DARKE COUNTY - From local teacher to Ohio State Board of Education member, Darryl Mehaffie is a well-respected individual who serves as a key supporter of the region. A member of the Edison Board of Trustees for 14 years, Mehaffie recently was appointed by Ohio Governor John Kasich to serve on the Ohio State Board of Education. Mehaffie will serve the remaining two years of an at-large member from Delaware.

Mehaffie, retired in 1996, after teaching fifth and sixth grade students at Northmont City Schools in Englewood for 30 years. Mehaffie felt the need to give back to the community and has since served on many boards and committees throughout the years. He is active in politics and currently serves as the Ohio Republican State Central Committeeman for the 5th District serving Miami, Montgomery, Preble, and Darke counties.

During a recent interview, Mehaffie noted that current Ohio Association of Community College members are taking a different attitude when approaching the governor for support.

“We approached him not with our hands out asking for money but out to shake his hand, saying, ‘Governor, what can we do in our community college systems to help create jobs?’” he said. “We have a good working relationship with the governor’s office and his staff.”

Mehaffie feels as though Edison is taking the appropriate steps to provide students with the opportunity to obtain quality careers throughout the region.

“Edison is doing exactly what needs to be done; working with Upper Valley Career Center, area high schools, and workforce development,” said Darryl. He believes that Edison’s president, Dr. Cristobal Valdez, is working hard to turn programs around to make them more effective for students.

Mehaffie and Dr. Valdez recently attended a FUTURES conference this past month in Orlando, Fla. The week-long conference dealt primarily with work force development and taught participants how to become good trustees for community colleges.

By partnering with local employers in the region Mehaffie feels that Edison is ahead of the game and is serving as an educational leader. Mehaffie is proud to be a part of Edison stating, “the college has great leadership, outstanding faculty and tight reigns on the budget.”

With a passion for Edison, the arts, and teaching Mehaffie hopes to continue being a vocal supporter for the community.