FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Marlen Zarcone
mzarcone@acteonline.org
ACTE Announces Michigan Counselor at Genesee Career Institute as National Award Finalist
ALEXANDRIA, VA—Today, the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) announced Vanita Wilson, Counselor at Genesee Career Institute in Flint, Michigan, as the 2025 ACTE Region I Counseling and Career Development Professional. This award recognizes the finest career and technical education (CTE) teachers at the middle/secondary school level who have demonstrated innovation in the classroom, commitment to their students and dedication to the improvement of CTE in their institutions and communities.
Vanita Wilson brings over 25 years of dedicated counseling experience to her role as a Guidance Counselor at Genesee Career Institute (GCI) in Flint, MI, where she supports the success of over 1,900 students. Renowned for her holistic approach, Vanita builds meaningful relationships with students, parents, and the broader community, creating a nurturing environment that empowers students to reach their full potential. Her commitment to the GCI community has made her an invaluable asset, known for implementing strategies that foster both educational achievement and personal growth.
Vanita’s academic journey reflects her dedication to social advocacy and educational excellence. She earned a bachelor’s degree in social work from the University of Michigan-Flint and a master’s degree in Guidance and Counseling from Spring Arbor University. Her career highlights include running a day treatment program for adjudicated youth and managing the Genesee Go program, which provided scholarships to deserving students. At GCI, Vanita has pioneered initiatives that expanded the curriculum, introducing programs like HVAC and Refrigeration, and earning recognition as the ACTE Michigan School Counselor of the Year.
In 2023, Vanita was honored with the Children’s Champion Caring Adult Award, acknowledging her profound impact on countless young lives. She also initiated a monthly educational meeting for Genesee Area School Counselors, fostering collaboration and continuous learning among her peers. Her personal philosophy, grounded in the belief that education is a transformative tool, guides her commitment to treating each student as a unique individual. Vanita’s leadership and dedication to social-emotional learning have set a benchmark for excellence, inspiring both students and colleagues alike.
Wilson is one of five finalists for the 2025 national title. The national winner will be announced at the ACTE Awards Gala, an award presentation recognizing the best CTE educators in the country. The event will take place on December 4, at 7:00 p.m. The Awards Gala is sponsored by Express Employment Professionals, Goodheart-Willcox, The Army, 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.
