Dr. Carmen Ayala MBA ’87 named Illinois' Superintendent of Education

February 26, 2019



With the strong support of Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker, the Illinois State Board of Education named Dr. Carmen Ayala MBA ’​​​​​​87 as the 30th State Superintendent of Education, making her the first woman and first person of color to serve as the permanent superintendent.



Dr. Ayala has more than 30 years of education experience, most recently serving as the Superintendent of the Berwyn North School District. She previously served as an Assistant Superintendent in Plainfield District 202, Director in Community Consolidated School District 300, and as an Assistant Superintendent, Director of Bilingual Services, and a teacher at the Aurora East School District. She began her career at Chicago Public Schools, serving as a teacher for five years. 



"I'm honored to serve as our state's Superintendent of Education and grateful to the board members for placing their trust in me," said Dr. Ayala. "Governor Pritzker has made it clear that education will be a top priority for the new administration, and I look forward to our work ahead. Together, I know we can break down barriers to opportunity and ensure that students of all races, backgrounds, income levels and zip codes receive a strong education in Illinois."



Read more: State Board of Education Names Dr. Carmen I. Ayala Superintendent