Community is the most powerful member benefit that associations have. And that’s exactly what Ronn Nozoe, CEO of the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP), is working to build.
Ronn’s background is deeply rooted in education—from classroom teacher to principal to Deputy Assistant Secretary for Policy and Programs at the U.S. Department of Education. Today, he leads NASSP with a clear mission: support school leaders in real time, not just once a year at a conference.
In this episode, host Christine Shaw talks with Ronn about how associations can create meaningful, ongoing connections among members—especially at a time when so many are feeling isolated. They discuss NASSP’s peer-to-peer engagement networks, the shift toward “hyper-personalized” professional learning, and new approaches to advocacy that amplify member voices in impactful ways.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
- The power of peer-to-peer networks and what makes them work.
- What “hyper-personalized” learning looks like and how to implement it.
- How to elevate member stories to influence policy and drive advocacy.
- How to use digital platforms to build connections amongst members.
- The unique approach to seeking connection employed by the younger generation.
About our guest:
Ronn Nozoe is a lifelong educator and the CEO of the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP), where he leads efforts to transform education through strong and supportive school leadership. Prior to NASSP, he served as associate executive director and interim executive director at ASCD, and earlier as deputy assistant secretary for policy and programs at the U.S. Department of Education, focusing on teacher quality, school safety, and equity for rural, migrant, and Indigenous students. In his home state of Hawai‘i, Ronn served as deputy state superintendent, where he elevated principals’ voices and helped increase achievement and graduation rates statewide. His career began at the school level as a teacher, vice principal, principal, and district superintendent. Ronn holds both his bachelor’s degree in English and master’s degree in education from the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa.
Resources:
Recommended Reading: Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us
Explore more on membership momentum and how engaging today can lead to growth tomorrow.
Visit: AssociationAdviser.com
Connect with NASSP & Ronn Nozoe:
LinkedIn: @NASSP & Ronn Nozoe
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