Neuhaus Education Center (NEC) is pleased to announce the appointment of Katherine Smith as its next President and Chief Executive Officer. Smith will officially assume the role on April 7, 2025, succeeding Dr. Tracy White Weeden, who will retire at the end of August 2025 after nearly a decade of transformative leadership.
NEC is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting Literacy for All through professional development and certifications for educators, resources for families impacted by learning differences, and literacy classes for adults.
Dr. White Weeden has served as NEC’s President and CEO since July 2015, driving significant growth and impact. Under her leadership, NEC expanded its reach and strengthened its reputation as a leader in evidence-based literacy education. Her tenure saw NEC’s influence extend nationally, with initiatives and partnerships reaching communities in Alabama, New Mexico, Alaska, and beyond. Through strategic collaborations and high-quality programming, Dr. White Weeden has made a lasting difference in classrooms and communities across the country.
“Leading Neuhaus has been the honor of a lifetime,” said Dr. White Weeden. “Neuhaus stands at the forefront of literacy advocacy, and I know Katherine’s expertise, vision, and passion for education will propel Neuhaus into its next chapter of impact.”
Smith brings more than two decades of experience in K-12 strategy, philanthropy, and leadership to NEC. A former classroom teacher and dyslexia consultant, she most recently led the Houston ISD Foundation, where she strengthened the organization’s financial sustainability and elevated its brand recognition.
“I am honored to step into this role at Neuhaus Education Center, an organization with a profound commitment to literacy and educational excellence,” said Smith. “The mission of Neuhaus aligns deeply with my passion for ensuring all students have access to the resources they need to succeed. I look forward to collaborating with the Neuhaus team, educators, and stakeholders to continue making a meaningful impact.”
Smith and Dr. White Weeden will work closely during a transition period to ensure a smooth handover of leadership. Dr. White Weeden will continue to serve as a keynote speaker and ambassador for NEC until her official retirement on August 31, 2025.
Smith holds a B.A. in English from the University of South Alabama and an M.Ed. in Educational Policy and Leadership from the University of Texas at Arlington. She also completed the Executive Fellowship for School Administrators (REEP) at Rice University and is currently pursuing an MFA from the University of Houston. Smith holds multiple certifications from the Texas Education Agency, including Principal EC-12, Special Education EC-12, English as a Second Language EC-12, and Generalist/Core Subjects EC-8.
For 45 years, the Neuhaus Education Center (NEC) has been a leader in overcoming obstacles to literacy, including dyslexia. NEC is nationally recognized for its evidence-based approach to the Science of Reading. Its professional instruction for educators, referral and resource services for families, and classes for adult learners unlock a brighter future of Literacy for All. Visit www.neuhaus.org to learn more.
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