Aspen is a place for leaders to lift their sights above the possessions which possess them. To confront their own nature as human beings, to regain control over their own humanity by becoming more self-aware, more self-correcting, and hence more self-fulfilling.

Walter P. Paepcke, Aspen Institute Co-Founder

LaTanya D. McDade

Superintendent, Prince William County Public Schools

Dr. LaTanya D. McDade was appointed as the Superintendent for Prince William County Public Schools (PWCS) on July 1, 2021. She is the first woman and African American to hold this position. Dr. McDade launched and led the ambitious Vision 2025 Launching Thriving Futures strategic plan, which delivered on improved learning and achievement for all, built a positive climate, increased family and community engagement, and achieved organizational coherence. Under her leadership, PWCS achieved an all-time high 94.8% on-time graduation rate for the 2024-25 school year and delivered significant improvements in academic achievement for all demographic subgroups. Dr. McDade has expanded career and technical education programs, invested in innovative technology, and increased equitable access to advanced courses. She has increased staff diversity and secured millions in philanthropic support and partnerships with local, national, and global communities and businesses. Building on her work from Vision 2025, Dr. McDade has initiated the PWCS Elevate 2030 Strategic Plan, a roadmap designed with the community to usher in the next decade of learning excellence, innovation, and opportunity. It represents the division’s promise to meet the future with clarity, courage, and purpose. Dr. McDade joined PWCS with 23 years of experience at Chicago Public Schools, where she served as Chief Education Officer. She holds a doctorate in educational leadership and supervision from Lewis University. Dr. McDade’s innovative leadership has earned widespread recognition.