Walter McKenzie

Natalie Odom Pough

Mathematics Educator, The Ron Clark Academy

Having known Walter since 2018, I consider him a beacon of light and a source of hope. Walter is always present and attentive to the needs of those he serves. He is the epitome of consistency and professionalism. ASCD is a better organization because Walter is there. In fact, the world is a better place because Walter is here.

Starr Sackstein

ASCD Champion in Education

Since I met Walter at a New York State ASCD meeting at least a decade ago, he has been an ally and advocate. He is kind, knowledgeable, empathetic, and the kind of person you want in your corner. I'm grateful to know and learn with him as he continually enriches my life. Walter has a way of connecting the right people and presenting opportunities that are sure to have an impact. If you have the chance to work with him, take it.

Lateshia Woodley

Founder, CEO and Lead Dream Builder for Dynamic Achievement Solutions

I've had the honor and privilege to connect and work with Walter through the ASCD Emerging Leader Program. He is a Social Architect that works hard to bring likeminded people together to impact change for children and educators in the K-12 environment all across the United States and abroad! He serves as a guiding light on the ever-changing educational landscape, supporting and uplifting educators as we do the hard but "heart" work of making a difference in the lives of children.

Tiffany Hall

Middle School Principal, Lexington, South Carolina School District Two

Working with Walter McKenzie has been a transformative experience on my educational journey. As a dedicated advocate for the growth of educators, Walter's positive and unwavering support has empowered me to make a meaningful impact in the field of education. His unique approach involves not only offering valuable opportunities for professional development but also ensuring ample time for reflection, fostering a deep understanding of our "why" as educators. Walter's commitment to nurturing and empowering educators has truly made a lasting impression on my professional development, and I am grateful for the invaluable guidance and encouragement he provides.

Shellon Samuels-White

Faculty Assessor, The Mico University College, Kingston, Jamaica

I've had the pleasure of working closely with Walter, who not only embodies the essence of an organized and results-oriented leader but also radiates a calm disposition that is truly commendable. From our first encounter working together as affiliate executive director and subsequently as an emerging leader, Walter consistently demonstrates a remarkable ability to navigate challenges with poise and precision. His support has been invaluable, serving as a guiding light in my professional journey. Walter's mentorship style is not just effective; it's transformative, creating an environment where success is not only achieved but celebrated. I consider myself fortunate to have the opportunity to learn and grow under his leadership.

MaryAnn DeRosa

Professor, Curriculum Design at Relay Graduate School of Education

Walter makes me smile and laugh, with such humility and wisdom, you don't even know he is teaching you something that you will carry on into your way of being. Read his blog "Thinking out Loud" and you'll know what I mean. On my gravestone I could write "pushed into my fullest potential by Walter McKenzie."" His mind and heart work in wondrous ways. He truly listens and understands each individual and coaches and mentors them into becoming who they were meant to be. It is a gift and honor to work with and know Walter.

Gillian Benedetti

Doctoral Student and Graduate Research Assistant at Texas A&M University

Walter is a natural leader who is a committed, responsive, and supportive professional. He uplifts those around him with a deep kindness and invaluable expertise. Walter connects people and causes and navigates through challenging conversations with empathy and poise. His experience in the field speaks for itself; he is a people-centered, results-driven kind of person. Despite his existing vast expertise, he continues to be a life-long learner and remains abreast of the latest research and pedagogy.

Brian Kesel

Assistant Superintendent, West Genessee, New York, School District

As an educator, staying on top of the ever-changing landscape of reform and practice is nearly impossible without strong support and guidance from leaders in the field. Knowing that I can connect with Walter McKenzie in a heartbeat with any questions or wonderings is comforting to say the least. Whether it is in my role as a school district administrator or as member of the NYSASCD Board of Directors, I know Walter is a phone call, text, or email away. He knows the answers, has the experience, or connects me with some the biggest education brains on, quite truthfully, this planet to support me. It is an honor to count Walter as a mentor, a guide, and as a friend.

Jessica Holloway

Innovation Coach at Hamilton County, Tennessee Department of Education

Walter is a beacon of encouragement and support in the ASCD Emerging Leaders program. He has a remarkable ability to recognize and nurture the unique strengths of each participant, inspiring confidence and a belief in one's potential. Walter's genuine enthusiasm for the success of every individual within the program is both motivating and empowering. Walter has proven to be effective in facilitating meaningful connections among educators, administrators, and education enthusiasts from diverse backgrounds. I have been fortunate to witness him in action, orchestrating a transformative experience that has left an indelible mark on my professional journey.

Chaunté Garrett

Superintendent, Rocky Mount Preparatory School

For almost a decade, I've enjoyed the privilege of growing and serving in Walter's legacy. As a leader, seeking growth, he pushed me to lead and step on platforms I would not have envisioned for myself. His ability to see gifts and curate spaces for connection, development, and empowerment as my authentic self has transformed how I show up as a leader and learner. I am extremely honored and grateful for any time I get to journey and build with Walter, a mentor and friend.

