DeLa'O Honored by CACTE

Arapahoe Community College (ACC) Faculty Compensation & Credentialing Coordinator Krystal DeLa'O was selected as the Colorado Association for Career and Technical Education (CACTE) Outstanding Career & Technical Education Student (postsecondary category) at the 2026 CACTE CareerTech Summit on July 22 in Pueblo.

The award recognizes an outstanding CTE postsecondary student who has demonstrated leadership, growth, innovation, and accomplishment in knowledge, technical skills and career readiness. CACTE is Colorado’s professional association for career & technical education and is an affiliate of the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) national organization. The annual CACTE CareerTech Summit recognizes individuals whose achievements strengthen workforce development and prepare students for successful careers throughout the state.

DeLa'O, who will complete her Bachelor of Applied Science degree in Business Administration from ACC in December 2026, is also the 2026-27 president-elect for the Postsecondary, Adult & Career Education (PACE) division of CACTE. PACE is a specialized professional group for educators and administrators involved in adult, technical, and postsecondary career & technical education.

"Krystal embodies the very best of career & technical education," said Adam Shelffo, ACC Business Faculty and current president of the CACTE PACE Division. "Her dedication, professionalism, and commitment to serving others make her an exceptional role model for students across Colorado. This recognition is well deserved, and ACC is proud of her accomplishments."

ACC drives new and creative approaches to education, with a focus on building forward-thinking pathways to social and economic mobility. ACC’s innovative, workforce-aligned programs deepen community collaboration, ensuring students and employers are equipped with skills and opportunities to thrive.