Spring 2026 VACTE Award Recipients

  • Kathryn Fallen

    University of Virginia

    VACTE Student Success Champion Award

    Kathryn exemplifies the spirit of the Student Success Champion Award through her unwavering commitment to supporting future educators. As an Academic Program Officer, she provides personalized guidance, mentorship, and innovative advising to hundreds of undergraduate, graduate, and nontraditional students, helping them balance academic, professional, and personal responsibilities. Drawing on her extensive K–12 experience, Kathryn builds meaningful connections with learners, fosters student confidence and persistence, and creates pathways to success through responsive support and creative solutions. Her work as an advisor, instructor, and school partnership collaborator has strengthened educator preparation programs, improved student engagement and retention, and ensured that aspiring teachers feel supported every step of their journey.

  • Ashley Nemo

    Virginia Commonwealth University

    VACTE Outstanding Student in a Virginia Advanced Preparation Program Award

    Ashley Nemo has consistently demonstrated excellence throughout her participation in the Post-Master’s Certificate internship and coursework. She is a natural leader, contributing insightful and original perspectives during class discussions. Her Action Research Project initially focused on developing a site-based mentorship program for new teachers at her school. The quality and professionalism of her proposal led division leaders to request its expansion across all K–12 schools in the district. Ashley was subsequently tasked with delivering professional development to all school administrators in August to support the district-wide implementation of the program. She successfully completed this work while transitioning into a new role as an instructional coach and relocating to a different school within the division. Ashley exemplifies the qualities of a future school leader-visionary, dedicated, and highly effective.

  • Taylor Brooke

    Christopher Newport University

    VACTE Outstanding Student in a Virginia Initial Licensure Program Award

    Taylor Brooke is an outstanding teacher candidate whose academic excellence, leadership, and dedication to students distinguish her as a future leader in education. A high-achieving graduate student in Elementary Education, she combines professionalism, energy, and a deep belief in every child’s potential with extensive experience as a substitute teacher, tutor, paraprofessional, and mentor. Inspired by her own educational journey and the teachers who supported her, Taylor is passionate about creating inclusive, supportive classrooms where young learners build confidence, resilience, and a love of learning. Through her service, advocacy, and commitment to continuous growth, she exemplifies the qualities of an exceptional educator and a powerful advocate for children.

  • Carlisah Benbow

    Old Dominion University

    VACTE Outstanding Student in a Virginia Initial Licensure Program Award

    Carlisah Benbow is an exceptional future educator whose passion for teaching, student-centered approach, and commitment to leadership set her apart. She views teachers as guides who build trust, support growth, and help students develop confidence and lifelong skills. In both her coursework and practicum experiences, Carlisah has demonstrated a deep commitment to engaging diverse learners and connecting instruction to students’ lives. Beyond the classroom, she revitalized Old Dominion University’s Student Virginia Education Association, creating meaningful professional development and networking opportunities for aspiring and practicing educators. Inspired by a lifelong passion for teaching, Carlisah combines strong preparation, reflective practice, and a heart for service with aspirations to grow into educational leadership roles that support both students and fellow educators.

  • Kendyl Miller

    University of Mary Washington

    VACTE Outstanding Student in a Virginia Initial Licensure Program Award

    Kendyl is an exceptional future educator whose dedication to student success, commitment to continuous growth, and skillful teaching practice set her apart. She creates inclusive, engaging learning environments where high expectations are paired with compassion, helping students think critically, take academic risks, and build confidence as independent learners. Through strong preparation, extensive classroom experience, and meaningful relationships with students, Kendyl has developed a teaching philosophy centered on purposeful instruction, genuine support, and lasting impact. She views teaching as more than delivering content. It is about being a mentor, leader, and champion who empowers every student to reach their fullest potential.

  • Michael Gilbert

    Virginia Wesleyan University

    VACTE Outstanding Student in a Virginia Initial Licensure Program Award

    Michael exemplifies the intellect, professionalism, and compassion we seek in future Virginia educators. A dedicated Noyce Scholar, he inspires students through his positive presence, strong teaching practice, and commitment to meaningful learning experiences. Guided by the belief that students protect what they learn to value, Michael aspires to help young people experience the wonder of the natural world firsthand while fostering the critical thinking and scientific inquiry skills that empower all learners to succeed.

