As superintendent of North Carolina’s largest school district, Peter C. Gorman, Ed.D., has made quite the impression. He leads Charlotte-Mecklenburg’s 157 schools, its 138,000 students and its 18,500 staff members. A true change agent, Dr. Gorman’s immediate attention to improvement has resulted in increased student performance in the areas of biology, history, civics and economics.

Dr. Gorman received his bachelor’s degree in elementary education from MSU, followed by a master’s degree and a doctorate from University of Central Florida. He sits on the MSU College of Education’s Dean’s Advisory Board.

Shortly after arriving at Charlotte-Mecklenburg in July 2006, Dr. Gorman created the Achievement Zone, which provides extra resources to 11 low-performing schools. He has rallied support to improve all schools within the district, as evidenced by the passing of a $500 million construction bond – an initiative that failed in past attempts.

Dr. Gorman’s visionary thinking resulted in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools Strategic Plan 2010, which calls for academic accountability and excellence. With transparency and fiscal responsibility at the root of his administration, Dr. Gorman has built the trust of parents and teachers, which has resulted in a dramatic change in thought and improved morale.

With a strong demand for excellence, Dr. Gorman is a leader in the finest sense. Before arriving at Charlotte-Mecklenburg, Dr. Gorman served five years as superintendent of Tustin Unified School District, Tustin, Calif. Thanks to Dr. Gorman’s dedication to school improvement and his ability to foster community support, the district experienced its first-ever successful bond general election, which resulted in $108 million for school improvements.

Dr. Gorman is a pillar within the Charlotte-Mecklenburg community, which inspired Leadership Charlotte’s 2007 Newcomer of the Year Award. Additionally, in 2007, the Public Relations Society of America presented Gorman with its Pegasus Award, which is given to an individual – outside the public relations profession – who demonstrates superior knowledge and use of public relations to foster improved community relations. As an example, Dr. Gorman regularly contributes columns to The Charlotte Observer, The Charlotte Weekly and the Charlotte Parents.