Lieda A. Shadwick – Educator

St. Louis, MO – Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Lieda A. Shadwick is recognized as Educator of the Year 2026 for her outstanding contributions to educational leadership and marketing education.

Ms. Shadwick has devoted her career to preparing students for future success through career and technical education. As a marketing educator at Riverview Gardens High School in St. Louis, Missouri, she helps students develop practical marketing skills, leadership abilities, and real-world readiness through hands-on learning and competitive academic programs.

With 26 years of experience in education—including 20 years at the high school level and six years in middle school—Ms. Shadwick has earned a strong reputation for guiding students through career-focused opportunities. She currently advises the DECA student organization, mentoring students as they participate in competitive events, community service initiatives, and workforce readiness programs that build confidence and professional growth.

Ms. Shadwick emphasizes the importance of career and technical education across multiple facets of marketing, including entrepreneurship, branding, digital strategies, market research, and professional communication. She connects classroom learning with practical application, equipping students with the skills and experience necessary for long-term success in marketing and business careers.

Her academic background includes a Master of Arts in Teaching with a focus in Educational Technology from Webster University (2005), and dual bachelor’s degrees—a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and a Bachelor of Music in Music Performance from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville.

Ms. Shadwick remains actively involved in professional organizations, including the Association for Career and Technical Education, the Missouri ACTE, the Marketing Educators of Missouri, the National Business Education Association, and DECA.

Before entering education, Ms. Shadwick served eight years in the United States military and participated in Operation Desert Storm during the Gulf War in 1991. Her leadership and dedication have earned recognition from the International Association of Top Professionals, including Most Inspirational Educator of the Year (2026), the Presidential Award (2026), Top Career and Technical Educator of the Decade (2025), inclusion in Top 50 Fearless Leaders (2025), and inclusion in Top 25 Global Impact Leaders (2026).

She was also featured through Marquis Who’s Who on Loving Living Local, where she highlighted the importance of career and technical education, DECA, and real-world learning opportunities for students.

In 2026, Ms. Shadwick expanded her influence as an educator and author with the publication of her book, Shaping Futures: A Life in Education, Leadership, and Legacy, which reflects her journey in education, leadership, and student empowerment.

Outside of her professional work, Ms. Shadwick enjoys spending time with her family, along with photography, ice skating, arts and crafts, and painting.

Looking ahead, Ms. Shadwick remains committed to continuing her impact in education, supporting students as they develop the marketing skills, confidence, and leadership abilities needed for future success.

Media Feature:
Loving Living Local Interview Featuring Lieda Shadwick
Published Work:
Shaping Futures: A Life in Education, Leadership, and Legacy

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