Dear NREA Members,
It is a true privilege to introduce myself as the new Executive Director of the National Rural Education Association.
My career in education spans more than three decades, rooted entirely in service to rural communities—as a classroom teacher, site principal, and rural superintendent in Arizona. I’ve had the honor of leading at multiple levels, including as the Executive Director of the Arizona Rural Schools Association, where I worked to elevate rural voices, grow statewide networks, and build partnerships that supported local leadership and student success.
That commitment continues today through my work in higher education and educational consulting—supporting rural leaders at all stages of their journey. Through my book, The Resilient Rural Leader (ASCD, 2024), and my podcast, The Rural Scoop, I’ve aimed to amplify the voices of rural educators and communities, spark meaningful conversations, and offer tools that strengthen our collective leadership. Whether working with school leaders, advocacy groups, or aspiring principals, my mission remains the same: to champion rural schools as vital, innovative, and deeply resilient parts of our national fabric.
As I step into this role with NREA, I bring a continued commitment to partnership, innovation, and purposeful leadership. Rural education is at a pivotal moment—confronting persistent challenges while stepping into remarkable opportunities. Building on NREA’s role as the recognized voice in rural education, my vision is to further position the organization as the go-to source for national dialogue, collective learning, and strategic action—uniting people, strengthening partnerships, and driving the changes our rural communities deserve.
Over the coming months, I’ll be working closely with our state affiliates, national partners, and member networks to ensure that NREA continues to lead with clarity, purpose, and impact. I’m excited about what we can accomplish together and look forward to hearing your ideas, amplifying your stories, and supporting the work that matters most to our rural schools and communities.
Always Advancing Rural Education,
Dr. Melissa Sadorf
Executive Director
National Rural Education Association
