APS Superintendent Meria Carstarphen is among Atlanta’s Most Admired CEOs

By: Jasmine Mosley

On Thursday, Aug. 25, Atlanta Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Meria J. Carstarphen was honored by the Atlanta Business Chronicle as one of the “Most Admired CEOs” in the city of Atlanta. Under the education category, Dr. Carstarphen ranked among 50 leaders of renowned institutions. Other honorees included Mark Becker (Georgia State University), Bud Peterson (Georgia Institute of Technology), Dr. Valerie Montgomery Rice (Morehouse School of Medicine), and Stuart F. Gulley, Ph.D. (Woodward Academy).

Over 500 guests attended the ceremony, which was held inside the Georgia Aquarium Oceans Ballroom. Each nominee received special recognition and was asked to deliver brief remarks. Dr. Carstarphen cheerfully engaged the audience with the “APS chant” and acknowledged her fellow colleagues. She also highlighted her mentee and 2016 B.E.S.T. Academy valedictorian, Qwantayvious Stiggers, as a person whom she admires and seeks advice.

The “Most Admired CEO” awards ceremony is held annually and recognizes established metro Atlanta leaders who are committed to excellence and have a unique approach to leadership. These leaders also have a demonstrated record of community outreach.

The 2016 class of nominated CEOs were chosen by the community during a special voting process held this past summer.