DeeAnn Aull, serving for the last 10 years as assistant executive director for government relations, communications and education services of the Missouri National Education Association, began her new position as MNEA’s executive director Aug. 1.
“DeeAnn will continue to be a great asset to Missouri NEA,” says MNEA Pres. Charles E. Smith, a teacher on leave from the Center School District in Kansas City. “She has the knowledge, skills, experience and expertise to help lead us into the future. The position of executive director gives her an added opportunity to share her vast talents and leadership skills.”
Aull’s 40-year career in education began as a kindergarten teacher in the Morgan County R-II School District. A move to Kentucky brought her into the field of gifted education, where she coordinated and taught a gifted and talented program that earned statewide recognition. That program’s success led her to a position as computer and technology coordinator with the Kentucky Department of Education.
While working for the Kentucky Department of Education, Aull attracted the attention of executives at IBM, who brought her on board as an education consultant with direct responsibility for training and marketing support. She developed software concepts, educator-training modules and marketing plans for IBM’s PC launch into the education marketplace.
Aull returned to Missouri in 1986 and began working on behalf of her fellow educators in professional education associations. Throughout her 14 years with the Missouri State Teachers Association, she served as the professional development director, Kansas City area field service coordinator, legislative director and associate executive director of public affairs.
In 2000, Aull joined MNEA as teaching and learning director and then served as assistant executive director between 2006 and 2016. During her tenure as MNEA’s assistant executive director, she managed state communications and public relations as well as the association’s public policy, legislative and political work at both the state and national levels.
During her career with MNEA, Aull has worked with countless coalitions to protect and advance pro-education efforts in Missouri. She is widely respected as a formidable and effective advocate and says she is honored to have the opportunity to lead MNEA into an exciting new chapter.
