CULLOWHEE, NC – The North Carolina Center for the Advancement of Teaching (NCCAT) proudly announces that Candace Grimsley, an agriculture educator and Future Farmers of America (FFA) advisor at Public Schools of Robeson County, has been selected as the recipient of the William Frye Career and Technical Student Organization (CTSO) Award.
This $1,000 award recognizes exceptional educators who demonstrate leadership in Career and Technical Education (CTE) through their work with CTSOs.
"Receiving the William Frye CTSO Award is a tremendous honor," said Ms. Grimsley. "This award will help make it possible for more of my students to attend the NC FFA State Convention, where they can grow as leaders, compete at a high level, and represent our community with pride."
Under Ms. Grimsley’s leadership, Lumberton FFA has flourished, earning recognition as the Top FFA Chapter in North Carolina at the NC FFA State Convention in 2024. Her students also received a Gold ranking at the state level and a 3-star rating from the National FFA Organization for their achievements. She has successfully trained students in multiple Career Development Events, leading teams in Forestry, Land Judging, Agricultural Sales, Food Science, and Milk Quality competitions. Notably, Lumberton FFA’s Milk Quality team secured first place at the state level and earned a Bronze at the National FFA Convention.
Beyond competitions, Ms. Grimsley has spearheaded impactful community service and historical preservation projects, such as leading her students in the research, approval, and installation of a historical sign commemorating the silos at a local park, preserving a key piece of Robeson County’s agricultural history. The dedication ceremony, held during National FFA Week, was attended by local officials, community members, and descendants of the farm’s original owners.
Ms. Grimsley credits her participation in NCCAT’s CTE Teacher of the Year professional development program for expanding her teaching strategies. Inspired by a session, she integrated interactive activities into FFA meetings, fostering inclusivity and leadership within her chapter.
"Ms. Grimsley’s commitment to student success, hands-on learning, and community engagement exemplifies the mission of NCCAT to advance teaching as an art and a profession," said Dr. M. Brock Womble, NCCAT Executive Director. "We are proud to recognize her outstanding leadership in Career and Technical Education."
Ms. Grimsley was formally recognized at the CTE Teacher of the Year Recognition Event on February 20, 205, at NCCAT.
For more information about NCCAT and its programs supporting North Carolina educators, visit www.nccat.org.
* This press release originally appeared on NCCAT's website and was shared on this website with the organization's permission. *
Photo Caption: Announcement of Ms. Grimsley's honor at the NCCAT 2025 Burroughs Wellcome Fund NC Career & Technical Education (CTE) Teacher of the Year event at the John W. Bardo Fine and Performing Arts Center on the campus of Western Carolina University on Thursday, February 20th. In photo (left to right) - Marty Tobey Retired Assistant Director for CTE Regional Services and Reporting at North Carolina Department of Public Instruction; Dr. Wendy Mason, Co-Chair, NCCAT CTE Teacher of the Year Steering Committee; Dr. M. Brock Womble, Executive Director, NCCAT; and Herman Locklear, CTE Director for Public Schools of Robeson County.