SETDA names Indiana e-learning director as new executive director

The State Educational Technology Directors Association has announced that Candice Dodson, a longtime leader in education, will lead the organization as executive director.

Dodson told EdScoop, right away she plans to build and strengthen relationships within and outside of SETDA. By working together and forming strong partnerships, Dodson said, the organization can strengthen its message and share knowledge of edtech to support state education leaders.

Dodson, who was recognized by EdScoop for her career achievements in 2017, has served as the director of eLearning for the Indiana Department of Education since 2011, and will begin work at SETDA on May 6, she said.

Starting as a classroom teacher in the mid-80s, Dodson has had a long career in education.

“I feel like I’ve really been able to walk a lot of the paths,” said Dodson, who has held positions as an educator and technology leader at the school, district and state levels over her nearly 35-year career.

Her work experience, she said, will help her step in and lead SETDA with renewed energy and focus.

“Candice was a natural choice for SETDA Executive Director,” SETDA board chair Julia Fallon said in a press release. “Her enthusiasm and demonstrated leadership are highly valued by her SETDA colleagues and our partners, and we are excited to see where SETDA will go from here under her tenure.”

Dodson said she appreciates SETDA because it helps states do the best that they can to support their districts, schools and learners with edtech resources,

“Leveraging technology for learning absolutely unlocks the ability of educators to personalize learning for all of our students and it really is the strongest pathway to equity for all students,” she said. “That is SETDA’s mission.”

Dodson will replace outgoing executive director Tracy Weeks, who has lead SETDA since 2016. Weeks has accepted a new position in the private sector and her last day at SETDA will be March 22.