John became president of the Partnership in 2021, leading the organization through a strategic planning process. Before joining SEP, he served as Deputy State Superintendent at the Ohio Department of Education for five years, previously serving as a senior executive director and associate superintendent for the Department. He was the Associate Executive Director for OASSA overseeing professional development of principals across Ohio and served as Superintendent of Perry Local Schools from 2005 until 2013. He also has been a part-time instructor at the University of Akron in the principal licensure program. 

The long-time education leader is enthusiastic about increasing capacity for quality leadership to prepare students for their next step after high school and is an experienced speaker and facilitator, effectively working with diverse groups. He has a bachelor’s degree from the University of Mount Union, a master’s degree from Cleveland State University, and earned his doctorate at the University of Akron.