14 Nashville State Educators Earn ACUE Certifications

As part of the college’s biannual Convocation, 14 educators were honored during a pinning ceremony on Nashville State’s White Bridge campus for earning ACUE (Association of College and University Educators) certifications. Five educators were recognized for earning their ACUE Advanced Certification in Effective Teaching Practices, and nine educators were recognized for completing Certification in Effective College Instruction.

Organized and led by The Teaching Center at Nashville State, these educators earned a nationally recognized teaching credential through a rigorous training process offered by the Association of College and University Educators (ACUE).

“Today’s pinning ceremony celebrates more than a credential, it recognizes the dedication, and reflection these faculty members have invested,” said Kimberly Leifker, director of The Teaching Center. “Reaching 125 ACUE-certified educators in five years is a remarkable milestone for Nashville State and demonstrates the shared commitment to teaching excellence and providing our students with a high-quality educational experience.”

Including these 14, during the past five years, 125 Nashville State educators have been recognized for earning their ACUE Certification.

The 2025-26 cohort includes:

Advanced Certification in Effective Teaching

• Kristen Bradley
• Audrey Cross
• Michelle Gillis
• Mark Helm
• Dara Talibah 

Certification in Effective Teaching

• Avan Hamalaw
• David Jehle
• Allie Nicole Ndaira
• Shreya Nagar
• Alyssa Nunez
• James Pegler
• John Smith
• Kathy Sugg
• Ruben Saroukhanian