Counseling & Career Development

Professional

Palisade HS, Mesa Valley D51 Schools

 

Colorado ACTE is proud to announce Jonathan Burke as the Region V Counseling and Career Development Professional for 2025. Jonathan has shown exemplary leadership in improving CTE and expanding student opportunities through career cluster-themed worksite tours, professional development for educators, educational and financial planning events, and the organization of a district-wide Workforce Development Day. His strategic vision, collaborative efforts, and commitment to aligning education with industry needs have significantly enriched the CTE experience for students and educators alike, fostering a community where educational and career success is accessible to all. Jonathan will now represent Region V at the 2025 ACTE Awards Gala on December 9th, during CareerTech VISION in Nashville, TN.

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Family & Consumer Sciences Teacher

Holmes Middle School

Kelly Gauck has dedicated over 30 years to shaping the lives of young people as a public school teacher. Her energy, passion, and commitment to her students are truly unmatched. With a vibrant voice and a contagious laugh, she fills every room with enthusiasm and energy. In her classroom, she brings each lesson to life by making it hands-on, practical, and relevant to her students' everyday lives.

What sets Kelly apart is her rare ability to balance structure, high expectations, care, and fun—a combination that's often difficult to achieve, she does it effortlessly. She creates a learning environment where students feel both challenged and supported, and where they are empowered to take ownership of their learning.

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Kelly is not just a teacher—she's a mentor, a role model, and a lifelong advocate for her students. Her unwavering dedication to CTE and FCS education has inspired many of her former students to say "YES" to FCS and pursue careers in education, following in her footsteps.
 

Associate Professor, Education

Colorado State University

Dawn has distinguished herself through her professional roles within FCS and CTE, demonstrating a deep commitment to the education and development of future generations. Her service on advisory boards across Northern Colorado has been instrumental in shaping the curriculum and direction of FCS and CTE programs, ensuring they remain relevant and effective in meeting the needs of students and the workforce.
Dawn's leadership positions in the Colorado Association of Family and Consumer Sciences, Colorado Association Teachers of Family and Consumer Sciences, and Colorado Association for Career & Technical Education have been pivotal in promoting the importance of FCS and CTE. Her vision and guidance have helped these organizations thrive, contributing significantly to the advancement of FCS in Colorado and beyond.

Dawn's outstanding service and leadership in Family and Consumer Sciences and Career and Technical Education are a beacon of inspiration to us all. Her dedication, innovative spirit, and unwavering advocacy have made an indelible mark on our field. CACTE is honored to recognize her achievements and express our deepest gratitude for her contributions.
 

Family & Consumer Sciences Teacher

Catering and Culinary Essentials Lead

Northglenn High School

Tatianna consistently goes above and beyond for her students. She will do extensive research and networking in order to improve her knowledge about the topics she's teaching.

Tatianna highly prioritizes relationships in her work, becoming a safe adult and mentor to so many Northglenn students during her 3 years at Northglenn. One student had this to say about her: "Ms. Medina is not only an incredible teacher but also an amazing person. She goes above and beyond to make sure every student feels confident in the kitchen, teaching with patience, passion, and a great sense of humor. She truly cares about her students and inspires us to improve every day. There's no one more deserving of this recognition!"
 

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Principal

Future Forward Washington Square

Adams 12 Five Star Schools

With 17 years of dedicated service to Career and Technical Education (CTE) in Adams 12 Five Star Schools, Marv's journey from a successful career in the mortgage industry to a visionary CTE leader is nothing short of inspiring. From his roots as a high school business and marketing teacher to his pivotal role in the creation and leadership of two Dedicated Career and Technical Schools-FutureForward at Bollman and FutureForward at Washington Square-Mary has consistently demonstrated his unwavering commitment to student success, teacher support, and program innovation.

His ability to build strong industry partnerships, expand work-based learning and concurrent enrollment opportunities, and foster a school culture that draws admiration from across the state sets him apart as a true leader. Marv's collaborative spirit, mentorship of fellow administrators, and tireless advocacy for CTE make him not only deserving of this award but a model for excellence in the field.

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Colorado HOSA State President

Cherokee Trail High School

Through HOSA, Aanya has exemplified the mission and purposes of CACTE by championing excellence in CTE programming, raising awareness about the value of CTSOs, and helping connect students across Colorado to leadership and service opportunities. She has used her platform to advocate for equity, expand access to professional development, and strengthen the visibility of student voices in shaping the future of CTE. Her growth reflects a deep commitment to HOSA's motto: Learn, Lead, Serve, and Innovate—a mindset she brings into every initiative.

More than just titles and accomplishments, Aanya embodies servant leadership. She listens with intention, acts with purpose, and inspires those around her through both her words and actions. Whether she's uplifting underrepresented voices or representing Colorado on the national stage, Aanya leads with heart, humility, and vision.

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