(MURRAY, Ky.) — A Murray State University education professor has been selected as Kentucky’s outstanding professional in career and technical education for 2024.
Dr. Donna Crouch, who directs Murray State’s Career and Technical Education (CTE) program, received the Postsecondary Professional of the Year award from the Kentucky Association of Career and Technical Education (KACTE). The prestigious recognition honors her contributions to preparing the next generation of career education teachers.
Crouch joined Murray State five years ago as an assistant professor in special education before transitioning to lead the university’s CTE program. Her work focuses on training educators who will teach technical skills in high schools and community colleges across Kentucky.
“I am very thankful for Donna’s hard work and diligence for the CTE program,” said Dr. Kemaly Parr, chair of Murray State’s Department of Adolescent, Career and Special Education. Parr called the award an honor for the entire department.
The recognition came as a welcome surprise to Crouch, who learned of her selection during the first week of July.
“To me, it was a very big deal to be named the Postsecondary Professional of the Year for KACTE,” Crouch said. She immediately shared the news with friends and family.
According to Crouch, the award reflects years of networking and advocacy on behalf of CTE teachers throughout Kentucky. She views the recognition as motivation to expand her efforts in the coming year.
Career and technical education programs prepare students for skilled trades and technical careers, addressing workforce needs in fields ranging from healthcare and manufacturing to information technology and agriculture.
The KACTE award recognizes professionals who demonstrate exceptional leadership, innovation, and commitment to advancing career and technical education at the postsecondary level.
More information about Murray State’s CTE program is available at murraystate.edu/coehs.