Supporters: Dr. Mike Ward & Bishop Hope Morgan Ward

Dr. Mike Ward is a three-time graduate of NC State; he completed his undergraduate degree in 1977, his master’s in occupational education in 1981 and a doctorate in education administration and supervision in 1993. Ward has worked as a teacher, coach, high school principal and local superintendent, a position in which he was recognized as North Carolina’s Superintendent of the Year. From 1997 to 2004, he served two terms as North Carolina’s state superintendent of public instruction and and was elected president of the Council of Chief State School Officers. Currently a member of the graduate faculty in educational leadership at the University of Southern Mississippi, Ward also serves as an educational consultant to state and local education leaders on matters related to leadership, school improvement, strategic planning and assessment. Ward has been an active donor to the College of Education since 1990 and currently serves on the college’s advisory board.

“NC State has meant so many things to me, but above all, my university has opened the world to me and provided me with opportunities that I couldn’t have imagined as a youngster. That’s the best legacy of this incredible institution for me and for all who come here.”