Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, Lt. Governor Jim Tressel, and Ohio Department of Education and Workforce Director Stephen D. Dackin today announced Ohio’s 2026 Business-Education Leader Awards for Excellent Business Advisory Councils.
All Ohio school districts and educational service centers have a Business Advisory Council: a group of local school, business, and community leaders who work together to ensure that students’ educational opportunities align with local and state workforce needs, while also providing students with valuable work-based learning opportunities.
The annual Business-Education Leader Awards honor Business Advisory Councils that stand out for their efforts to create and sustain career-connected learning opportunities for students.
“We are proud to celebrate the Business Advisory Councils that are making a real impact preparing students for the opportunities waiting for them beyond graduation,” said Governor DeWine. “Aligning education with the needs of our communities is essential to Ohio’s future. That’s why we continue to support increased access to career and technical education, while also emphasizing career-connected learning opportunities in every Ohio classroom. When our students gain the skills they need to succeed in today’s workforce, we empower them to reach their full potential.”
“Our Business Advisory Councils are another example of how our state creates opportunity through collaboration,” said Lt. Governor Tressel. “Our new WorkOhio program is built on a similar foundation. It’s all about bringing together experts who know the jobs and industries that are in demand. Our most effective Business Advisory Councils are the ones that work as a team to expose students to all the opportunities available to them so they can pursue a future that excites them in one of our state’s top career paths.”
“We are celebrating these Business Advisory Councils for giving students authentic, real-world experiences that help them explore their interests and develop knowledge and skills for the future,” said Director Dackin. “Their innovative and forward-thinking strategies align education with regional economic needs and provide students with a clear, supported pathway from the classroom to high‑opportunity careers.”
Congratulations to all Southwest Regional Award Winners!
Three Star Acknowledgements:
- Brown County Educational Service Center
- Cincinnati Public School
- Greater Cincinnati Business Advisory Council|
- Southern Ohio Educational Service Center