Celebrating Excellence: Announcing the First GED Educator of the Year Award
September 10, 2026
At the 2026 GED National Conference in Atlanta, GED Testing Service introduced the inaugural GED Educator of the Year Award. This award recognizes dedicated instructors who make a meaningful impact on adult learners and the communities they serve. The honor celebrates professionals who demonstrate a focus on adult learning and inspire student success.
The first recipient was Stanley E. Hayes, Jr., of Sumter Adult Education in Sumter, South Carolina. Hayes was recognized for his contributions to adult learning and his support of GED students.
The quality of nominations reflected the significant work taking place in programs across the country. In addition to this year's winner, GED Testing Service would like to spotlight 10 outstanding finalists whose commitment to student achievement reflects the values at the center of this award.
2026 GED Educator of the Year Finalists
- Keir Borrensen, Clearwater Adult Education Center, Clearwater, Florida
- Jane Bourque, Manchester Adult & Continuing Education, Manchester, Connecticut
- Rachael Chesnut, Laurel County Adult Education, London, Kentucky
- Sarah Holmes, Santa Rosa Adult School, Milton, Florida
- Jay Marietti, Eaton RESA Adult Education, Lansing, Michigan
- Manuel Padilla, Literacy Connects, Tucson, Arizona
- Maureen Ryan, New Haven Adult Education Center, New Haven, Connecticut
- Joyce Vercellino, Hardin County Adult Education Program, Elizabethtown, Kentucky
- Lynnette Washington, Morris County Vocational School District, Denville, New Jersey
- Chris Robinson, Thorn Hill Education Center, Frankfort, Kentucky
GED Testing Service is proud to celebrate the instructors who devote their careers to helping adult learners achieve their educational goals. We look forward to continuing the GED Educator of the Year Award in the years ahead and honoring the professionals whose efforts strengthen adult learning and transform lives.