2026 CCAE State Award Winner Bios

Awardee: Pang Vangyi

​Central Section

Pang Vangyi, is the Regional Coordinator for the State Center Adult Education Consortium. Pang has done an amazing job with outreach and transition services for our consortium. She is always willing to share the Best Practices that she and her team have established. Pang has transformed the transition to the college process. She has an outstanding sense of what needs to be done to improve programs. She is a deep thinker and is very creative when coming up with solutions to problems or more productive ways to help students succeed. Another of Pang's strengths is the way that she can relate to all the people that she works with as she guides the consortium in attaining their objectives. Pang loves what she does, and it is evident because she always has a bright smile and kind words for everyone she meets. She always has her door open, and all are comfortable going to her for advice and guidance. As a 17-year member of CCAE Pang provides fundraising and assists current board members with her past CCAE experience at Fresno Adult School, to become involved. She often attends Central Section meetings and has helped with Fall Section and State CCAE conferences where she is always willing to present.

Awardee: Robert Proctor

L.A. Metro Section

Robert Proctor is the ESL Pathway Advisor and member of the School Support Team for the LAUSD Central Office. Bob began his career in adult education in 1996. He has taught every ESL level. In 2022, Robert joined the LAUSD DACE Curriculum & Instruction Unit. As an ESL Advisor, he quickly became indispensable through his leadership, creativity, and fearless problem-solving. Also known as “Chef Bob," he has been integral to student persistence and achievement. During this year's ICE raids across the city, Robert served as the DACE We Are One Liaison, coordinating resource distribution, hosting webinars, and representing adult education at the district’s table for immigrant support. As lead for the DACE Citizenship program, he mentors teachers, partners with USCIS, applies for grants, co-developed the online ESL 2 and Citizenship courses, and co-authored Citizenship Basics, a study guide for those seeking US Citizenship (you can find it on Amazon.com). Additionally, he is part of a state Citizenship email thread where he exchanges updates and supports citizens involved in the naturalization process across the state. Robert’s impact extends well beyond the LA Metro Section. He has contributed multiple presentations on best practices and led work through CATESOL, LARAEC, the CASAS Summer Institute as well as CCAE.

Awardee: Maria Grubb

South Coast Section

Maria Grubb is the EL Civics Coordinator at El Monte-Rosemead Adult School where she has provided outstanding support to adult education through her innovative instruction, leadership, and student advocacy. Since beginning her ESL teaching career in 2003, she has helped hundreds of adult learners improve their language skills, build confidence, and pursue further education or employment. With a BS in Business Administration and an MA in TESOL, Maria bridges academic expertise with practical application. Maria has led initiatives to align instruction with real-life competencies, preparing students to succeed both in the classroom and in the workforce. Her leadership in IET programs such as Personal Care Aide and General Office Clerk has further expanded career pathways for ESL students. Maria has been a pillar of support and enthusiasm at the chapter, section and state level of CCAE over the past 10 years. Her leadership and participation in chapter fundraisers and events have strengthened camaraderie among staff and elevated the visibility of adult education. Through her consistent presence at state conferences, Maria has shared innovative instructional strategies, and technology enhanced EL Civics practices in her presentation to educators across California.

Awardee: Anel Martinez

Southern Section

Anel Martinez has made remarkable contributions to CCAE through her outstanding leadership, dedicated service, and commitment to education at the chapter, section, and state levels. She has held key roles, including Vice President, President, and Past President of the PACE Chapter, as well as President Elect, President, and Past President of the Southern Section. Anel strengthened these groups by organizing events that fostered community and engagement, advocating for member participation in conferences, and collaborating with administration to support the chapter board. Her efforts to recruit and welcome new members significantly expanded the chapter’s membership base. Currently, she serves as Member-at-Large on the CCAE state board and is one of the Tri-chairs of this 2026 State Conference. At her real job, Anel has served as the sole mentor at Sweetwater for teachers clearing their Adult Ed credentials, providing foundational training and ongoing professional growth. She manages the Perkins, WIOA, and ELL Pathways grants and supports master schedule development to ensure program alignment, compliance, and operational efficiency. Her leadership and dedication have profoundly impacted education and the broader community.

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