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Best Practices for CTE Administrators Conference 2026
Type: General Session clear filter
Wednesday, October 7
 

8:00am PDT

Opening General Session: The Next 100 Starts Now
Wednesday October 7, 2026 8:00am - 9:15am PDT
Kick off this year's conference with a unique opening session that celebrates ACTE's 100th anniversary while looking ahead to what's next. For a century, ACTE has brought together CTE leaders committed to advancing opportunities for learners, strengthening communities and preparing the workforce of tomorrow. As we celebrate that legacy, you'll hear from leaders in the field doing the work you're doing every day. Through their experiences, we'll reflect on how innovation, partnership and leadership have shaped CTE's past—and explore how adaptability and bold thinking will define its future.
This inspiring opening session features three dynamic segments designed to spark ideas, broaden perspectives and prepare you for the opportunities ahead:
• Hear the founder of a groundbreaking entrepreneurial school share how human-centered design and innovation are transforming teaching and learning in CTE, with practical ideas you can bring back to your own programs.
• Get a timely update from a leading voice in federal CTE policy, with a clear, accessible overview of what's happening in Washington and what it means for administrators today and in the year ahead.
• Join us for a fireside chat with ACTE's Administrator of the Year as she discusses her programs, lessons learned, leadership experiences and strategies for strengthening the perception and impact of CTE for students, educators and communities.
For 100 years, CTE has adapted to meet the changing needs of students, employers and communities. The next chapter will depend on leaders who continue that tradition—not by preserving the status quo, but by shaping what's next. We hope you'll leave energized, inspired and ready to make the most of the conference experience.
Speakers
avatar for Alisha Hyslop

Alisha Hyslop

Chief Policy, Research & Content Officer, ACTE
Dr. Alisha Hyslop has spent 25 years working in career and technical education and is
currently the Chief Policy, Research & Content Officer at the national Association for
Career and Technical Education. At ACTE, Alisha leads the organization’s policy,
advocacy, research, program... Read More →
avatar for Sandra Adams

Sandra Adams

VP Administration Division, ACTE
Sandra currently serves as a CTE administrator, instructional consultant, keynote speaker and ACTE Board member for Administration. Her passion for active learning and high-quality instruction led her to author four books on CTE instruction and meaningful collaboration, including... Read More →
RJ

Riley Johnson

Founder and Principal, Amp Lab at Electric Works
DP

Donna Prudhomme

Director of Career and Technical Education (CTE), 2026 ACTE National Administrator of the Year, Beaumont ISD
Wednesday October 7, 2026 8:00am - 9:15am PDT
Colorado Ballroom

1:15pm PDT

General Session Panel
Wednesday October 7, 2026 1:15pm - 2:15pm PDT

Wednesday October 7, 2026 1:15pm - 2:15pm PDT
Colorado Ballroom
 
Thursday, October 8
 

10:30am PDT

Friday Closing General Session Ryan Lavarnway
Thursday October 8, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am PDT
Why Not You? Leading the Next Century of CTE
How everyday decisions, habits, and ownership drive student success and workforce impact
Ryan Lavarnway is proof that resilience, adaptability, and determination can lead to incredible success- no matter the odds.
As someone who’s been added to and removed from Major League Baseball rosters more than anyone else in history, Ryan’s story isn’t just about success—it highlights the power of perseverance. Overcoming every obstacle, he built an impressive 10-year MLB career as a catcher, became a World Series Champion, and competed as an Olympian.

Ryan’s journey started at Yale University, where he was an NCAA Batting Champion and All-American. Drafted by the Boston Red Sox in 2008, he went on to play for some of baseball’s most iconic teams, setting records and leaving his mark on the sport.

On the international stage, Ryan proudly represented Israel in the World Baseball Classic and the 2021 Olympics. As the first captain of Team Israel’s National Team, he earned MVP honors and led with passion and purpose, cementing his place in baseball history.

Now, Ryan’s taking his winning mindset beyond the diamond. As a sought-after speaker and mentor, he’s helping corporate teams, sales professionals, and aspiring athletes unlock their own potential. Drawing from his personal journey, Ryan shows how embracing challenges, staying adaptable, and fostering an unshakable belief in yourself can create success.

With humor, humility, and real-world experience, Ryan doesn’t just inspire—he empowers audiences to take bold steps toward big goals, no matter where they’re starting from.




Speakers
Thursday October 8, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am PDT
Colorado Ballroom
 
Best Practices for CTE Administrators Conference 2026
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