Dr. Boyd Bradbury Takes the Helm as MREA Board President

Dr. Boyd Bradbury Takes the Helm as MREA Board President

Dr. Boyd Bradbury, a loyal advocate for rural education with over three decades of dedicated service, steps into the role of Board President at the Minnesota Rural Education Association (MREA). His journey from rural student to educator has uniquely positioned him to champion equitable educational opportunities across the state.

At Minnesota State University Moorhead (MSUM), where Dr. Bradbury serves as Chair of the Department of Leadership and Learning, his role intersects profoundly with MREA’s mission. MSUM’s long-standing commitment to training educators aligns seamlessly with MREA’s advocacy for rural schools. Dr. Bradbury’s leadership at MSUM has fostered initiatives like 18 Online, which supports rural teachers in achieving highly qualified status, illustrating his proactive approach to educational equity.

Dr. Bradbury’s involvement with MREA spans more than two and a half decades, culminating in his recent tenure on the Board of Directors and now assuming the Presidency. His passion for rural education is deeply personal, rooted in his own upbringing and professional trajectory. He believes wholeheartedly that every child, regardless of their zip code, deserves access to quality education. This belief fuels his commitment to MREA’s role as the Voice for Greater Minnesota Education, advocating tirelessly for legislative reforms and equitable resource allocation.

As President, Dr. Bradbury aims to tackle the pressing issue of teacher shortages in rural Minnesota. He advocates for improved teacher compensation and meaningful pension reforms to retain and attract educators. His vision extends beyond immediate challenges to nurturing a sustainable pipeline of educators, whether through mentorship programs or early outreach initiatives.

Outside his educational pursuits, Dr. Bradbury enjoys outdoor activities like hunting, fishing and hiking. He values travel and literature, which enrich his perspectives on education and leadership.

Reflecting on his journey and aspirations, Bradbury emphasizes the profound impact educators can have on rural communities. He urges members to recognize the collective power in shaping young lives positively, underscoring the pivotal role MREA plays in advancing rural education.

“Boyd is an exceptional rural advocate and committed leader,” says MREA Executive Director Darrin Strosahl. “He’s proven a steadfast commitment to empowering rural educators and advocating for transformative change in Minnesota’s educational landscape. The Board and MREA team are fortunate to have Boyd’s leadership and expertise helping direct the efforts of the organization.”

Dr. Bradbury’s Board Presidency began January 1, 2025 and will run through the end of the year. He steps into the role of Past-President Michelle Rinke-Koch of Menahga Public Schools. The MREA Board will meet February 4-5 in Morris, Minnesota to discuss advocacy efforts, operational updates and future goals in addition to electing its Executive Committee.