ACTE Announces Illinois Retired Teacher Cindy Stover as the 2025 National Award Winner

 

[December 13, 2024]    ALEXANDRIA, VA—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, Past Executive Director of the Capital Area Career Center in Springfield, IL and the past Director of the Lincolnland Technical Education Center and Lincolnland Delivery System 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.

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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.

[Text & Photo from Cindy Stover]