Know Your UD

RENEE JOHNSON ZONE 1

Johnson believes her role as a UniServ Director is to teach educators how to advocate for themselves and others for the improvement of Public Education. “My goal is to engage members in opportunities to connect, grow professionally, and lead in their fields by accessing a network of support, resources, and relationships. Being a part of a collective voice for the betterment of our schools is not just encouraging. It is energizing. It is empowerment!”

LORANZO ANDREWS ZONE 2

Andrews says his duty is to be responsible for recruitment, retention, and advocacy services for approximately 25 school districts in Arkansas. His work as a UniServ Director in Arkansas has provided him with many opportunities for personal and professional growth. “I have a deep commitment for community organizing and how it can change working conditions and lives and develop leaders in the State of Arkansas. Having now gained first-hand experience working with AEA members, I am well-equipped to address issues facing Arkansas educators and advocate on their behalf.”

FELICIA DIXON ZONE 3

Dixon is a former educator and U. S. Navy veteran so she has a strong sense of justice. Born and raised in Birmingham, AL, a passion for social equality was cultivated at an early age. She believes in fighting for the rights of others, particularly educators who are often undervalued and underappreciated. The ability to empower others and make every person feel heard are the reasons why she LOVES this work! “I feel that all work has dignity and value. So, it peeves me when individuals are marginalized based on their position or salary. I know that everyone plays a critical role in helping students reach their full potential, whether it’s the bus driver, custodian, teacher, or principal, and all should be respected.” When she’s not working, Felicia enjoys spending time with her family, especially her 18-month-old grandson, cooking, crafting, and traveling.

KURBE NEWSOM ZONE 4

Newsom considers his responsibility as a UniServ Director to always be engaging, encouraging, and empowering. Engaging the educators to ensure that there are possibilities for long lasting relationships. Encouraging the educators through trying times and stretching them to reach new goals. “I believe in empowering educators through advocacy, professional development, and mentoring to become part of the voice of education in the state of Arkansas and beyond.”

Allen recently joined the staff of the Arkansas Education Association as a UniServ Director. She understands the importance of connecting and building relationships with the classified and certified members of the association. “My desire is to help our members recognize the importance of exercising their rights through advocacy. We must work and stand together as a collective body to bring about the positive change to public education that we want to see for future generations.” Mitchell is a former 4th Grade Math and Science teacher from Memphis, TN. It was always her childhood dream to be a teacher as they were the people she admired most while growing up. She believes that knowledge is power and to have the opportunity to share that power with others to raise them up was, and still is her dream. “I’ve been an education advocate all my life. My reason for continuing this journey is “Knowledge is Power”, and I believe it gives those who have it, a voice! A voice to speak out on injustices and a voice to change things.” She believes the opportunity to share knowledge lifts us all up.

CORA ALLEN ZONE 5 LARITA BAILEY MITCHELL ZONE 6

KELLY GIVENS

Givens is AEAs ESP/Student Organizer, and says she is here to help locals and chapters feel valued and recognized. “I have served on the AEA Board as the Aspiring Educator President, and I have gained experience through my participation as a member. I am here to serve you as you dedicate your time and efforts in serving your locals and chapters.”