Dr. Mary Keith currently serves as an Associate Professor in the School of Education at University of the Cumberlands. Dr. Keith worked for several years at the local school level as an elementary principal. Under her leadership, the school received the 2009 Mayor's Golden Apple Award for increased reading scores. As a Highly Skilled Educator (HSE), Dr. Keith served the Kentucky Department of Education in school turnaround and improvement initiatives. Formerly a school guidance counselor, reading specialist, and classroom teacher, Dr. Keith holds several K-12 certifications. She possesses an Education Specialist (Ed.S.) Degree in School Administration and holds a Doctorate in Education Leadership.