Dr. M. Edward Cheeks will assume the role of CEO on April 1, 2024. His most recent position was as the Chief Programs Officer for NAESPA, where he led and coordinated committee goals and strategies in alignment with the association’s strategic plan. With a rich background in administering Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) grants, he previously served as the Executive Director of Federal Programs in Mississippi. Dr. Cheeks has been an integral part of NAESPA for over 15 years, contributing as both a staff member and a member of the Association. In 2015, he held the esteemed position of President of NAESPA, and since 2017 has served as the Chief Programs Officer. Known for his dynamic and innovative leadership, Dr. Cheeks is dedicated to making a positive impact on the education community. Dr. Ken Banter President of NAESPA stated, “The NAESPA Board is pleased with Dr. Cheek’s promotion, which will help to ensure continuity of fulfilling our mission.”
About his appointment, Dr. Cheeks stated, “NAESPA is the premier organization for administrators and staff supporting ESEA programs. I am honored to serve as CEO and look forward to working with the Association's Board of Directors and membership to further advance programs to meet the needs of underprivileged youth and children.” M. Edwards’ educational achievements, including a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership from the University of Mississippi, an M.S. in Educational Guidance and Counseling from Jackson State University, and a B.S. in Humanities with an emphasis in Philosophy from Tougaloo College, are complemented by his extensive experience in the education sector. This combination of academic accomplishments and practical knowledge makes Dr. Cheeks a highly qualified leader. Furthermore, Dr. Cheeks' status as a licensed ordained minister speaks to his passion for serving others and positively impacting people's lives. To contact Dr. Cheeks, please send an email to medward@eseanetwork.org or call 800-256-6452.
The National Association of ESEA State Program Administrators (NAESPA) announces the departure of Erin Hanley as the organization’s CEO effective March 31, 2024. Erin has served as CEO for over three years and will be stepping down to focus more on her family. With Erin’s Leadership, NAESPA is experiencing record numbers of association members and conference attendees. Reflecting on her time with NAESPA, Erin Hanley remarked, “Together, we have remained unwavering in our mission of capacity building for educators through a chapter in history in which the need for support to educators and to students has perhaps never been greater”. The NAESPA family wishes Erin the best in future endeavors.
NAESPA – National Association of ESEA State Program Administrators
NAESPA is a membership organization made up of State ESEA Program Administrators and their staff from each of the states and territories charged with managing their state federal education program. They ensure compliance with federal regulations, but more importantly, they work to ensure that all children—especially those living in economically disadvantaged conditions—have the opportunity to receive a high-quality education. To learn more about NAESPA and its National ESEA Conference, which will be held in Austin, Texas, February 19- 21, 2025, visit www.eseanetwork.org.
