Dr. Anyee` D. Payne is a powerhouse leader. She inspires leaders and aspiring leaders to become #organizedleaders, who identify priorities, develop action plans, and delegate tasks that catapult the organization’s culture and academic growth. With this leadership model, she serves as principal of a high performing, internationally STEM certified school. Additionally, she has earned state recognition from the Governor’s Office of Student Achievement for student growth. Additionally, Dr. Payne has secured millions of dollars in grant funding for STEM based instruction, afterschool, and summer programs. Dr. Payne began her educational career as a kindergarten teacher. Throughout her career, she has held various instructional, support, and leadership roles; including Reading Instructional Coach, Instructional Liaison Specialist, Leadership Support Specialist, and Assistant Principal. Dr. Payne holds a bachelor’s of science degree in Early Childhood Education from Georgia Southern University. She obtained a master’s of education degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Central Michigan University, and a doctor of philosophy degree in Educational Leadership from Mercer University. She fulfilled her ultimate dream which was completing the Harvard University’s Graduate School of Education’s National Institute of Urban School Leaders program.Dr. Payne’s balance in life are her devoted husband Michael and daughter Avery.