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Kuder's Paige McDonough Receives 2025 NCDA Outstanding Career Practitioner Award

On July 1, 2025, in a announcement filled with pride, Kuder, Inc. revealed that Paige McDonough, their Senior Director of Career Development, has been awarded the 2025 Outstanding Career Practitioner Award by the National Career Development Association (NCDA). This award acknowledges McDonough's remarkable dedication and influence in the field of career development, recognizing her innovative approach and leadership strategies that have positively impacted many lives around the world.

The award was presented during the NCDA Global Career Development Conference held in Atlanta, Georgia, where professionals from various domains gathered to share insights and innovations in career development. McDonough stood out among the nominees thanks to her extensive experience, commitment to community service, and her innovative contributions to the field.

In her acceptance speech, McDonough expressed her gratitude for the recognition, emphasizing the human element inherent in career development. She stated, "Career development is deeply human work. Whether I'm supporting educators, employers, or individuals, my focus has always been on helping people navigate their path with confidence — even when that path is uncertain."

With a career that spans diverse roles in educational institutions and non-profit organizations, as well as significant domestic and international workforce initiatives, McDonough has been a catalyst for change. She has not only been instrumental in implementing career development practices worldwide but also continues to shape initiatives related to career guidance within Kuder. Her approach is characterized by a holistic and inclusive mindset, ensuring that career development is a process accessible to everyone.

Connor Harrington, the CEO of Kuder, praised McDonough's contributions, stating, "Paige is not only a thought leader but a practitioner who truly lives out Kuder's mission to help people discover and achieve what they want to be. Her work strengthens Kuder's reach across educational institutions, governments, and workforce development agencies — this recognition is a testament to the profound difference she makes every day."

This honor is not just a celebration of McDonough's past achievements; it is also seen as a beacon of the future of career development. Her work symbolizes a commitment to creating holistic, equitable, and scalable career development solutions that are grounded in both research and meaningful human connections.

Kuder, Inc., the organization behind McDonough's achievements, has been at the forefront of career development for years. They are recognized for helping over 165 million people globally unlock their potential through evidence-based career planning systems. Their flagship product, Kuder Navigator®, provides a comprehensive suite of tools for students, aiding them from exploration through to making postsecondary education decisions. With McDonough leading the way, Kuder continues to innovate and adapt its programs to meet the dynamic needs of today’s career seekers.

In summary, Paige McDonough’s recognition by the NCDA underscores the vital role of career development professionals in guiding individuals through the complexities of their career paths. Her commitment to helping others navigate their future confidently is an inspiring example for many, setting a high standard for others in the field of career development.