Melissa Sadorf, PhD

Dr. Melissa Sadorf serves as Executive Director of the National Rural Education Association (NREA), the nation’s leading voice for rural schools, students, and communities. In this role, she partners with state affiliates and national stakeholders to advance policies, resources, and practical supports that strengthen rural education across the country. Melissa is also an Assistant Teaching Professor in Educational Leadership at Northern Arizona University and Director of the NAU Rural Resource Center, where she supports leadership development for rural educators. A former rural superintendent and principal, she brings over three decades of experience in K–12 leadership and advocacy. She is the author of The Resilient Rural Leader (ASCD, 2024) and host of The Rural Scoop podcast.