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.
