During a special meeting broadcast live to the public on March 23, 2026, Sherry Wynn Perdue, Ph.D., was appointed by the Board of Education of the Rochester Community School (RCS) District to fill the trustee position vacated by Jessica Gupta.
The candidate’s service for this volunteer position began immediately following the oath of office and continues through the November 2026 election.
“As an educational administrator and faculty member at Oakland University, with a Ph.D. in educational leadership, I feel called to play a more active role in supporting Rochester’s students and strengthening the district’s future,” Dr. Wynn Perdue said. “My background in educational leadership, policy development, and emerging technologies positions me to contribute thoughtfully.”
For 15 years, Dr. Wynn Perdue has served as director of the Oakland University Writing Center, growing a small service unit into a campus-wide, data-informed program serving students, faculty and community partners. Through her role on Oakland University’s Academic Council, she has reviewed and evaluated policy and is knowledgeable about how governance decisions shape practice.
Additionally, she served as president of the International Writing Centers Association and contributes to national and university-level artificial intelligence literacy initiatives promoting ethical, critical engagement with generative AI.
As a graduate and undergraduate instructor at Oakland University, Dr. Wynn Perdue has taught courses on the philosophy and ethics of educational leadership, research methodology, staff/curriculum development for school improvement, and composition and writing. She also collaborates regularly as a curriculum consultant with high school educators and provides professional development related to Advanced Placement English and Composition, language arts, test preparation services and more.
In appointing Dr. Wynn Perdue, RCS board members cited her professional knowledge of what students need for success in higher education and future careers, a data-informed approach to meeting students’ needs, support for educators and public education, an appreciation for strategic planning, a reciprocal understanding of K-12 and collegiate education, and a commitment to ensuring that every child has a sense of belonging.
“Strong boards prioritize thoughtful, student-centered decision-making. They work across perspectives to find common ground and remain open to revisiting decisions as conditions change. I’m less interested in being right than in getting it right for our students,” said Dr. Wynn Perdue.
Dr. Wynn Perdue earned a doctorate in educational leadership from Oakland University, and a master’s degree in English/American studies and bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary humanities from Michigan State University. She is a Rochester Hills resident and parent of a Rochester Community Schools graduate.
The Board of Education followed the Revised School Code and Michigan Election Law in appointing an eligible candidate to fill the trustee position. The position vacancy was announced to the public on February 13, 2026; all eligible candidates were encouraged to apply. At the March 9 Board of Education meeting, applicants were identified for the interview phase. On March 23, a special meeting was held to meet candidates, conduct public interviews, and select a trustee.
Seven candidates interviewed for the position: Nicholas Blaszczyk, Dana Cadman, Laurin Gracey-Parker, Kristen Hall, Lawrence Halushka, Jamie Rawcliffe, and Dr. Wynn Perdue. Following the meeting, board members thanked the applicants for their interest in public service and willingness to dedicate their time and talents for the good of the school district.
In a 4-2 vote by the school board, Dr. Wynn Perdue was approved to fill the trustee position vacated by Jessica Gupta, who resigned from her position effective March 1. Trustees Barbara Anness, Jayson Blake, Michelle Bueltel, and Julie Alspach supported Dr. Perdue. The dissenting votes were Trustees Carol Beth Litkouhi and Shelley Lauzon.
“Sherry Wynn Perdue offers a forward-thinking perspective and recognizes many of the opportunities and challenges that sit before school districts and students soon to be entering college and the workforce,” said Superintendent Nicholas Russo. “Her professional experience and student-focused responses will complement our work to enhance programming in Rochester Community Schools.”
Barbara Anness Elected as Board President
Following the appointment of Dr. Wynn Perdue, the board elected Barbara Anness — with the same 4-2 vote with Perdue abstaining — to serve as president. Ms. Anness thanked the board for their vote of confidence in the appointment.
“I recognize that not everyone supported my selection and I recognize the diversity of perspectives at this table,” said Anness. “As president, I am committed to being fair and impartial and to ensuring that Robert’s Rules of Order newly revised edition are followed with integrity so that every trustee is treated equally. In return, I ask for your grace and cooperation in upholding these standards and I will extend that same respect and fairness to each of you.”
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