The Superintendent Effect

Can human connection save our schools? Join Anne Brown for an inspiring conversation with Dr. Gillian Chapman , Superintendent of Blue Valley Unified School District. Dr. Chapman explains how her district maintains its #1 ranking in Kansas through a unique blend of "real-world" professional studies and a deep commitment to student well-being. In this episode, you’ll learn: The CAPS Succe...

What does it take to lead a modern school system through transformative change? In this episode, we are joined by veteran educator Dr. Jill Gildea, current CEO of Colorado Early Colleges and former Superintendent of the Park City School District . Dr. Gildea discusses her "whatever it takes" approach to student-centered learning and why she believes the future of education lies in the &q...

How do strong superintendents build strong communities? In this episode of The Superintendent Effect , Anne Brown talks with Dr. Derek Simmons , Superintendent of Caroline County Public Schools in Maryland, about leadership, mental health, and culture in today’s schools. Dr. Simmons shares how his rural district has improved academic outcomes, reduced behavior issues, supported parents and staff,...

Superintendent Justin Henry shares his insights on building a thriving school district in Kansas. From innovative career pathways and STEM programs to mental health initiatives for students and staff, this episode explores the strategies behind long-term educational leadership. Learn how Justin’s 15-year tenure has shaped student success, empowered staff, and fostered a supportive community. Key T...

In this episode, Anne Brown talks with Dr. Andrea Norman , the new superintendent of Carlsbad Unified School District , home to more than 11,000 students in Southern California. Dr. Norman shares her unexpected path to becoming superintendent, the district’s unique “basic aid” funding model, and the work behind supporting both high-achieving and Title I schools. A great listen for education leader...

In this episode of The Superintendent Effect , Anne Brown talks with Dr. Sharon Pepukayi , superintendent of Talbot County Public Schools in Maryland , about leadership, school culture, mental health, and preparing students for a rapidly changing world. Dr. Pepukayi discusses her path from classroom teacher to superintendent, the mentors who shaped her career, and her district’s strategic plan— Al...

In this episode of The Superintendent Effect , host Anne Brown speaks with Kristen Barr, Superintendent of Peninsula School District (WA) , about preparing students for a rapidly changing world. Kristen shares how her district is integrating AI, project-based learning, outdoor education, and aviation career pathways to help students thrive in the future economy. She also reflects on the importance...

Join Anne Brown, President & CEO of the Cook Center for Human Connection, as she speaks with Dr. Matthew Friedman, Superintendent of Quakertown Community School District in Pennsylvania, about transforming K–12 education. Recognized as the Innovative Superintendent of the Year , Dr. Friedman shares his approach to preparing students for a rapidly changing global marketplace, using the Riasec f...

How do you lead a district through poverty, natural disasters, and teacher shortages — and still find hope? In this episode, Dr. Ingrida Barker , Superintendent of McDowell County Schools (WV) , joins Anne Brown from the Cook Center for Human Connection to share how her team is transforming rural education through creativity, community, and care. Dr. Barker opens up about: Growing up in Latvia and...

In this episode of The Superintendent Effect , Anne Brown talks with Dr. Tricia Mooney , Superintendent of Hermiston School District, Oregon. Dr. Mooney shares her journey from classroom teacher to superintendent and highlights her district’s innovative approach to mental health support, family engagement, and community connection . Learn how Hermiston became an AASA Lighthouse District , how pare...

In this episode of The Superintendent Effect , host Anne Brown sits down with Dr. Julie Vitale , Superintendent of Oceanside Unified School District in California, to explore what it truly means to lead with courage, compassion, and connection. Dr. Vitale shares how she’s transforming district culture by prioritizing belonging, inclusion, and student voice —and how leadership rooted in authenticit...

In this episode of The Superintendent Effect , host Anne Brown sits down with Dr. Amy Alzina, Superintendent of Cold Spring School District in California. Dr. Alzina shares how she’s leading with purpose and heart, helping students develop personal mission statements, and fostering a culture of happiness and resilience. She reflects on her journey from teacher to long-serving superintendent, how h...

In this episode of The Superintendent Effect , host Anne Brown sits down with Dr. Michael Lubelfeld , superintendent of North Shore School District 112 in Illinois. With more than 16 years of leadership experience, Dr. Lubelfeld reflects on his journey from classroom teacher to district leader, sharing lessons in mentorship, resilience, and community building . We explore: How Dr. Lubelfeld is int...

In this episode of The Superintendent Effect , host Anne Brown sits down with Dr. Patrick Keeley, Superintendent of the Mountain Empire Unified School District in rural San Diego County. Dr. Keeley shares his inspiring journey from history teacher and basketball coach to leading the same district where he once graduated high school. He opens up about the unique challenges of rural education—from l...

In this episode of The Superintendent Effect , host Anne Brown sits down with Dr. Theron Schutte, Superintendent of Marshalltown Community School District in Iowa. With over 40 years in education and 21 years as a superintendent, Dr. Schutte shares how returning to his hometown has shaped his leadership. He discusses leading through natural disasters, supporting one of Iowa’s most diverse district...

The Superintendent Effect kicks off with Dr. Sarah Calveric, Superintendent of Caroline County Public Schools in Virginia, as she shares her journey from special education teacher to district leader. Hosted by Anne Brown, CEO of the Cook Center for Human Connection, this episode dives into the challenges and rewards of the superintendency, the importance of mentorship, and how strong leaders build...

In this episode, host Anne Brown, President & CEO of the Cook Center for Human Connection, sits down with Dr. Melissa “Missy” Woodard, Superintendent of Wyomissing Area School District in Pennsylvania. Dr. Woodard shares her journey from classroom teacher to superintendent, her innovative approaches to honoring staff, supporting student mental health, and building whole-child initiatives, and...

The Superintendent Effect kicks off with Dr. Ryan Giffing, Superintendent of Conrad Weiser School District in Pennsylvania. In this episode, host Anne Brown, President & CEO of the Cook Center for Human Connection, explores Dr. Giffing’s inspiring journey from classroom teacher to superintendent — and the lessons he’s learned along the way. They discuss: The path to school district leadership...

The Superintendent Effect highlights strong leaders building strong communities. Hosted by Anne Brown, President & CEO of the Cook Center for Human Connection, this new podcast shines a spotlight on the often-unsung heroes of education—school superintendents. In this trailer episode, Anne shares why now is the moment to launch a podcast dedicated to telling the inspiring stories of superintend...