Dr. Devin D. Embray is an educational leader focused on building coherent systems across curriculum, instruction, and assessment. His current work includes the development of a leadership book titled Instructional Leadership Redefined, which examines how leaders move from isolated efforts to aligned practices that improve consistency in teaching and learning.
With more than three decades in education, including over 20 years as a superintendent in Iowa, Dr. Embray has led comprehensive district reform efforts, including curriculum alignment, professional learning community development, and system-wide instructional improvement. His work has resulted in measurable gains in organizational effectiveness, including recognition as a Model Professional Learning Community District by Solution Tree in 2024 and a National Blue Ribbon School award in 2022. He was also a finalist for the School Administrators of Iowa Superintendent of the Year in 2022. He has also provided interim Superintendent leadership in Nebraska over the past two years at Fairbury Public Schools.
Dr. Embray serves as an adjunct professor in the doctoral educational leadership program at the University of the Cumberlands, where he works with aspiring leaders on bridging theory and practice in school improvement. His professional interests include organizational coherence, leadership systems, and the practical application of research in schools.
Outside of his professional work, Dr. Embray lives in southwest Iowa and enjoys working on DIY projects around the house, as well as muscle cars and restoration work.