Pepin Academies is proud to celebrate Allen Gowan-Smith, a teacher at our Tampa campus, for being named a 2026 Economic Educator & Leadership (REEL) Award Winner by the Florida Council on Economic Education (FCEE).

Allen was among just 12 educators recognized during the FCEE Annual Conference after being nominated by the Gus A. Stavros Center for Free Enterprise and Economic Education at the University of South Florida’s College of Education. The statewide award honors educators who excel in teaching personal finance, economics, entrepreneurship, and financial literacy through engaging and innovative classroom experiences.

The REEL Award highlights educators who help students connect classroom learning to real-world decision-making and future success. Award recipients are recognized for their commitment to developing critical life skills that prepare students to navigate an increasingly complex economic landscape.

According to Peter Trakas, Director of the Gus A. Stavros Center for Free Enterprise and Economic Education, these educators “transform complex economic concepts into engaging, real-world learning experiences that inspire curiosity, build confidence and prepare students for the future.”

At Pepin Academies, we know that learning extends far beyond traditional academics. Helping students build practical skills for independent living, employment, and future success is a key part of our mission. Allen’s recognition reflects the high-quality educational experiences our students receive and the dedication of our teachers to making learning relevant, meaningful, and impactful.

Please join us in congratulating Allen Gowan-Smith on this well-deserved honor and thanking him for the positive difference he makes in the lives of our students every day.

We are proud to have him represent Pepin Academies among Florida’s outstanding educators.