Rick Southerland is a native Wilmingtonian who attended New Hanover County Public Schools from kindergarten through graduation and is a seasoned educator of 30 years, having served as a certified teacher in North Carolina, Georgia, Nevada, Maryland, and the District of Columbia, as well as an administrator in nonprofit organizations and higher education. He has also served as an Associate Professor of Dance Education overseeing state credentialing for teachers, a researcher and writer for national teacher assessments and national standards, a consultant for higher education program accreditation, and on the boards of national organizations, including as Past President of the National Dance Education Organization (NDEO).

Rick’s work and advocacy focus on what matters most - ensuring students are safe, supported, and able to reach their full potential. An unwavering supporter of public schools, Rick believes that success begins with meeting each child’s basic needs and is sustained through collaboration among families, educators, community partners, and government, working together to build a healthier, stronger community for all.

As a member of the New Hanover County Board of Education, Rick will be a strong advocate for restoring the promise of public education by elevating educators’ voices in the curriculum, ensuring livable wages for New Hanover County educators, and supporting meaningful professional development grounded in their expertise because real progress happens when we work together for our children.