Brenda Tash and Jackie Smith will begin work in July with the Arkansas Leadership Academy based at the University of Arkansas. They bring over 50 years of experience and an impressive résumé of work in educational leadership. They are also both Designated Arkansas Master Principals.

Tash and Smith will work as capacity building leaders.

Tash earned a bachelor's degree from Tennessee State University in Nashville, graduating magna cum laude; a master's degree in school leadership, management and administration from the University of Central Arkansas in Conway; and an education specialist degree in educational leadership from Arkansas Tech University in Russellville. She is currently serving as director of curriculum at Westside Consolidated School District in Jonesboro.

Through her many years of service in Arkansas' public schools, Tash has developed a rich skill set that will serve the Arkansas Leadership Academy well.

"She possesses an unflagging willingness to hold everyone to high expectations for student learning, as well as being accountable for one's actions," said David R. Cook, director of the academy. "She is a trusted leader who strives for the maximum from those she leads."

Smith earned a bachelor's degree from Henderson State University in Arkadelphia, a master's degree from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock and an education specialist degree in educational leadership from the University of Central Arkansas. She is currently serving as the principal of Baker Elementary School in the Pulaski County Special School District.

"One of Mrs. Smith's greatest strengths is her ability to build community among her colleagues, as well as district administrators," Cook said. "Her willingness to help others and share her knowledge makes her a valuable asset. She knows what it takes to create a positive school climate and has the ability to make it happen."

"It is my pleasure to welcome Mrs. Tash and Mrs. Smith to the ALA team," Cook said.

Established in 1991, the Arkansas Leadership Academy is a nationally recognized, nonprofit organization whose mission is to develop and support leadership capacity that fosters equity and excellence in education. Working with 51 partners across the state, the academy embraces and models a collaborative learning and work culture to facilitate the development of high-performing individuals and organizations.