CTE Administrator of the Year

Marilynn Babyar is the relentless administrator all hope to experience. As West-MEC Director of Student Services, she oversees recruitment, counseling, and career services, directly impacting the student life cycle. Her leadership style is “clear the path” for students and staff.

Under her supervision, access and equity is at the forefront of student recruitment and retention. She developed a certification team; efforts on prepaid certifications, group testing and transportation resulted in students exceeding the national rate on industry certifications. A member of the Total Quality Indicators, Curriculum and Instruction and Student Services Leadership Teams, she develops initiatives and supports for staff and students. She champions the district strategic plan for teaching, learning and parent engagement with exceptional, engaging orientation and open house events.

Marilynn was a visionary for West-MEC working with the Superintendent; they added counselors helping students access programs, succeed and launch into careers. West-MEC has multiple counselors, recruiters, career coaches and registration staff. West-MEC offers “Super Saturdays Registration” and student-led open houses. “Discovery Meetings” offer parents, students, and counselors an opportunity to meet to individualize students’ college and career paths. Exceptional Student Services teams are in place to support students with disabilities.

Marilynn serves on leadership and local directors’ teams. Marilynn works with ADE on ACTE conference counselor planning. She developed the CTED counselor luncheon from a small gathering to a large event by creating “speed dating” with CTE Superintendents providing “boots on the ground” feedback.

In addition, Marilynn is an ACTEAZ Fellows Graduate. She leaves No stone unturned when it comes to CTE opportunities for so many.