Fort Campbell Educator Inspires at National AVID Summer Institute

Carleen Alford, an AVID Elective Teacher at Mahaffey Middle School at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, delivered a powerful keynote address as the 2025 AVID Educator Speaker at the AVID Summer Institute, held June 16-18 in Orlando, Florida. Selected from hundreds of applicants, Alford’s speech during the General Session highlighted resilience, student voice, and the unique challenges faced by military-connected students, marking a milestone in her 27-year career.

A teacher from the Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) Americas Southeast District, Alford shared her journey to the national stage, which began with a heartfelt submission to the 2025 AVID Speaker Contest. Her message resonated with thousands of educators, emphasizing the importance of building trust and creating safe spaces for students in transition. “I don’t just teach a class—I build a bridge. Between uncertainty and hope, between struggle and success,” Alford said.

The AVID Summer Institute, a cornerstone of professional development for educators, celebrated its 45th anniversary this year. On June 16, Alford was honored at a reception alongside nominees for AVID’s Global Achievement Awards, fostering a sense of unity among attendees. The following day, her name and image filled the Coquina Ballroom’s massive screen as she took the stage, speaking for every student she has taught at Fort Campbell, where frequent moves and deployments shape daily life.

One poignant moment came after her speech when Anastasia, a fifth-grade student who recently recovered from brain surgery, approached Alford. “When I saw Ms. Alford on that big stage, I felt like I could do something big too,” Anastasia said. Her mother, Ashley, added, “She didn’t just see a speaker—she saw a reflection of her own potential.” For Alford, the experience was about visibility for her students and the military-connected community. “When you speak your truth, you free others to find theirs,” she said.

The AVID Summer Institute provided a platform for Alford to amplify the voices of students who face unique challenges, reinforcing the power of representation and purpose. Her speech, coupled with personal connections like those with Anastasia, left a lasting impact. “This was not just my moment—it was ours,” Alford said, reflecting on DoDEA, Fort Campbell, and educators who lead with heart.