SMilesTV's video: SMilesTV features Ian Buchanan EdD Founder CEO Nia Education Group chats with SMiles revised

A native of E. St. Louis, Illinois, Dr. Ian Buchanan currently serves as Founder and CEO of Nia Education Group,an executive coaching and consulting firm dedicated to helping leaders become their greatest leadership selves. In addition, “Dr. Ian” recently served as Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction (or Chief Academic Officer) in The School District of University City (Missouri). Prior to his current roles, Dr. Buchanan worked in the Memphis community, serving as Managing Director of the Parent Leadership and Advocacy Institute (PLAI), an organization committed to empowering parents to influence change in schools and districts. He also played a role in the development of The Memphis Lift, an organization committed to parent empowerment and engagement. Also, during his tenure in Memphis, Buchanan served as Director of Strategic Partnerships for the Achievement School District, a comprehensive, “turnaround” school district. He also played a role in the development of TheMemphis Lift, an organization committed to parent empowerment and engagement. Also, during his tenure in Memphis, Buchanan served as Director of Strategic Partnerships for the Achievement School District, a comprehensive, “turnaround” school district. Over a span of nearly three decades, Ian has served in a number of roles, including high school mathematics teacher, GED teacher, ACT tutor, college admissions officer, National Science Foundation Fellow, assistant principal, principal, and Teach For America Managing Director. He has received numerous awards and recognitions, including the MASSP Consummate Professional of the Year Award, the St. Louis American Salute to Excellence in Education Award, and the Teach for America Principal of the Year Award. He is highly regarded around the country for his passion and commitment to empowering our communities.Ian has been married for more than two decades to his wife, Carmen. They have one child, Nia, an HBCU alum and elementary school teacher in Atlanta, Georgia.