About the Presentation:
Education today needs transformational leaders to boldly meet the challenges schools face. Whether you are a leader already or contemplating stepping into leadership this session invites participants to explore elements of authentic leadership through increasing self-awareness, understanding realities, and building impactful skills and tools. Participants will leave inspired to embrace the challenges of leadership with clarity and resilience, equipped to lead with both conviction and compassion as they prepare for even greater impact on students, staff, and communities.

About the Presenter:
Anita Wansley is the principal at Northeast Elementary School in Meridian, Mississippi. After obtaining her B.A. in special education from Eastern Mennonite University in Harrisonburg, VA, she spent the first 6 years of her career as a special education teacher. For the next 15 years she gained community leadership experience by serving as the Director of the Community of Hope Tutoring Program and as a Ministry Coordinator for a local church. Anita returned to the education field as an interventionist. Realizing her love of leadership she pursued a M.A. in Educational Leadership from Mississippi State University and began her career as a principal. Anita was selected as the Mississippi Administrator of the Year for 2024. She was also selected as one of 20 leaders in the nation for Curriculum Associates 2025 Extraordinary Educators Leaders Collective. Anita is the president of the Mississippi Association of Elementary School Principals (MAESA) and a member of Mississippi Professional Educators. Anita believes that both understanding and leading people are critical for continued achievement in education. She believes in the power of mindsets and utilizes her transformational leadership style to empower others towards growth