ACTE Announces Virginia Agriculture Science Teacher as National Award Finalist
ALEXANDRIA, VA—Today, the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced Matthew Nanny, Agriculture Science Teacher Rappahannock High School in Warsaw, VA as the 2026 ACTE Region II Teacher of the Year. 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.
Although Matthew Nanny did not experience the full range of opportunities FFA offers as a student, the experiences he did have left a lasting impact. “I saw firsthand how FFA builds leadership, responsibility, and hands-on skills that go far beyond the classroom,” Nanny shared. When the opportunity arose to reestablish a dormant FFA chapter, it felt like the perfect way to give back.
Since then, Nanny has seen the transformative power of agricultural education, helping students build confidence, grow as leaders, and achieve impressive goals such as state championships and national recognition. “The chance to provide that life-changing impact for my students drives me to be an agricultural educator every day,” he said.
Under his leadership, the program has expanded through strong partnerships with local businesses, organizations, and policymakers. Notable collaborations include W.E. Kellum Seafood, which supports aquaculture education and helps fund student participation in FFA events, and Healthy Harvest Fresh, where students gain hands-on experience with aquaponics and sustainable agriculture. The program also works closely with Virginia State Delegate Hillary Pugh Kent to strengthen advocacy for FFA and agricultural education.
Nanny has also built partnerships with organizations such as James River Equipment, Farm Bureau, Tractor Supply, and Nutrient Ag Solutions, among others. Together, they are planning a county-wide Agriculture Expo during FFA Week to highlight the industry’s importance and connect with the community.
Recently, Nanny completed a master’s degree in educational leadership and policy studies at Virginia Tech, further strengthening his ability to lead both in the classroom and beyond. With a philosophy that leadership is about action, not titles, he continues to inspire and guide the next generation of agricultural leaders.
Nanny is one of five finalists for the 2026 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 9, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. The Awards Gala is sponsored by 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.