  • Lancer for a Day

    Longwood & Prince Edward Elementary

    VACTE School-University Partnership Project Award

    "Fostering Civic Engagement through Collaboration: A Model Partnership Between Higher Education and a Rural Elementary School (Lancer for a Day)"

    Lancer for a Day (LFAD) is a long‑standing partnership between Longwood University and Prince Edward County Elementary School that brings 4th graders to campus to experience college for a day. A joint planning team from both institutions co‑plans, co‑delivers, and co‑assesses the event, ensuring it grows each year. Now in its 8th year, LFAD promotes student well‑being, sparks joy, and helps children envision an attainable future through authentic college experiences. LU preservice teachers gain meaningful, standards‑aligned field experiences, while PEES students explore new possibilities, build confidence, and feel like valued members of the LU community.

  • Dr. Ellen Drogin Rodgers

    George Mason University

    VACTE Friend of Education Award

    Dr. Ellen Drogin Rodgers was honored with the Friend of Education Award in recognition of her exceptional contributions and steadfast commitment to advancing VACTE’s mission. Her dedication has had a lasting impact on the organization and the educator preparation community across Virginia. 

  • Dr. Peter Kelly

    University of Mary Washington

    VACTE Service Award

    The VACTE Board recognized Dr. Peter Kelly with a VACTE Service Award, celebrating his meaningful service and leadership, particularly in his work with Deans and Directors. His efforts have helped strengthen collaboration and engagement across the network. 

  • Dr. William J. McConnell

    Virginia Wesleyan University

    VACTE Faculty or Staff Impact Award

    Dr. McConnell inspired students through his co-leadership of a summer internship centered on the Meaningful Watershed Educational Experience (MWEE) framework. By emphasizing local environmental connections and learner-centered approaches, he helped students discover the biological wonders of their own communities while fostering meaningful, hands-on learning experiences. His commitment to place-based education encourages students to engage deeply with the natural world and develop a lasting appreciation for environmental stewardship.

  • Dr. Starrbe Bryant

    Old Dominion University

    VACTE Faculty or Staff Impact Award

    Dr. Starrbe has made a lasting impact on future educators through her exceptional mentorship, leadership, and dedication to student success. As faculty advisor for the Student Virginia Education Association (SVEA), she modeled strong, steady leadership while helping students grow both personally and professionally. She is known for recognizing potential in others, encouraging students to take on leadership roles, and providing the support and confidence they need to succeed. In the classroom, she creates a supportive, engaging learning environment and shares practical strategies and real-world experiences that prepare future teachers for success. Through her unwavering belief in her students, commitment to educational leadership, and ability to inspire others to reach beyond their comfort zones, Dr. Starrbe has become a trusted mentor, role model, and champion for the next generation of educators.

  • Linda Powell

    Christopher Newport University

    VACTE Faculty or Staff Impact Award

    Professor Powell has inspired future educators through her unwavering support, deep commitment to students, and extensive classroom experience. Known for building meaningful relationships with her students, she combines practical expertise with encouragement and honesty, preparing aspiring teachers for both the rewards and challenges of the profession. Her guidance in areas such as professionalism, classroom management, and student-centered teaching helps future educators develop confidence and adaptability. Through her positive spirit, realistic perspective, and willingness to offer advice and support, Professor Powell serves as a trusted mentor and role model for the next generation of teachers.

  • Dr. Jennifer Walker

    University of Mary Washington

    VACTE Faculty or Staff Impact Award

    Dr. Walker is a dedicated educator and mentor whose compassion, guidance, and unwavering support have left a lasting impact on her students. Through her teaching and mentorship, she helps aspiring educators navigate both academic and personal challenges, providing encouragement, practical strategies, and a genuine sense of belonging. Students describe her as someone who makes them feel seen, valued, and capable, fostering confidence during pivotal moments in their development. Her commitment to treating every individual with dignity, coupled with her ability to connect personally with those she serves, exemplifies the profound influence of an exceptional teacher and mentor.

Selection Process

Interested in serving as a reviewer for the VACTE Awards Cycle?

