today, the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced  Troy Reichert, Industrial Technology Teacher, Guernsey-Sunrise Public School, as the recipient of the 2025 National ACTE Carl Perkins Community Service Award. This award recognizes individuals who have used CTE to make a significant impact on their community and demonstrated leadership in programs and activities that promote student involvement in community service.  

Troy Reichert, a dedicated Industrial Technology teacher with 27 years of experience, has been named the recipient of the prestigious Carl Perkins Community Service Award. Teaching at Guernsey-Sunrise Public School, Troy exemplifies the values of leadership, service, and community engagement through his innovative approach to education and his unwavering commitment to helping others. 

Believing in the power of learning beyond the classroom, Troy established a summer skilled trades camp in Sunrise, Wyoming. This program brings boys and girls from across the nation to work on projects such as restoring the oldest YMCA building in the state. Additionally, his students are undertaking a full remodel of the VFW Post 4471 building in Guernsey, enhancing their hands-on skills while making a meaningful impact on the community. 

Troy’s dedication to his students and his community has earned him numerous accolades, including the Wyoming VFW Teacher of the Year (ranked 4th nationally), Harbor Freight Tools for Schools Teacher Excellence national winner, and the Congressional Medal of Honor Society’s Excellence in Character Education Award. These honors underscore his exceptional ability to combine teaching with community service, inspiring his students to use their skills to make a difference. 

Through his efforts, Troy Reichert not only enriches the lives of his students but also strengthens the community, embodying the spirit of the Carl Perkins Community Service Award. His work serves as a powerful example of how Career and Technical Education can foster both personal growth and civic responsibility. 

Reichert was one of four finalists for the 2025 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 4, at ACTE’s CareerTech VISION 2024. The Awards Gala was sponsored by Express Employment Professionals, Goodheart-Willcox, The U.S. Army, McGraw Hill and Stratasys. For more information about the ACTE Excellence Awards, visit our webpage.  

### 

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 Oklahoma Teacher as National Award Winner 

 ALEXANDRIA, VA—Today, the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced Wyatt Gerth, Creative Marketing Communications Instructor at Tri County Tech as the 2025 National ACTE New Teacher of the Year. 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.  

Wyatt Gerth, known affectionately as “Mr. G” by his students, has been recognized as the National New Teacher of the Year for his outstanding contributions to Career and Technical Education (CTE). Beginning his teaching journey at Tri County Tech in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, in the fall of 2019, Wyatt embraced an opportunity to redefine the school’s Graphics Communication program after the retirement of its long-time instructor. 

Leveraging his innovative spirit and vision, Wyatt transformed the program into Creative Marketing Communications, an initiative that has become a cornerstone of Tri County Tech’s curriculum. His ability to blend tradition with innovation has not only enhanced student engagement but also equipped his learners with the skills necessary to excel in a rapidly evolving marketplace. 

Wyatt’s influence extends well beyond the classroom. He is an active and dedicated member of the local community, serving on multiple boards and committees. He shares his expertise in business and marketing by offering training to small businesses, educators, and tribal organizations, showcasing his commitment to uplifting others and fostering community growth. 

Although early in his teaching career, Wyatt’s dedication to continuous improvement and his passion for making a difference have already left an indelible mark. His students thrive under his guidance, and his work exemplifies the transformative power of CTE. 

This national recognition highlights Wyatt Gerth’s exceptional innovation, leadership, and dedication, celebrating his remarkable contributions to education and his unwavering commitment to preparing students for future success. 

Gerth was one of five finalists for the 2025 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 4, at ACTE’s CareerTech VISION 2024. The Awards Gala was sponsored by Express Employment Professionals, Goodheart-Willcox, The U.S. Army, McGraw Hill and Stratasys. For more information about the ACTE Excellence Awards, visit our webpage.  

### 

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 2025 National Award Finalists 

ALEXANDRIA, VA — Today, the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced its 2025 national finalists from its five regions in eight different award categories. Finalists were announced for Teacher of the Year, Postsecondary Professional of the Year, Administrator of the Year, New Teacher of the Year, Teacher Educator of the Year, Counseling and Career Development Professional Award, Lifetime Achievement Award and Carl Perkins Community Service Award. 

The national winners will be announced at the ACTE Awards Gala, an award presentation recognizing the best CTE educators in the country. The event will be held on December 4, 2024 at 7:00pm. The Awards Gala is sponsored by Express Employment Professionals, Goodheart-Wilcox, the Army and Stratasys. For more information about the ACTE Excellence Awards, visit our webpage.  

Teacher of the Year Finalists 

• Jared Diephouse – Traverse City, MI – Region I 

• Jason Van Nus – Valdosta, GA – Region II 

• Chris Edgar – Camdenton, MO – Region III 

• Nickolas Lebo – Austin, TX – Region IV 

• Dave Dein – Patterson, CA – Region V 

Postsecondary Professional of the Year Finalists 

• Kenneth Flowers – Benton Harbor, MI – Region I 

• Cheronie Blunt – Warner Robins, GA – Region II 

• Thomas Brown – North Mankato, MN – Region III 

• Jona Kay Squires – Wayne, OK – Region IV 

• Jennifer Kline – Phoenix, AZ – Region V 

Administrator of the Year Finalists 

• Lucas Schrauben – Holt, MI – Region I 

• Rhonda Samples – Gainesville, GA – Region II 

• Keith Olander – Staples, MN – Region III 

• Brittney Williams – Baton Rouge, LA – Region IV 

• Dave Gardner – Saint George, UT – Region V 

New Teacher of the Year Finalists 

• Brielle Haupt – Brighton, MI – Region I 

• Stephen Bergey – Woodstock, GA – Region II 

• Emily Daniel – Nevada, MO – Region III 

• Wyatt Gerth – Bartlesville, OK – Region IV 

• Sarah Hubel – Stromsburg, NE – Region V 

Teacher Educator of the Year Finalists 

• Roger Hill – Athens, GA – Region II 

• Krystle Gremaud – Warrensburg, MO – Region III 

• April Blackwell – Afton, OK – Region IV 

• Scott Caldwell – Washoe County, NV – Region V 

Counseling and Career Development Professional Finalists 

• Vanita Wilson – Flint, MI – Region I 

• Shelley Kaler – Pell City, AL – Region II 

• Paul Hayes – Cedar Rapids, IA – Region III 

• Brandi Williams – Port Lavaca, TX – Region IV 

• Greg Friedman – Merced, CA – Region V 

Lifetime Achievement Award Finalists 

• Brian Pyles – Lansing, MI – Region I 

• Cynthia Greene – Marietta, GA – Region II 

• Cindy Stover – Lincoln, IL – Region III 

• Mary Smith – Manila, AK – Region IV 

• Melissa Scott – Carson City, NV – Region V 

Carl D. Perkins Community Service Award Finalists 

• Shannon Roberts – Maysville, KY – Region II 

• Regina Birch – Alton, IL – Region III 

• Patricia Downing – Grants, NM – Region IV 

• Troy Reichart – Guernsey, WY – Region V