Apryl Taylor

Social Studies Program Specialist for the Orange County, Florida Public Schools

It would be difficult to identify a professional who was more reliable than Walter. Throughout the past few years, I have had the pleasure of Walter’s mentorship through the ASCD Emerging Leader and ASCD Champions in Education programs. He is known for being responsive to the needs of those he serves, with efficacy and speed. Further, he is a proactive and personable leader. When Walter sees an opportunity that may benefit someone, he immediately shares it and offers support. His dependability has contributed to a growing community of leaders in education.

Silvia Breiburd

Affiliate Board President, Argentina ASCD

I’ve had the pleasure of working with Walter before, during and after the pandemic and he is a passionate leader and relationship builder whose empathy helps organizations cross thresholds of all types in search of improved results. Committed mentor and skillful problem-solver, Walter can expand the potential of organizations through fostering fruitful collaboration.

Gretchen Oltman

Associate Professor, Creighton University

Walter is integral in helping educators establish themselves as professionals - and to continue growing personally and professionally - throughout their entire careers. My work with him through various ASCD adventures has found him to be a wonderful colleague. I've so enjoyed his inquisitive nature, his intellectual spirit, and his desire to learn. Walter is innovative and willing to take risks. His work is professional, engaging, and I value his wealth of expertise!

Marie Adair

Affiliate Executive Director, New Jersey ASCD

Walter is instrumental in providing the new vision for ASCD and its meaning in terms of supports for educators and kids. Throughout any given year, Walter is our “go to” ASCD connection to provide information and support for our reputable work in the state. We would not be as effective without his service and willingness to always be available and support us.

Lindsay Prendergast

2020 ASCD Emerging Leader

Walter is an innovative leader who seeks to bring out the best in everyone around him! I've been fortunate to collaborate with him on numerous projects and he does everything possible to ensure utmost professionalism, impact, and engagement for all involved. He's dynamic, kind, and supportive. Walter is a visionary leader, too, who pursues continuous growth and improvement and I've learned a great deal from his leadership style.

Charles Gobron

Superintendent, Northborough-Southborough Massachusetts Regional Schools

As the Director of Curriculum and Instruction and later as the Superintendent of Schools, I had the pleasure of collaborating with Walter almost on a daily basis, and I was tremendously impressed with the dedication, enthusiasm, and skill that he brought to his work. He was a champion for integrating technology into instruction, and he was a driving force in improving communication efforts throughout the districts.

Girish Rajput

Enterpise Solutions Director, Arlington Virginia Public Schools

Walter is an exceptional executive leader! Besides being incredibly intelligent, he is considerate and thoughtful. He is a seasoned executive with strong technical, business and leadership skills. He has a tremendous work ethic, a high-level of integrity, and always focuses his attentions on what is best for the organization.

Mary Marotta

Educational Technology Leader, Nashoba Massachusetts Regional Schools

Walter McKenzie is a talented collaborative educator and dedicated professional. I have known and worked with him for over ten years. I was fortunate to receive an invitation from Walter to participate in an ASCD think tank in Washington DC. It was an outstanding two-day event where Walter was able to bring together a group of talented educators to share and collaborate. I was honored to be part of it.

Dennis O'Connor

Instructional Designer, Classroom Connect

Walter helped get me started in online learning way back in the 1990s, where I appreciated his leadership at Connected University. When he asked me to work with him at ASCD, I jumped at the opportunity. I knew that any project that Walter was directing would be one worth my time and interest.

Jessica Bohn

2012 ASCD Emerging Leader

What makes Walter a truly exceptional leader is that he is able to navigate complex relationships with vast internal and external stakeholders across a large organization, and he makes it look easy. He follows through on commitments, thinks outside the box, and balances many time-intensive initiatives. Walter is genuine and innovative, which makes people want to follow, collaborate and perform.

Betty Brito

Affiliate Executive Director, Rhode Island ASCD

Walter provides leadership support and expertise for our affiliate. He is responsive to our requests for assistance, and shares processes that are effective in moving our work forward. Walter is my "go to" guy: organized, resourceful, and competent.

Mary Beth Hertz

Technology Integration Specialist, The Science Leadership Academy at Beeber

I have had the pleasure of connecting both virtually and face to face with Walter and I respect his ability to think deeply about teaching and learning and his skill at asking challenging and thought-provoking questions. He provides a unique and important voice to the education community.

Montgomery Hitschler

Director of Town and School Technology for Rockport Massachusetts

Walter is first and foremost a person who has the ability to bring people together to collaborate in a positive solution thinking manner. He was always looking for the best possible way to accomplish a goal even if that meant having to take a step back first. Working for Walter helped me greatly, in understanding the bigger picture of school systems. I would without hesitation work for him again.

Sharron Zoeller

Affiliate Board President, California ASCD

I want to share a very special thank you, Walter. Your perspective, depth of knowledge, and grasp of the transformative direction of education provides our board with first class support! You are always a steadfast and responsive resource for our affiliate. I want you to know that I very much appreciate your leadership and I look forward to our continued working together.