Talisa L. Dixon, Ed.D.
About Company
Dr. Talisa Dixon, a distinguished educator and advocate for equitable educational opportunities, recently retired as the Superintendent and CEO of Columbus City Schools, Ohio’s largest district, after 28 years in public education. Her career began in Akron Public Schools as a social studies teacher, and she later transitioned to administrative roles in Columbus City Schools. In her capacity as Superintendent starting in 2019, Dr. Dixon prioritized community engagement, launching a 100-day tour to hear from students, staff, and families. She established the Departments of Engagement, Equity, and Transformation, appointing the district’s first Chief Equity Officer to ensure fair opportunities for all students. Her leadership was crucial in navigating the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. She also focused on strategic initiatives, including the five-year plan, Power of One, which aimed to empower every student, and the Portrait of a Graduate, which outlined the skills and attributes students should possess upon graduation.
Dr. Dixon is also known for her partnerships, including the **Columbus Promise** initiative, providing free tuition for CCS seniors at Columbus State Community College, and the **STEAMM Rising** program to cultivate future educators and talent. An active community leader, she has served on boards for various organizations and as Superintendent in Residence at The Ohio State University. Previously, Dr. Dixon was the Deputy Superintendent in Saginaw, Michigan, and the Superintendent of Cleveland Heights-University Heights (CH-UH), where she instituted significant policies promoting educational equity and successfully addressed declining enrollment trends.
Her leadership has garnered numerous accolades, including an Honorary Doctorate of Human Letters from Otterbein University, the American Heart Association’s National Administrator of the Year award, and recognition from Columbus Business First. Dr. Dixon holds multiple degrees, including a Doctorate in Educational Administration from the University of Akron.
