Leadership UPDATE: Incoming Board of Directors

Mark Hubbard

President, Paragon Furniture, Inc.
Member since 1985

Over those years, I have accumulated valuable experience operating within the educational market, all of which imbue me with a practical understanding of our industry's challenges and opportunities. Since 2004, our business has quintupled in revenue and our product portfolio is arguably the broadest and relevant among loose furniture providers. Activating and sustaining that vision required a plan and profuse amounts of physical, mental, and emotional energy that I plan to execute as EDmarket’s Chair.

Jolene Levin

Director, NorvaNivel
Member since 2017

I’m extremely passionate about EDmarket and the impact it can make within the education space as a connecting body between all stakeholders. I am passionate about contributing my time to anything that is for the betterment if future education. I believe in the EDmarket’s value and approach to content sharing and industry connections. I believe that my passion and contribution to the industry can add value to the association and I’m willing to roll my sleeves up and do all I can to drive this industry forward. I appreciate this opportunity provides for collaboration across all stakeholders.

Darlene Akers

President, Akers Business Solutions
Member since 2006

I have learned that a well-functioning board of directors is essential to the health and sustainability of any organization. With my experience on the Board of Directors for BSA, I found being a vital part of this team that I provided insights and guidance to the organization to help it reach its objectives and goals. I plan on bringing my experience and knowledge to the Education Market Association Board of Directors and be a valued asset to the organization.

Deborah L. Kerr

Superintendent, St. Francis School District
Member since 2020

John Gardner

President & CEO, Palmer Hamilton, LLC
Member since 2012

I have a strong finance and accounting background and I look forward to serving as your treasurer again.

Robert Dickson

Chief Information Officer, Wichita Public Schools
Member since 2022

I'm excited to serve and help EDmarket for it's future.

Duane H. Frager

Vice President of Operations and Supply Chain, UnitedForGrowth LLC
Member since 2014

I’ve had prior had EDmarket leadership experience, so it’s an honor to server on the Board. My extensive background in both Distribution and Manufacturing leverages my experience within this industry. I'm looking forward to contributing to strengthening the relationships and understanding between the vendors and the dealers while bridging the gap for other sectors in the industry.

Jessica Morales

Director, Curriculum and Instruction, Chula Vista Esd
Member since 2022

I'm happy to serve and looking forward to the work.

Steve Samikkannu

General Manager, AmTab Manufacturing Corporation
Member since 2006

I have served EDmarket before in leadership roles and I am very familiar with our strategy and mission. I am very passionate about our work and the meaningful impact we can have together. We have a lot of work to do ahead of us together and I am confident that we will be equal to the task.