FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 1, 2024

Chattanooga, TN – The Executive Committee of the National Rural Education Association (NREA) has announced the appointment of David M. Ardrey as the Interim Executive Director of the NREA.

Mr. Ardrey is currently the Executive Director of the Association of Illinois Rural and Small Schools (AIRSS) and will continue in his role alongside this interim position. His decade-long service to the NREA includes his recent Presidency of the NREA in 2023; numerous board positions, committees, and legislative work; and serving on the NREA Foundation board. His commitment to the NREA is longstanding and his experiences will guide his work as he leads NREA to its next chapter.

“We are deeply grateful for [Dave’s] willingness to step into this role,” said Melissa Sadorf, NREA President. “With his extensive leadership experience and commitment to rural education, Dave will ensure continuity and stability while we continue the search for a permanent executive director.”

“The NREA obviously did their homework before selecting David Ardrey,” said Patrick M. Twomey, AIRSS President Emeritus. “David's knowledge and passion concerning rural education issues are second to none. He has developed AIRSS into an organization that will have a positive impact on nearly every community in our state for generations to come.”

Starting October 1, 2024 David Ardrey will serve as the NREA Interim Executive Director until a new Executive Director is hired. Contact information for David Ardrey is execdir@nrea.net.