Sherrod Willaford, principal of C.J. Hicks Elementary School, was recently named an Emerging Leader by PDK International, a global association of education professionals.

The PDK Emerging Leader program recognizes top educators under age 40 from around the world for their leadership. A committee made up of PDK’s past Emerging Leaders selected the 22 honorees from a competitive field of applicants, based on their outstanding professional accomplishments.

In addition to being honored at an event in Washington, D.C., honorees also have the opportunity to be published by PDK, apply for grants, and participate in PDK initiatives.

Willaford has previously been an assistant principal, a middle school science and math teacher, and a remedial education high school teacher.

“I am passionate about the business of education,” he said. “My goals include continuing to serve our schools by providing support to those who aspire to become leaders.”

Willaford is a member of PDK International, Pi Lambda Theta, ASCD, Georgia Compensatory Educational Leaders, Georgia Association of Educational Leaders, Georgia Association of Elementary School Principals, and National Association of Elementary School Principals.

For more information on PDK’s 2012-2013 Class of Emerging Leaders, go to www.pdkemergingleaders.org.