S05E01 - New Voices in Rural Leadership: Introducing Bill Chapman & Melissa Sadorf

About this episode

The episode introduces new co-hosts Dr. Bill Chapman and Dr. Melissa Sadorf, discussing the future of the National Rural Education Association and upcoming events.

In this episode of The Rural Voice, host Dr. Chris Silver welcomes listeners back with an update on the National Rural Education Association (NREA) and its exciting period of transition. Chris introduces his new leadership and co-hosts, Dr. Bill Chapman and Dr. Melissa Sadorf, both of whom bring deep experience in education and leadership. The discussion highlights the future direction of NREA, emphasizing opportunities for growth, collaboration, and stronger advocacy for rural schools and communities. Bill and Melissa share their professional backgrounds and vision for strengthening NREA’s role in supporting educators, leaders, and students in rural contexts. We thank Dr. Allen Pratt for his service. The cohosts shift to looking ahead and the upcoming National Forum to Advance Rural Education (NFARE) in Salt Lake City, where educators and leaders will gather to explore innovative practices, share research, and build partnerships. The conversation conveys a sense of momentum and optimism for NREA’s next chapter, underscoring the importance of strong leadership and community engagement in shaping the future of rural education.

People in this episode

Guests: Dr Melissa Sadorf, Dr Bill Chapman

Topics covered

• rural education
• leadership
• advocacy
• community engagement

Keywords

• NREA
• National Forum to Advance Rural Education
• Salt Lake City
• educators
• collaboration

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: New Voices in Rural Leadership, The Rural Voice

Places: Salt Lake City

More episodes of National Rural Education Association Official Podcast

• S06E07 - Rural Schools at the Front Edge of Ai, an interview with Dr. Beth Rabbitt · June 2, 2026 · 42 min
• S05E06 - Building Strong Readers in Rural Schools: An Interview with Ms. Tracy Kingsley and Ms. Ashley Wood · April 24, 2026 · 38 min
• S05E05 - Rethinking Success: Music Education, Community, and the Power of Rural Schools. An Interview with Dr. Daniel Johnson · March 31, 2026 · 39 min
• S05E04 - School Choice in Rural America: What’s at Stake. An interview with Dr. Preston Green. · December 15, 2025 · 35 min
• S05E03 - Making Connections in Rural Math: Jeff Granrud, NREA Teacher of the Year · October 10, 2025 · 24 min
• S05E02 - Building Momentum: Anticipating the NFARE 2025 · October 3, 2025 · 31 min