ACTFL Welcomes New Leaders to Its Board of Directors for 2026

Introduction

The American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) has announced the appointment of new members to its Board of Directors for the upcoming year 2026. These leaders have a wealth of experience and are poised to make a significant impact on the field of language education.

New Board Members

Beginning January 1, 2026, the newly elected and appointed members will bring a diverse set of skills and expertise in language teaching and administration. Among them is Brandon Locke, the President-Elect, who has dedicated years to overseeing World Languages and Immersion Programs within the Anchorage School District in Alaska. With a solid background in educational leadership, Brandon is recognized for his efforts in promoting Indigenous language education, particularly the Yup'ik language.

Additionally, Suwako Watanabe, a professor from Portland State University, has been elected as the at-large member for Higher Education. Her extensive research in linguistics and language pedagogy, as well as her leadership roles, enhance the educational landscape that ACTFL aims to uphold.

Ellen Ericson, another at-large member specializing in K-12 education, brings nearly three decades of teaching experience and is noted for promoting proficiency-centered teaching methods. As a National Board Certified Teacher, her insights into curriculum development will play a crucial role in shaping future language education.

Alicia Dallman Shoemaker, representing the Central States, is an acclaimed language teacher recognized for her significant contributions to language education in both secondary and post-secondary settings. Her advocacy for student-centered language policies aligns perfectly with ACTFL’s vision.

Lastly, Zoe Jiang, the PNCFL representative, actively contributes to fostering world language education through her various leadership and volunteer roles, showcasing her commitment to continuous improvement in this field.

The Impact of New Appointments

According to Milton Alan Turner, ACTFL Board President, the addition of these leaders marks an exciting development for the organization. Each member’s unique background and impressive track record will help drive ACTFL’s mission of enhancing language education.

Lawrence M. Paska, the Executive Director of ACTFL, echoed similar sentiments, anticipating that the collective expertise, passion, and innovative ideas of the new board members will significantly influence the direction of language education, especially during pivotal moments.

The incoming board members not only reflect a breadth of knowledge in language teaching but also embody a deep commitment to fostering an inclusive environment for learners. Their collaborative efforts are expected to ensure that ACTFL continues to support effective language instruction and learning opportunities for all educators and students.

Conclusion

As the year unfolds, the new board members will undoubtedly face challenges that come with evolving language education policies. However, with their diverse expertise and shared vision, they are well-equipped to guide ACTFL and the global language education community as a whole. Together, they aim to inspire future generations of language learners and teachers, reaffirming the importance of language as a vehicle for cultural understanding and global citizenship.

ACTFL looks forward to this new chapter and extends its gratitude to those whose terms conclude at the end of 2025 for their dedicated service. Their contributions have laid a strong foundation that will benefit the ongoing journey of language education in the years to come.