Career Connect Students, Partners Recognized at 40th Annual Outstanding Achievement Awards
The Kalamazoo Regional Educational Service Agency (KRESA) and KRESA Foundation honored 93 learners in Kalamazoo County at the 40th annual Outstanding Achievement Awards on Thursday, April 30, 2026, at the Radisson Plaza Hotel.
Educators from Kalamazoo RESA’s career learning programs nominated these honorees who were recognized for their achievements in their respective programs.
Kalamazoo Central High School senior, Alwaleed Altayara said that his Cybersecurity Career & Technical Education (CTE) experience impacted him in many ways. “This program opened my eyes to real career possibilities and helped me make a smarter decision about my future.”
The KRESA Career Connect programs include:
- Career & Technical Education (CTE)
- Education for the Arts (EFA)
- Early/Middle College (EMC)
- Work-Based Learning (WBL)
- 2Gen
- Career Coaching
- CareerNOW
- Education Reconnection
- MyCITY
“Early/Middle College gave me so many real-world experiences and showed me something that I found I am really passionate about,” said Micayla DeWaal, Climax-Scotts High School senior.
Recipients have worked diligently in the classroom and the local community and were rewarded for their efforts. In addition to being publicly recognized for their outstanding performance at the event, each learner also received a scholarship as they venture into the next phase of their education or career.
“I am very grateful for the CTE programs, along with the opportunities they have provided. Thanks to this amazing system, I was able to understand my true calling,” said Marie Anderson, Portage Northern senior, who participated in the Culinary program junior year and Educator Academy her senior year; Marie plans to become a middle school math teacher.
In addition to the scholarship awards, Kalamazoo RESA recognized the Millennium Restaurant Group as the Business and Industry Partner of the Year award and the Northside Ministerial Alliance as the Outstanding Community Organization Partner of the Year Award.
“The Northside Ministerial Alliance’s partnership – this year and across many years – has been extraordinary, steadfast, and deeply impactful,” said Isaac Carter, KRESA Student and Community Outreach Coordinator.
“Millennium’s team has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to career learning through our Career connect department, supporting programs that help students explore and pursue careers in the culinary world,” said Kelsey McKague, KRESA Community Engagement Liaison.
Congratulations to all our award recipients.
