News Summary
Dia Davidson-Smith has announced her resignation as the district chief public engagement officer for Fayette County Public Schools, effective June 30, 2023. Superintendent Demetrus Liggins acknowledged her years of service and contributions to transparent communication within the school community. Davidson-Smith, an Emmy award-winning journalist with over three decades of experience, emphasized the importance of community engagement in education. The school board is now tasked with finding a successor to continue this vital role.
Lexington, KY – Dia Davidson-Smith has announced her resignation from her position as district chief public engagement officer for Fayette County Public Schools, effective June 30, 2023. This decision was included in the agenda for the school board meeting held on April 28.
Superintendent Demetrus Liggins has expressed gratitude for Davidson-Smith’s years of dedicated service within the district. Throughout her tenure, she has been recognized for her passion for storytelling and her commitment to fostering transparent communication within the school community. Liggins noted the value of her contributions, although no decisions have yet been made regarding a successor for the chief public engagement officer role.
Davidson-Smith’s career in public engagement within the educational sector began when she assumed her current role in July 2023. Prior to joining Fayette County Public Schools, she enjoyed a distinguished career as an Emmy award-winning news anchor and reporter at LEX 18 News for over 20 years. In total, her professional background spans more than three decades in news and journalism.
Her career originated at Temple University Public Radio, where she served as a membership coordinator. Following this, Davidson-Smith held various positions, including promotions manager and anchor/reporter at multiple radio and television stations along the East Coast. This extensive experience equipped her with the skills necessary for effective public engagement within the educational sector.
Davidson-Smith holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Georgia and a master’s degree in journalism from Temple University. Her academic background, combined with her professional experience, has allowed her to engage with diverse communities and audiences effectively throughout her career.
The departure of Davidson-Smith marks a significant change for Fayette County Public Schools, given her active role in promoting communication between the district and the community. As the school board seeks to find a suitable successor, the district aims to maintain its commitment to open dialogue and community engagement.
This transition comes at a time when educational institutions are increasingly recognizing the importance of transparency and engagement with their stakeholders. The role of chief public engagement officer is critical in building trust and maintaining an active dialogue with parents, students, and the larger community.
As Davidson-Smith prepares to leave her position, her legacy of dedication and commitment to the district may serve as a guiding framework for her successor. The school board’s exploration for the next chief public engagement officer will require careful consideration of the skills and experience needed to continue fostering positive relationships between the school district and its constituents.
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Additional Resources
- Kentucky.com: Education News
- Wikipedia: Public Relations
- Fox13 Memphis: MSCS Board Discusses Termination
- Google Search: Education Transparency
- Spectrum News: Fayette County School Board
- Google Scholar: Community Engagement in Education
- LEX18 News: FCPS Board Member Resignation
- Encyclopedia Britannica: School Boards
- WKYT: Rise STEM Academy Resignation
- Google News: Fayette County Public Schools
