The Region 16 Comprehensive Center, serving Alaska, Oregon, and Washington, has new leadership. Bernie Sorenson, of Alaska, joined the Center in July as director, joining co-directors Jeneen Hartley in Oregon and Beth Geiger in Washington.
Sorenson most recently served as a program coordinator for the Alaska Department of Education & Early Development (DEED), working closely with the Center to develop and execute the state service plan. She has a long history in education and school leadership, as well as past Comprehensive Center experience. Additionally, she has a decade of experience in executive coaching and consulting.
"I’m excited to bring new energy to the Center as director. We have a great opportunity to collectively facilitate better educational outcomes for students in Alaska and across our three-state region," Sorenson said.
Sorenson replaces Gerry Briscoe, who oversaw the early organization of the Center in this unique iteration, led collaboratively by SERRC - Alaska's Educational Resource Center and Oregon and Washington's educational service districts.
"I have great confidence in Bernie’s leadership and experience," SERRC Executive Director Sheryl Weinberg said. "She has already been deeply involved with the work and will keep the momentum going."