The Michigan Association of School Boards (MASB) is pleased to announce that Don Wotruba has been appointed to the position of deputy director for the association. Don was previously the director of government relations. Don has been with MASB for 12 years, during which time he has built countless relationships with both association and education leaders to help further MASB’s goals and reputation. Don holds a master’s in public administration and is a nationally certified association executive. Don has been instrumental in advocating for many initiatives to help school districts, including health care and retirement reform for public school employees, the anti-voucher campaign, and the K-16 rally that mobilized more than 12,000 Michiganders in support of funding equity.

Don will continue to serve in his capacity as director of government relations, focusing on advocacy on behalf of public education and outreach to members. Specifically, Don will continue to advance the association’s short- and long-term legislative priorities, and represent MASB on external affairs that impact public education.

MASB is also pleased to announce the selection of Richard “Dick” Dunham as the new director of superintendent search for the association. Dick is currently the superintendent at Laingsburg Community Schools and brings more than 30 years of public education experience as a teacher, principal and superintendent to the position. He holds a bachelor and master’s degree from Central Michigan University.

Dick’s objective will be to assist school districts in finding highly qualified, committed individuals who possess a vision and passion for public education to be their next leader. He will accomplish this by developing a team of adjunct consultants in terms of skills and diversity, and with individuals who possess honesty, integrity and the ability to be agile in meeting the needs of MASB member school districts. He will also evaluate the association’s current selection process and develop a more dynamic candidate pool.

Other MASB announcements include the promotion of Angel Davis to project coordinator where she will assist with the board member training program and coordinate logistics for one-day workshops, events, vendor relations and the exhibit show. Brad Banasik will now oversee labor relations activities for the association, in addition to his role as legal counsel.

 “We are very fortunate to have the kind of quality people we have in Don, Dick, Brad and Angel. They are outstanding advocates for public education,” said Executive Director Kathy Hayes.