Waubonsee Community College’s Emergency Medical Technician - Paramedic program has received national recognition from Advance CTE, a national nonprofit that represents state directors and leaders responsible for secondary, postsecondary and adult career technical education (CTE) programs across the U.S.
Waubonsee’s program was one of 11 programs selected for the Excellence in Action award, which recognizes innovative and impactful CTE programs across the nation.
Waubonsee’s honor was based on its “uniquely innovative and effective approach to offering rigorous coursework, authentic and meaningful work-based learning experiences, and supported transitions from secondary to postsecondary education and on to successful careers,” according to Advance CTE officials. Waubonsee received the award in the Health Science Career Cluster as a result of their commitment to providing a supported and seamless pathway between secondary and postsecondary education, work-based learning opportunities, and rigorous academic and technical coursework preparing students with the skills they need for success.
Waubonsee Dean of Health Professions and Public Service, Dr. Jess Toussaint, accepted the honor at an award luncheon and reception as part of the Advance CTE Spring Meeting in Washington, D.C. this week.
“We are proud to receive national recognition that highlights the importance of secondary, post-secondary and industry collaboration in the development of rich CTE programs,” said Dr. Michelle Evans, Waubonsee Assistant Dean for Health Professionals and Public Service. “These collaborations have allowed our program to maximize educational opportunities for students while also meeting the unique needs of the communities where our students work after graduation.”
Kimberly Green, Executive Director, Advance CTE, said the awards highlight programs that demonstrate commitment to student success.
“These Excellence in Action award winners have high expectations that result in their students truly being prepared for success in college, careers and life,” she said. “By shining a national spotlight on these programs, we hope to challenge others to use them as a model for what high-quality CTE looks like and can achieve.”
