Empowering Women in Leadership: Breaking Barriers and Shaping the Future

Presented by Dr. M. Ann Levett, Superintendent, Savannah-Chatham County Public School System (GA); Dr. April Grace, Superintendent, Shawnee Public Schools (OK); and Dr. Aurelia L. Henriquez, Superintendent, Port Chester-Rye Union Free School District (NY)
Moderated by Tiffany Law, Director of Partner Relations, Institute for Education Innovation

Sponsored by Institute for Education Innovation

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Watch an edLeader Panel that focuses on empowering women in leadership! Our speakers share their personal journeys, insights, and tips for breaking barriers and shaping the future as female leaders. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain inspiration and learn practical strategies for advancing your leadership skills.

This recorded edLeader Panel is of interest to K-12 school and district leaders.

About the Presenters

Dr. M. Ann Levett, Superintendent of Savannah-Chatham County Public School System, has had a distinguished career in education. With over four decades of experience, she served as Chief Academic Officer and Deputy Superintendent of Savannah-Chatham Public Schools (SCCPSS) before assuming the role of Superintendent in June 2017. Dr. Levett’s expertise extends beyond the district, having held leadership positions in Dayton, Ohio, and in higher education at Antioch University and Yale University School of Medicine.

Throughout her career, Dr. Levett has managed grants exceeding $15 million, facilitated school-university partnerships nationwide, and spearheaded school reform initiatives in Europe. She has consulted on community development projects in various locations, including Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Recognized for her contributions to education, she has served on state education boards and authored publications. She is also a respected speaker, consultant, and proud mother of two adult daughters.

Dr. April Grace, Superintendent of Shawnee Public Schools, has over 30 years of experience in education. Known for her innovative approach, Dr. Grace has spearheaded transformative initiatives in Shawnee Public Schools, such as a nationally recognized telemedicine partnership and a districtwide commitment to staff and student health. The district has earned accolades as a top workplace. As the second female president in the 88-year history of the Oklahoma Association of School Administrators, Dr. Grace has been recognized for her leadership, receiving the 2021 OASA State Superintendent of the Year award. She is a member of esteemed organizations such as the American Association of School Librarians Administrative Collaborative and the AASA National Women’s Leadership Consortium.

Dr. Grace holds a doctorate in educational leadership from the University of Phoenix, along with a master’s degree in secondary school administration and a bachelor’s degree in science education from the University of Oklahoma. She actively serves in various educational associations, including the Oklahoma Association of School Personnel Administrators, Cooperative Council for Oklahoma School Administration, and the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development.

Dr. Aurelia Lucia Henriquez is the Superintendent of the Port Chester-Rye Union Free School District in New York State. She has 27 years of experience and has served in diverse educational roles, including Superintendent on Long Island and Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum, Instruction, and Personnel in Brentwood, the largest suburban school district on Long Island. Dr. Henriquez’s extensive background as a teacher, curriculum developer, principal, and adjunct professor has honed her leadership skills and deepened her understanding of the needs of diverse student and staff populations. Having worked in rural, urban, and suburban communities, she excels in addressing the unique challenges faced by different groups.

Focused on fostering collaboration and high standards, Dr. Henriquez has achieved notable success in improving student achievement and community engagement. She is committed to creating an inclusive educational environment guided by a shared vision of excellence. Beyond her district responsibilities, Dr. Henriquez serves on the boards of the New York State Association of Women Administrators and the New York State Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents. Her contributions extend to presenting at international conferences and publishing articles on topics such as diversity and inclusivity in educational leadership.

About the Moderator

Tiffany Law is a highly accomplished and dedicated member of the Institute for Education (IEI) team. As one of the founding team members, Tiffany plays a critical role in ensuring a seamless and impactful experience for every IEI attendee, from start to finish.

In her current position as Director of Partnership Relations, Tiffany demonstrates exceptional proficiency in fostering strong relationships and driving collaborative efforts. With her deep passion for education and unwavering dedication, she ensures that partnerships thrive, creating boundless opportunities for innovation and growth.

Learn more about viewing the live presentation and the recording, earning your CE certificate, and using our new accessibility features.

Join the Mentorship for K-12 Leaders community to network with educators, participate in online discussions, receive invitations to upcoming edLeader Panels, and view recordings of previous programs to earn CE certificates.

The Institute for Education Innovation is bridging the gaps between the individuals and organizations committed to seeing students succeed in school and life, creating a safe space for constructive problem-solving and innovative thinking.