Delegates to AFSA’s 17th Triennial Constitutional Convention elected a new national leadership team, ushering in a new era focused on advocacy, organizing, and delivering real solutions for the nation’s school leaders and the students they serve.
Mark Cannizzaro, a veteran union leader and former president of CSA, AFSA Local 1 in New York City, was elected National President of AFSA. Widely respected for his political savvy, deep policy knowledge, and steady leadership, Cannizzaro has built a career addressing the most complex challenges facing school administrators—particularly in high-pressure urban districts. A skilled contract negotiator and coalition builder, he is known for crafting practical, student-centered solutions that empower school leaders and strengthen public education nationwide.
Joining him as Executive Vice President is Donis Coronel of AFSA Local 134 in San Diego. A dedicated and experienced organizer, Coronel has worked tirelessly to ensure school leaders have a voice in every forum where decisions are made. From contract bargaining to legislative advocacy, she has spent her career empowering principals, assistant principals, and district administrators—often organizing from the ground up to build collective power.
Karl Perry, of AFSA Local 25 in Baltimore, was elected Secretary-Treasurer. A skilled administrator, Perry successfully reorganized and grew Local 25 into one of the strongest voices for school leaders in the region. He brings a deep, personal commitment to the health, safety, and well-being of administrators. Throughout his career, he has championed improved working conditions, stronger safety standards, and equitable support systems—ensuring that school leaders can focus on student success without sacrificing their own wellness.
In addition, sixteen General Vice Presidents were elected to AFSA’s General Executive Board, which governs the union between conventions. This new board represents a wide range of districts, experiences, and perspectives—united in their mission to protect the rights of school leaders and advance the profession.
This leadership transition comes at a pivotal moment for public education. Across the country, school administrators are navigating evolving and urgent challenges—from the student mental health crisis and staffing shortages to budget constraints and the rapid integration of new technologies. The new leadership team is poised to elevate AFSA’s voice on the national stage, grow union membership, and strengthen its presence in local districts.
The convention also marked the end of service for two longtime national officers. AFSA President Leonard Pugliese and Executive Vice President Lauran Waters-Cherry stepped down after years of steadfast leadership. Their contributions helped expand AFSA’s reach, sharpen its policy advocacy, and elevate the voice of school leaders in national education debates.
Newly Elected General Vice Presidents include:
- Brian Galbraith – Association of Supervisory & Administrative School Personnel
- Carey Cunningham – St. Louis Association of School Administrators
- Caroline Satoda – United Administrators of San Francisco
- Carver Farrow – St. Thomas/St. John Educational Administrators' Association
- Christine Handy – Montgomery County Association of Administrators and Principals
- Clarence Allen – City Association of School Administrators
- Diane Hauser – Boston Association of Supervisors and Administrators
- Elda Perez-Mejia – Yonkers Council of Administrators
- Fran DiFiore – Connecticut State Federation of School Administrators
- Henry Rubio – Council of School Administrators
- Jody Covington – Buffalo Council of School Administrators
- Kia Banks – Chicago Principals' Association
- Luis Orengo – Educadores Puertorriqueños en Acción
- Moira Coogan – Denver School Leaders Association
- Richard Jackson – Council of School Officers
- Victor Cristofaro – The Hartford Principals' and Supervisors' Association
