Besa-Vidal’s impactful career includes various teaching and leadership roles in special education.
INDIANAPOLIS, Aug. 18, 2026 — American College of Education® (ACE) has named Dr. Christine Besa-Vidal, a special education leader, literacy advocate and international education consultant, as its 2026 Alumni Achievement Award recipient. She earned an M.Ed. in Literacy from ACE in 2025, one of five academic credentials she holds alongside a bachelor’s degree, two additional master’s degrees and a Ph.D.
“I share this honor with my mentors, colleagues, students, families and everyone who has been part of my journey,” Besa-Vidal said. “I am especially grateful to ACE for helping me continue growing as an instructional leader and lifelong learner. The knowledge and experiences I gained continue to strengthen my work, allowing me to expand my impact across schools and communities in both Alaska and the Philippines.”
Besa-Vidal began her career as a special education teacher in the Philippines and has since taught in Alaska. She founded the Special Education Training Center in the Philippines, which provides professional development in inclusive education, literacy, assessment and behavior support to teachers, school leaders, parents and community members.
“We’re very proud of Dr. Besa-Vidal and the contributions she’s made in special education and beyond,” ACE President and CEO Geordie Hyland added. “Her work demonstrates the impact of dedication, lifelong learning and serving others, marks of a strong educator and an inspiration to the ACE community.”
Besa-Vidal is ACE’s 14th annual Alumni Achievement Award recipient.
About American College of Education
American College of Education (ACE) is an accredited, fully online private college specializing in high-quality, affordable programs in education, business, healthcare and nursing. Headquartered in Indianapolis, ACE offers more than 60 innovative and engaging programs for adult students to pursue a doctorate, specialist, master’s or bachelor’s degree, along with graduate-level certificate programs. In addition to being a leader in online education, ACE is committed to social responsibility as an Impact Institution, where operations are guided by purpose and designed to create real-world impact.
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SOURCE: American College of Education