Northern Virginia superintendents, LaTanya McDade and Aaron Spence support critical work to improve student well-being through the Eastern States Superintendent Council
Washington, DC, Nov. 19, 2024 — Dr. LaTanya D. McDade, superintendent of Prince William County Public Schools, and Dr. Aaron Spence, superintendent of Loudoun County Public Schools are working with the American Heart Association, celebrating 100 years of lifesaving service in 2024, and 15 other superintendents to improve the health and well-being of students, families and educators. McDade and Spence were selected to serve as volunteer leaders for the Association’s Eastern States Superintendent Council.
The Eastern States Region encompasses 13 states, along with Washington, D.C., from Maine to Virginia. The new Superintendent Council is aimed at helping to strengthen the work of the American Heart Association across school districts in the Eastern States Region. The Council will share, inform and help shape the work of the American Heart Association, leading to greater impact across the region. The Council members will help shape solutions and responses to current issues facing schools and districts.
Dr. LaTanya D. McDade, superintendent of Prince William County Public Schools (L) and Dr. Aaron Spence, superintendent of Loudoun County Public Schools (R)
“As trusted voices in the Greater Washington Region, we are incredibly proud that Dr. McDade and Dr. Spence are lending their expertise as we work toward combatting issues that are affecting student well-being and overall health,” said Abby Bartley, vice president of school engagement for the Eastern States Region. ”The Superintendent Council plays a critical role as we work to improve the lives of everyone in the region and we’re excited to see the transformational impact the council will make on students within our community.”
The Superintendent Council is an elite group of American Heart Association volunteers comprised of superintendents from a diverse mix of urban and rural public-school districts across the Eastern States Region. Council members serve a two-year term, participating in stakeholder sessions and offering their individual and collective expertise to assist the American Heart Association in creating a culture of health in school systems and communities across the region.
The council complements the work of the American Heart Association’s in-school programs, Kids Heart Challenge™ and American Heart Challenge™, where volunteers with different backgrounds and perspectives focus on improving the health and well-being within their local communities and are committed to efforts that will help children achieve healthier, happier and longer lives.
Eastern States Region Superintendent Council members:
- Chairman Dr. Aaron Spence, Loudoun County Public Schools, VA
- Co-Chairman Mark Laurrie, Niagara Falls City School District, NY
- Dr. Brian Brotschul, Somerset Hills School District, NJ
- Dr. Peter Cummings, Narragansett School System, RI
- Ketler Louissaint, School District 75, NYC, NY
- Dr. Joseph Massimino, Woodbridge Township School District, NJ
- Dr. Amy Martell, Canton Area School District, PA
- Dr. LaTanya D. McDade, Prince William County Public Schools, VA
- Dr. Salvatore Menzo, Goodwin University Magnet School System, CT
- Dr. Michele Mitchell, Newport News Public Schools VA
- Dr. Meredith Nadeau, School Administrative Unit 21, NH
- Dr. Patricia Saelens, Queen Anne’s County Public Schools, MD
- J. Douglas Straley II, Louisa County Public Schools, VA
- Dr. Bill Stropkaj, Keystone Oaks School District, PA
- Dr. Leslie Torres-Rodriguez, Hartford Public Schools, CT
- Eddie Vincent, Barbour County Schools, WV
- Dr. Tamara Willis, Susquehanna Township School District, PA
“I am honored to join the American Heart Association’s Eastern States Superintendent Council and contribute to the vital work of improving student health,” said Dr. LaTanya D. McDade. “At Prince William County Public Schools, we prioritize the physical and mental well-being of our students.”
“Schools are not only places for academic growth but are vital spaces for fostering the physical, mental, and emotional development of children,” added Dr. Aaron Spence. “It’s essential that we create environments that support the whole child, and through this initiative, we are helping to shape healthier school communities where every student can thrive.”
The work of the American Heart Association, to save and improve every child’s life, is rooted in the organizational vision that all children, regardless of gender, race, location or economic status, should be able grow to their full potential. Efforts are being made around the country, including through this council, to make the places where kids live, learn and play to support their physical health and mental well-being, because according to the American Heart Association, only 29% of children have high cardiovascular health1 based on Life’s Essential 8 measurements.
For 100 years the American Heart Association has saved and improved lives, pioneered scientific discovery and advocated for healthy communities. To learn more about American Heart Association youth-based programs visit www.heart.org/getstarted.
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About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for a century. During 2024 – our Centennial year – we celebrate our rich 100-year history and accomplishments. As we forge ahead into our second century of bold discovery and impact our vision is to advance health and hope for everyone, everywhere. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
For Media Inquiries:
Hannah Ross, hannah.ross@heart.org
Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org