The Middle States Association Commissions on Elementary and Secondary Schools (MSA-CESS) congratulates Timothy Purnell, Ed.D., CEO of NEXT for AUTISM, on his appointment as a new commissioner.
Purnell is one of six commissioners recently appointed to MSA-CESS.
“I am pleased to welcome Dr. Purnell to the Middle States Commissions,” said Lisa Marie McCauley, Ed.D., president of the MSA-CESS. “He brings a proven record of leadership in education, and his work in mental health, trauma and learning differences will help ensure that Middle States accreditation continues to reflect and meet the needs of all schools and students.”
Prior to joining NEXT for AUTISM, Purnell served as superintendent of the Somerville public school district. He implemented the first, district-wide, trauma-sensitive initiative in the state of New Jersey and launched multiple-disabilities classes, learning differences, and life skills programs.
Purnell was named a National Superintendent of the Year in 2016 and was recognized as a Highest Rated Professor in the Nation for his class on mental health. He was also one of 100 educators invited to President Obama’s 2014 ConnectED Initiative.
Purnell holds a doctorate in leadership from Seton Hall University.
“I am honored to be appointed to the Middle States Commissions,” said Purnell. “I look forward to using my expertise to help ensure Middle States remains the leader in accreditation and that schools continue to benefit from an accreditation process that promotes strategic planning and continuous growth and improvement.”