We are seeking volunteers to review award nomination submissions between November and January provided through the forms linked in the Deadlines section. If you are interested in participating, please indicate your interest below. Your support helps recognize and celebrate excellence in career and technical education across Virginia. Thank you for considering this opportunity! If you are interested in serving on the awards review committee, please complete the interest form linked below.

  • Outstanding Student Awards and Faculty/Staff Impact Award

    • Those students selected for the Outstanding Student in a Virginia Initial Licensure Program Award are asked to name one faculty or staff member who has had a significant impact on their education and preparation by November 15. These faculty are then honored with the Faculty or Staff Impact Award.

  • All Other Awards

    • The VACTE President, Executive Director, and Awards Committee Chair will convene a committee to review applications. 

Deadlines

Due November 1, 2026:

Due November 15, 2026:

  • Students nominated for the Outstanding Student awards must complete their faculty/staff nominee forms (provided separately) for the VACTE Faculty or Staff Impact Award.

For more information about any of the aforementioned awards, please review the descriptions in the next section.

Awards Committee Interest Form

VACTE Award Descriptions

VACTE is proud to recognize outstanding students, educators, and partners whose contributions exemplify excellence in educator preparation and student success across Virginia. These awards celebrate the innovation, commitment, and impact demonstrated throughout our member institutions. We congratulate all nominees and recipients for their dedication to strengthening educator preparation across the Commonwealth and making a lasting difference in schools, communities, and the lives of students.

Please reach out to awards committee co-chairs Rebecca John and Courtney Sullivan if you have any further questions. 

  • The VACTE Outstanding Student in a Virginia Initial Licensure Program Award recognizes an outstanding student in an initial licensure preparation program.

    Each four-year accredited institution of higher education in Virginia may nominate one exceptional student pursuing an initial teaching license. 

    Your institution may establish its own procedures for identifying the nominee, however, all nominees must meet the following criteria:     

    1. Nominee must be a student fully admitted to and enrolled in a teacher education program leading to initial licensure. Both undergraduate and graduates students are eligible.

    2. Nominee must have current or previous experience working with children or young adults.

    3. Nominee must have demonstrated a high level of scholarship in previous studies (i.e., minimum 3.25 GPA).

    4. Nominee must be endorsed by the Dean or administrator of the teacher education unit. 


    By submission, the Dean or Director of the teacher education unit (or designee) endorses this nomination. 

  • The VACTE Outstanding Student in a Virginia Advanced Preparation Program Award recognizes an outstanding student in an advanced preparation program.

    Each four-year accredited institution of higher education in Virginia may nominate one exceptional student pursuing an Advanced Preparation program of study. 

    Your institution may establish its own procedures for identifying the nominee, however, all nominees must meet the following criteria:     

    1. Nominee must be fully admitted to and enrolled in a graduate education program leading to an endorsement in advanced studies, including but not limited to: Reading Specialist, Math Specialist, School Counseling, School Psychology, Administration and Supervision.

    2. Nominee must have demonstrated a high level of scholarship in their graduate studies (i.e., minimum 3.5 GPA).  

    By submission, the Dean or Director of the teacher education unit (or designee) endorses this nomination. 

  • This award recognizes an outstanding faculty or staff member who significantly impacted student education and preparation for the recipients of the Outstanding Student in a Virginia Initial Licensure Program Award.

    Award: Each award will include a certificate and a complementary spring conference registration.

  • The VACTE Student Success Champion Award honors an outstanding educator preparation or academic support professional who has demonstrated exceptional commitment to advancing student success through non-classroom initiatives. The recipient plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of educators by providing clinical guidance, advisory support, and innovative solutions that enhance the learning experience.

    Criteria for Recognition:

    1. Impact on Students: Evidence of measurable improvements in student outcomes, retention, and overall success through targeted support strategies.

    2. Nature of the Role: Exemplary performance in advisory, clinical, or academic support functions that strengthen educator preparation programs.

    3. Contributions and Innovations: Development or implementation of creative approaches, tools, or resources that address challenges and improve processes within the college.

    4. Process Improvements: Demonstrated ability to streamline systems, enhance efficiency, and foster a culture of continuous improvement in student support services related to educator preparation programs.

    5. Evidence of Success: Documented achievements, such as increased engagement, improved program completion rates, or positive feedback from students and faculty.


