ISTE CEO Don Knezek to Step Down in September 2012

Washington, D.C. (February 28, 2012)—After more than 10 years leading the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE), Chief Executive Officer, Donald G. Knezek, PhD, CAE, has announced his decision to step down as of September 30, 2012. 

Knezek became CEO of ISTE in 2002. His leadership and stewardship have been instrumental in growing the organization's size, fiscal health, and influence in education policy, advocacy, international collaboration and partnerships, and virtual communities.

During Knezek's tenure as Chief Executive, ISTE:

• Completed a merger with the governing organization of the National Educational Computing Conference (NECC) in a way that strengthened both the conference and ISTE. NECC, now known as ISTE's annual conference and exposition, is the most comprehensive education technology event in the world.
• Established a headquarters office in Washington, D.C., where Knezek became a respected voice and leading authority on education issues and positioned ISTE as a policy and advocacy champion for digital age learning, teaching, and education leadership in the halls of U.S. Congress, the White House, and various agencies and entities of federal, state, and local governments.
• Increased global collaborations and partnerships, working together with members, educators, policy makers, education ministries, agencies, and non-governmental organizations from around the globe to transform education for all learners. Knezek currently serves on the governing board of the Institute for Information Technologies in Education (IITE), part of the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). The governing board of IITE consists of 11 members chosen for their eminence in the field.
• Refreshed and expanded its NETS, a comprehensive framework for global digital age learning, teaching, and leadership. The NETS have been widely adopted in the United States and globally.

In announcing his decision, Knezek noted, "I'm so proud of what we've accomplished with a dedicated staff and outstanding volunteer leadership on behalf of better opportunities and access for all the world's learners." 

ISTE President Holly Jobe commented, "Don's extraordinary vision and leadership helped establish ISTE as the premier educational technology organization and his efforts have positively impacted students and teachers throughout the world. The board appreciates his tireless effort and commitment to realizing ISTE's mission."

A search committee will be formed with the anticipated appointment of a new CEO by September 2012.

Contact: Steve Abbott, Senior Corporate Relations Officer, sabbott@iste.org, 1.202.861.7777

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The International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE ®) is the premier membership association for educators and education leaders engaged in advancing excellence in learning and teaching through the innovative and effective use of technology in PK-12 and teacher education. Home to ISTE's annual conference and exposition and the widely adoptedNETS, ISTE represents more than 100,000 professionals worldwide. http://www.iste.org.