Gov.-elect Abigail Spanberger announced Tuesday that long-time educator Jeffery Smith would be Virginia’s next secretary of education.

Smith, who now leads the Virginia Air & Space Science Center, has over 32 years of experience in public education, including 15 years as a superintendent. He led Hampton City Schools for eight years and served seven years as superintendent in the Town of West Point. 

His career also includes work in several Virginia school divisions and teaching roles at Old Dominion University and the College of William & Mary. 

“As a mother of three daughters in Virginia’s public schools, I understand the importance of making sure Virginia’s students are set up for success and the invaluable foundation that the Commonwealth’s schools provide for our next generation of leaders,” Spanberger said in a statement. “Dr. Smith’s decades of experience leading districts in Virginia gives the Commonwealth’s students a champion who I know will work tirelessly on their behalf — and I’m excited to work alongside him to strengthen our schools.” 

Once confirmed by the Virginia General Assembly, which will be under Democratic control in the House and Senate, Smith will guide education agencies and key state learning institutions, including the Virginia Department of Education, the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia, museums and cultural institutions, and boards and foundations. 

In 2020, the General Assembly recognized Smith for his service and academic achievements during his time with Hampton City Schools, among other local, state and national recognitions. Smith was one of four finalists for AASA National Superintendent of the Year and recipient of the Virginia Department of Education’s Mary Peake Award for Education Equity. 

While at Hampton, Smith was involved with two notable accomplishments: strengthening the division’s dual-enrollment program with the Virginia Peninsula Community College and expanding career pathways at the Academies of Hampton. 

“It is an honor to serve as a member of Governor-elect Spanberger’s administration. I strongly support her Strengthening Virginia Schools Plan,” Smith said in Tuesday’s announcement. “Together, we can advance a vision for a Commonwealth that is stronger, safer and more affordable for all Virginians, ensuring that every learner has the opportunity to achieve and succeed.” 

Spanberger will be inaugurated in Richmond on Jan. 17, replacing Gov. Glenn Youngkin, who cannot run for a second consecutive term. 

This story originally appeared on VirginiaMercury.com.