After a 22-year tenure as the association's leader, ASCD Executive Director and CEO Dr. Gene R. Carter has officially retired. Dr. Carter stepped down effective June 30, 2014, and assumed the title of Executive Director Emeritus.
During his tenure, Dr. Carter led ASCD's international expansion, advocating for the whole child and healthy school communities on a global scale. Additionally, under Dr. Carter's leadership, ASCD grew the association's professional development programs, products, and services, including publishing capabilities, conferences and institutes, and digital offerings.
"On behalf of everyone in the ASCD community, I want to thank Dr. Carter for his time served and for all of his contributions to the education field," said Becky Berg, ASCD's immediate past president. "Dr. Carter's visionary leadership over his 22-year tenure has strengthened ASCD's position as a valuable resource for educators around the world and a model for associations everywhere."
A native of Staunton, Va., Dr. Carter earned his bachelor's degree in history from Virginia State University and his master's degree in educational administration from Boston University. He earned his doctorate in instructional and curricular practice in 1973 from Teachers College, Columbia University. He also received an honorary Doctor of Law degree from Virginia State University and an honorary Doctor of Letters degree from Old Dominion University.
Before joining ASCD, Dr. Carter served in multiple capacities as a teacher, administrator, and university professor. He spent nine years as the superintendent of schools in Norfolk, Va., where he succeeded in reducing the dropout rate, built a partnership program with the private sector, implemented a districtwide school improvement program, and established an early education center for 3-year-olds and their parents.
"Although I have thoroughly enjoyed my tenure at ASCD and especially the opportunity to work with countless committed individuals over the past 22 years, I am anxiously looking forward to beginning the next chapter in my life with my family, friends, and colleagues," said Dr. Carter.
The ASCD Board of Directors met and appointed Judy Seltz to the position of Acting Executive Director. Seltz previously served as Chief Constituent Services Officer and Deputy Executive Director.