Education Foundation Taps New Leader

Veteran community leader Susan Scott has been tapped to lead the Education Foundation of Sarasota County.

Scott was named the nonprofit’s new executive director at a special meeting of the board of directors. She starts her new post on Jan. 9.

"As we approach our 25th anniversary, we are all enthusiastic about the selection of Susan Scott as executive director,” said board Chair Mike Bryant.  “The board is committed to the vision of expanding the Education Foundation's presence and growing the impact our programs and financial support have on the school children of Sarasota County.”

Scott will replace Cindy Kaiser, who resigned as executive director in October because of family health issues.

Scott's background includes:

• Sarasota County government’s deputy administrator from 2003 to 2011, overseeing financial planning, human resources and technology.  
• Vice president of institutional advancement for Ringling College of Art and Design, 1998-2003.  
• Market area president for First Union Bank in Manatee and Sarasota counties, 1988-1998, relocating to the area after 17 years as a bank manager in Louisville, Ky.  

"I am truly honored and grateful to have been selected as executive director,” Scott said. “I believe that great schools are essential to a community’s strength and to a better future for all children and that the Education Foundation plays a vital role in supporting the great schools we have in Sarasota County."

Dr. Carlotta Cooley, a well-known area educator and past member of the foundation’s board of directors, has served as interim executive director since Oct. 31.