Dr. Dana T. Bedden joined McPherson & Jacobson in 2025.
He concluded his impactful tenure as Superintendent of Schools on June 30, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of over 20 years in transformative educational leadership as a Superintendent. His leadership was particularly noteworthy during challenging periods when he adeptly addressed fiscal challenges, improved academic performance, and negotiated critical contracts, consistently delivering budget surpluses and enhancing fiscal ratings. Renowned for his results-oriented approach, Dr. Bedden consistently elevated academic performance, fostered collaboration among diverse groups, and championed community and business engagement. His extensive experience spans critical areas, including standards-based practices, human resource management, fiscal oversight, and strategic partnerships, all underpinned by a commitment to serving the whole student. Through empowering staff, enriching academic programs, ensuring equity of access, and bolstering career and technical education, Dr. Bedden has tirelessly worked to prepare students for college, careers, and life. For over three decades, he has held leadership roles at various levels—building leader, central office, regional, or district superintendent—in diverse school systems across Pennsylvania, Washington, D.C., Georgia, Texas, and Virginia. These districts have student populations ranging from 5,300 to 200,000, enabling him to oversee thousands of employees while expertly managing multi-million dollar budgets.
Beyond his direct administrative roles, Dr. Bedden has been instrumental in shaping the next generation of educational leaders. He served as a founding instructor in the AASA Superintendent’s Academy and is an adjunct faculty member at several universities, teaching courses related to school law, principal and superintendent preparation, leadership, and effective teaching and learning practices. Dr. Bedden boasts an impressive educational background, including a doctorate from Virginia Tech, a master’s degree from Penn State, and a bachelor’s degree from the University of Florida, complemented by leadership certificates from the University of Pennsylvania, Harvard University, and Georgetown University. Dr. Bedden’s career, which began as a middle school teacher, also includes roles as a high school principal and director of athletics, alongside extensive service on numerous local, state, and national committees, boards, and professional associations. He has established himself as a presenter, speaker, and advisor, solidifying his reputation as a highly respected and influential voice in education.