ZANESVILLE, Ohio – Colette Smith, Director of Gifted Education at the Muskingum Valley Educational Service Center (MVESC), has been recognized with the 2024 Personal Finance Educator of the Year Award. The prestigious accolade was presented at the Alpaugh Family Economics Center’s 2024 Annual Awards Event on April 15, held at the Bally Sports Club at Great American Ball Park in Cincinnati.
The event was a grand affair, featuring a keynote speech from Cincinnati Reds President Phil Castellini and President of Baseball Operations Nick Krall. The occasion celebrated educators and their outstanding contributions to personal finance education.
Ms. Smith expressed her gratitude for the recognition, saying, “The Stock Market game is very impactful. Students get to see career opportunities that are available in the world of finance, and this allows them to understand finance and see their potential.”
Superintendent Lori Snyder-Lowe praised Colette’s innovative approach to teaching, stating, “Colette has taken personal finance and run with it. She is great at thinking outside of the box, helping students expand their horizons, and exploring possibilities for their future; which are all great attributes of someone teaching gifted.”
The Personal Finance Educator of the Year Award recognizes educators who excel in teaching personal finance concepts and inspire students to make informed financial decisions. Colette Smith’s commitment to educating students about finance and helping them discover their potential in the financial world has made her a standout candidate for this esteemed award.