Bloomington, IN—The 2005 Phi Delta Kappa International (PDK) general vote by the professional membership has resulted in the election of Dr. John Kenneth Amato to the office of President-Elect. PDK serves the education community by promoting quality education through research, service, and leadership. Amato will begin his term as President-Elect effective July 1, 2005.

"Dr. Amato possesses a wealth of experience in PDK. This experience, coupled with new ideas, will be important for our future, as Dr. Amato serves first as President-Elect and then as President of PDK International," stated Dr. William Bushaw, PDK Executive Director. "We're looking forward to his leadership."

Since becoming a PDK member nearly 20 years ago, Amato has distinguished himself as a strong leader at both the international and local chapter levels. His previous positions have included international vice-president, district representative, and president of the Jersey Shore Chapter at Monmouth University. When asked about his election to the office of President-Elect, Amato said, “ I am very proud and honored to be elected the International President-Elect of PDK. I will meet, then overcome the challenges set forth before me and PDK. Setting high expectations for myself and our organization will be the guiding light into the new millennium and help us maintain our prominence as the leading professional organization promoting public education in the world. Courage, persistence, and leadership to blaze new trails will reap dividends for our children, teachers, and education system. It is time to stand tall and be counted. Life is not easy. We must persevere and have confidence in ourselves, our organization, and our schools. As Henry Ford said, 'Obstacles are those frightful things you see when you take your eyes off the GOAL.' Our goals are clear so let's stay focused, meet the challenges, and forge ahead with new opportunities for the 21st century.” Amato will serve on the PDK International Board in the position of President-Elect for two years, after which he will assume the office of PDK International President on July 1, 2007.

Phi Delta Kappa International, a member-based professional association of 66,000 educators strong, has been committed to leadership, service, and research in education since its inception in 1906—nearly 100 years ago. Composed of educators at all levels, member chapters are active throughout the United States, Canada, and abroad. As an association, PDK works to promote quality education, with particular emphasis on publicly supported education, as essential to the development and maintenance of a democratic way of life. The organization supports educators through publications, research, and professional development opportunities.