Saline’s Lauren Williams Wins National 2026 Educated Adviser Award

Lauren Williams, a Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) Adviser at SWWC-Saline in Michigan, is this year’s Educated Adviser Award recipient. FCCLA’s Educated Adviser Award is bestowed annually to one current chapter adviser who exceeds all expectations in their professional development activities and participation throughout the school year. To be considered for this award, advisers must complete a minimum of five continuing education units, or 50 professional development units, from FCCLA-specific events.

Williams is a Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) teacher at Saline High School, where she helps students build practical life skills and prepare for future careers. Through courses that may include nutrition, personal finance, and leadership development, she equips students with real-world knowledge they can use beyond the classroom. In addition to teaching, she serves as an FCCLA adviser, mentoring students, guiding them in leadership activities, and supporting their participation in state and national programs.

“In the past three years, Lauren has exemplified excellence in every dimension of teaching and leadership. She has served as Conference Coordinator for the 2025 Michigan Family and Consumer Sciences (MIFCS) Conference, showcasing her organizational skills, professional influence, and passion for the field. Her work as an FCCLA Advisor has been equally exceptional, her chapter thrives under her mentorship, with students consistently qualifying for national-level recognition. This dedication was honored when Lauren received the FCCLA Michigan Spirit of Advising Award in 2025, a well-deserved acknowledgment of her impact on students and colleagues alike,” said Theresa Stager, Principal of Saline High School.

“Lauren is also our lead adviser for mentorship [in Michigan]; she volunteers her personal time to facilitate the Michigan FCCLA New Adviser Development Workshop each October…Lauren’s professional development has transformed her chapter in a positive way. This extra education has empowered her chapter to pursue more awards and recognition. SWWC-Saline brought their largest group in several years to the State Leadership Conference, earned Gold Chapter Status for Go for the Red, elected two state officers and has earned The Ultimate Chapter Award for the first time in the state’s history” said Andrew Richardson, the State Coordinator for FCCLA.

Lauren will be formally recognized at the 2026 FCCLA National Leadership Conference in Washington D.C.. Surrounded by thousands of Members, Advisers, and FCCLA supporters, this award presentation will highlight Lauren’s unwavering commitment to the values and vision of FCCLA.