Spring Quarterly News Update | |
Hello Counseling and Career Development Members! |
Spring Into the Finish Line!
As we move into the final stretch of the school year, we know the days are long, the to-do lists are longer, and the energy tanks may be running low. But we also know that this is the time when your impact is most visible—when students finalize postsecondary plans, explore career paths, and take bold steps toward their futures.
Whether you're helping students navigate FAFSA, prepping for graduation, or supporting last-minute transitions, your work matters deeply, and your commitment does not go unnoticed.
Take a deep breath—you’re almost there! We hope this newsletter brings you some inspiration, important updates, and a reminder that you are part of a powerful community of professionals who are all crossing the finish line together.
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Sincerely,
Brooke Kusch
ACTE Counseling and Career Development Division VP
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National Policy Seminar Update
The 2025 ACTE National Policy Seminar (NPS), held March 16–19 in Arlington, Virginia, was a powerful gathering of career and technical education (CTE) professionals focused on advocacy, policy, and elevating the voice of CTE at the national level.
The counseling and career development (CCD) division was proud to be represented, and we were especially excited that our new professional Fellow, Jennifer Breman, attended her first official event in this role. Jennifer participated in leadership and advocacy training, engaged with ACTE leadership, and took part in Capitol Hill visits—bringing attention to the importance of CCD in shaping successful pathways for all learners.
Her participation is a great reminder of the value of emerging leaders within our division and the impact CCD professionals can have at both the state and federal levels.
Thank you to everyone who continues to represent CCD and advocate for the vital work we do in helping students explore, plan, and pursue their futures through CTE.
| | Brooke Kusch, CCD VP and Jennifer Breaman, CCD Fellow, at NPS | |
ACTE Board of Directors Elections –
CCD Vice President-Elect Position
Nominations for the ACTE Board of Directors are open from April 1–June 15. We encourage members passionate about advancing our division to consider running for the CCD Vice President-Elect position. This role involves a one-year shadow term starting July 2026, followed by a three-year term beginning July 2027.
To apply, please submit your nomination through the ACTE Awards Portal before the June 15 deadline. For questions or assistance, contact Lisa Hollingsworth, our division's nominating committee representative.
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VISION 2025: Early Bird Registration is Now Open!
Join 5,000+ career and technical educators, business leaders and industry experts for an unparalleled professional development experience at ACTE’s CareerTech VISION 2025. As the largest annual gathering of its kind, VISION offers:
• Hundreds of concurrent educational sessions covering instructional best practices, curriculum design, hands-on strategies for improving student outcomes and more
• Inspiring keynote speakers and thought leaders sharing insights on the latest trends and the future of CTE
• The CareerTech Expo, a dynamic space to explore the latest tools, technologies and resources that drive innovation in CTE
This year, we're headed to Nashville, Tennessee! Join us Tuesday–Friday, Dec. 9–12, at the stunning Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center — the perfect backdrop for networking, collaboration and career growth.
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Register Now for ACTE's Spring School Study Visit
Explore one of the nation's most innovative postsecondary CTE centers during the Kirkwood Community College School Study Visit in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Happening June 2–3, this immersive experience includes state-of-the-art facility tours, networking with CTE leaders from across the U.S., and exclusive insights from institutional leaders. Registration includes accommodations, meals, ground transportation, and airport transfers, and there are special rates for educational institution members.
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National Leadership Development Opportunity
The ACTE National Leadership Fellowship Program is designed to empower CTE professionals by enhancing their leadership skills, offering hands-on experience in policymaking and supporting their professional growth. The 2026 cohort will run January–December 2026, with fellows receiving a $1,500 stipend, along with complimentary registration for ACTE’s CareerTech VISION and National Policy Seminar. Applications are open May 1–Sept. 15.
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Student Scholarship Opportunity!
Encourage students and adult learners, ages 18–35, to apply for Horatio Alger Association Career and Technical Education Scholarships, offering several CTE-specific scholarships for students planning to enroll in CTE programs at public institution. The application is open now through June 15.
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Association for Career and Technical Education
1410 King Street, Alexandria, VA 22314
703-683-3111
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