LM Nov-Dec.2019

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LM Month 2019
As NewAssociate Director of Professional Development
Dr. Courtney Orzel has never forgotten an important
lesson she learned years ago about professional
development.
“Never assume that a one-size-fits-all approach is
going to work,” Orzel remembers. “It’s important to
create professional development opportunities that are
differentiated based on what the need is, and then be
willing to be flexible and change the direction of what
those who you are serving need in the moment. Also,
never take the opportunity for granted and have fun!”
Orzel, superintendent of Lemont-Bromberek CSD
#113A, plans to incorporate that lesson when she takes
over as IASA’s new Associate Director of Professional
Development on July 1, 2020. She will replace Dr.
Richard Voltz, who will retire on June 30, 2020 after 13
distinguished years with IASA.
Service to IASAMembers
The IASA Associate Director of Professional Development
serves a critical role in strengthening the work of
superintendents and preparing future leaders for the
superintendency.
IASA Executive Director Dr. Brent Clark says Orzel is
exactly the right person at the right time to propel IASA’s
tradition of high quality professional development forward.
As a superintendent, Clark says, Orzel demonstrated
tremendous leadership in helping get Lemont-Bromerek
By Jason Nevel
IASA Director of Social Media & Publications
IASAProud to
WelcomeDr.
CourtneyOrzel
CSD #113A She also has an extensive
background in professional development, including assisting
with IASA programs and teaching principal leadership
preparation and superintendent doctoral courses at the
university level.
“Dr. Orzel is an enthusiastic, knowledgeable, dedicated and
skilled leader who understands how to help superintendents
best serve their staff and impact student learning,” Clark says.
“She is a great addition to the IASA team, and I look forward
to seeing how she can enhance professional development.”
Why Join the IASATeam
Becoming a superintendent was a dream come true for
Orzel. And that hasn’t changed. She still loves the job and
continued...
It’s important to create
professional development
opportunities that are
differentiated based on
what the need is, and then
be willing to be flexible and
change in the moment.