Celebrating Educators and Economic Education in New Orleans 

This October, more than 400 teachers from across the country gathered in New Orleans for the Council for Economic Education’s 64th Financial Literacy & Economic Education Conference. The two-day event brought together educators, experts, and advocates who share a common goal: helping students build the knowledge and confidence to make informed financial decisions. 

Throughout the conference, attendees joined more than 45 sessions focused on practical, engaging classroom strategies. Workshops like Digging up Dino-Economics, Game On! Leveling Up Learning Through Gamification, and No Cash? No Checks? No Clue? Teaching Gen Alpha Personal Finance offered hands-on approaches for teaching economics in ways that connect with today’s students. 

Our keynote speaker, Jacob Clifford, kicked off the event with a reminder that economics education is really about decision-making and collaboration. Emcee Brian “Dyalekt” Kushner kept the momentum going by blending humor, rhythm, and real-world lessons about personal finance. On day two, Tiffany “The Budgetnista” Aliche inspired attendees to see money not as something to fear, but as a tool for empowerment and opportunity. 

CEE also celebrated the educators and organizations driving innovation in economic education. This year’s honorees included: 

• John Morton Excellence in the Teaching of Economics Award: Susanna Pierce McConnell and Diana Remick 

• Barry G. Haimes Award for Excellence in Teaching: Amanda Price 

• Alfred P. Sloan Foundation Teaching Champion Award: Manoj Thadhani and Ian Weissman 

• Albert Beekhuis Award: University of Delaware Center for Economics & Entrepreneurship 

• State Council of the Year: California Council for Economic Education 

The conference wrapped up with a New Orleans-style celebration: teachers sharing stories, new connections, and plenty of beignets. 

Thank you to all the educators, partners, and supporters who make this event possible each year. Your work ensures that students across the country gain the skills they need to understand the economy, manage their finances, and plan for the future. 

About the Council for Economic Education

The Council for Economic Education’s (CEE’s) mission is to equip K–12 students with the tools and knowledge of personal finance and economics so that they can make better decisions for themselves, their families and their communities. We carry out our mission in three ways. We advocate to require financial and economic education in every state. We provide training, tools and resources — online and live through over 180 affiliates nationwide — to more than 40,000 teachers annually, who in turn bring the highest quality economics and personal finance instruction to over 4 million students. We deepen knowledge and introduce high school students to critical career capabilities through our national competitions and Invest in Girls program. Learn more at CouncilForEconEd.org and on LinkedIn and on Facebook.

Media contact: 

CEE: press@councilforeconed.org