Kentucky FCCLA Student Leaders Bring CTE Impact Story to State Senate

“CTE is not an alternative path. It is a powerful path.”

On Monday, February 16, 2026, Kentucky FCCLA State President Cayden Dunn and First Vice President Danae Owens addressed the Senate Standing Committee on Education, sharing firsthand how Career and Technical Education (CTE) and Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) prepare students for success—inside the classroom and far beyond it.

Speaking on behalf of more than 11,000 FCCLA Members across the Commonwealth and 145,000 students enrolled in CTE courses statewide, the student leaders highlighted what educators and FCCLA Advisers see every day: CTE builds confidence, leadership, and real-world skills that help students discover who they are and what they can become.

They also expressed appreciation for the continued support of CTE and Career and Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs), including FCCLA—programs that help students connect learning to purpose, service, and careers.

One student leader shared a powerful personal reflection about growth through FCCLA—describing how they began as a nervous freshman in 2022, unsure of themselves and even uncomfortable wearing the organization’s signature red blazer. Today, they said, they stand confident—ready to speak to anyone, anywhere—because FCCLA created a community and opportunities that changed their life.

In their testimony, the leader described how FCCLA helped them say “yes” to FCS, shaping a future goal of becoming a Family and Consumer Sciences teacher and FCCLA Adviser. Through the organization, they shared that they have gained mentors and friendships, led statewide leadership efforts, planned and facilitated a leadership camp, guided more than 300 members at a national leadership conference, and helped launch a statewide community network to strengthen member connections and support.

Their message was clear: when students are empowered to lead, they do not just participate—they build programs, strengthen communities, and create pathways for the next generation.

With Kentucky’s future educators, healthcare professionals, entrepreneurs, and workforce leaders in the room, policymakers heard directly what CTE makes possible. When students speak, leaders listen—and Kentucky FCCLA student leaders made their voices heard.

FCCLA is proud of Cayden, Danae, and all Kentucky FCCLA Members who represent the power of CTE every day. We are grateful for Kentucky’s continued commitment to Career and Technical Education—and for the educators and supporters who help students turn classrooms into career-launching platforms.