Title: Professor

Company: University of Pittsburgh

Location: Pittsburgh, Penn.

Walking in the footprints of her father, a teacher, Dr. Diane Kirk began in the education field 41 years ago. For the past nine years, she has served as professor at the University of Pittsburgh, providing expertise in job placement and student mentorship, education and care. In five years, Dr. Kirk plans to establish a new program with the university that will motivate young women to become education leaders.

Throughout her work-week, Dr. Krik collaborates with 120 school districts while overseeing a 22-person team, developing workshops and programs, and training superintendents and principals. Specifically, she manages the research and development assistance for conferences, professional development activities, and member school districts for the Tri-State area activities. Prior to joining the University of Pittsburgh, Dr. Kirk served as superintendent of the 1997 to 2006 classes within the Peters Township schools systems, having been an assistant superintendent five years prior.

Dr. Kirk has attributed her success throughout the years to her tenacity, her supportive parents and the desire to continue in her profession. In 1989, she earned a Ph.D. from the University of Pittsburgh, and has since kept abreast of changes in her profession through memberships with AASA, PASA, and NSDEC.