    This award celebrates professionals whose behind-the-scenes efforts create transformative experiences for future educators, ensuring they are well-prepared to thrive in their careers.

    Each award will include a certificate and a complementary spring conference registration.

  • The VACTE School-University Partnership Project Award recognizes collaborative projects that promote student learning, well-being and improvement of teacher preparation.

    Proposals may be submitted on behalf of any Virginia institution of higher education educator preparation program. The application must include:

    • Description of how the project has been collaboratively designed by school and university partners

    • Description of how, based on research and best practice, project activities will lead to improving student learning, well-being and improvement of teacher preparation

    Preference will be given to projects strong in design and in an advanced stage of implementation.

    Each award will include a certificate and three complementary spring conference registrations.

  • The VACTE Educator-Researcher Award recognizes individuals who, at any point in their undergraduate or graduate program, design and implement a research project addressing a key issue in student learning and/or educator development.

    • Proposals may be submitted on behalf of any student currently enrolled in an initial licensure or advanced preparation degree program at a Virginia higher education institution.

    • The research proposal must describe current research and literature regarding the issue and clearly outline the proposed research project.

    • Project proposals are expected to exemplify strong research design and methodology.


    The recipient of the award is expected to collaborate with their faculty mentor to prepare an article defining the research for publication in The Teacher Educators’ Journal, a publication of VACTE.

    Awards will be given for research at various stages in the process, with preference given to those projects in an advanced stage of implementation.

    Each award will include a certificate and a complementary spring conference registration.

  • The VACTE Friend of Education Award is the Association's highest honor and recognizes an individual, organization, or group whose leadership, acts, or support have significantly benefited public education, education employees, and/or students at the Commonwealth level.

    This award is presented in the spirit of colleague, friend, and VACTE leader, Dr. Edgar Herbert “Herb” Thompson, Emory and Henry College.

    Proposals may be submitted on behalf of any VACTE member-institution educator preparation program. Submissions must include:

    • Evidence of significant impacts benefitting public education, education employees, and/or students at the Commonwealth level.

    Each award will include a certificate or plaque and a complementary fall or spring conference registration. Additionally, the VACTE will make a donation of $500 in the award recipient’s name to the university/college or organizational fund of greatest relevance to the honoree.

Past Award Recipients

  • Sarah Verbeck

    B.A. in Elementary Education

    Virginia Wesleyan University

    Outstanding Student Initial Licensure Program

    Sarah’s nominator: “Sarah Verbeck is an elementary education candidate of the highest caliber. Early on in the program, she proved herself to be dedicated to her coursework and developing her skills as a teacher. In her classes, she brings a positive and enthusiastic attitude that is contagious to her peers, often leading in collaborative work and projects. In her field experiences, she has demonstrated herself to be one of the most passionate and natural novice educators I’ve seen in the field. She builds rapport with students in a natural and comfortable way, listening to what each one has to say, and takes advantage of teachable moments. Her reflections demonstrate that she is constantly striving to make herself a better teacher and find her own unique style of teaching.”

  • Lori Woodhouse

    BIS in Individualized Studies in SPED

    James Madison University

    Outstanding Student Initial Licensure Program

    Lori’s nominator: “Lori exemplifies unwavering dedication to becoming an exceptional special education teacher. While balancing full-time work as a paraeducator with her coursework in the program, Lori has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to both her personal growth and her students' success. Her passion for special education is evident in her relentless pursuit of knowledge, her professionalism, and her drive to create inclusive and effective learning environments. Lori's ability to reflect on her practice, adapt to the diverse needs of students, and continually evolve as an educator positions her to make a meaningful, long-lasting impact on the field of special education.”

  • Sarah Batchelor

    B.S.Ed. in Elementary Education

    University of Mary Washington

    Outstanding Student Initial Licensure Program

    Sarah’s Nominator: “Sarah is a perfect candidate for this recognition because she has demonstrated exceptional dedication and commitment to her studies. She is an outstanding teaching candidate. Her assignments are always thoughtful, early, and go above and beyond expectations. She is always bringing joy to others and is willing to assist her colleagues. Sarah has continuously worked in schools to gain experience. For example, during Covid she worked at an elementary school and put together curriculum for students. In her current internship placement, she is excelling. She is fully prepared to teach and will no doubt be an outstanding educator.”