Simmie A. Raiford, Ph.D.

As executive director of Schultz, Simmie’s work is inspired by the John F. Kennedy quote, "Leadership and learning are indispensable to each other." She is a second generation public educator and a Jacksonville native who has spent her career supporting high-quality leadership, teaching, and learning in schools. She sees education as the gateway to a well-lived life and is grateful to all the teachers in her life for their hard work and dedication. Away from work, she enjoys traveling, event planning, and spending time with friends and family.