Wendy Robinson, Former Fort Wayne Schools Superintendent, Dies at 73
Dr. Wendy Robinson, who served as superintendent of Fort Wayne Community Schools for 17 years before retiring in 2020, has died at the age of 73. Robinson was a trailblazer in education, becoming the first woman, the first African American, and the first graduate of FWCS to lead the district when she was appointed superintendent in 2003.
Robinson was a lifelong learner, earning her high school diploma from FWCS' Central High School before going on to complete undergraduate studies at DePauw University. She continued her education by earning two master's degrees from Purdue Fort Wayne (then IPFW) and a doctorate from Ball State University.
Superintendent of the Year
In 2018, Robinson was named Indiana Superintendent of the Year in recognition of her dedicated leadership of FWCS. At the time, she told local news station WANE 15, "I don't see this as anything about me. I see this as a recognition of the hard work that happens in our district every day. And because of that, it's even more important that people understand the wonderful things happening are because of the people who live here."
Commitment to Community
Robinson was an engaged member of the community, serving on the boards of organizations like Parkview Health and Learning Forward. In 2022, the FWCS Family and Community Engagement Center, which Robinson helped establish in 2016, was renamed in her honor.
Legacy of Leadership
Robinson led FWCS for nearly two decades before taking early retirement in 2020. She first joined the district in 1973 as an elementary school teacher and spent 47 years as an educator there in total. As superintendent, Robinson focused on raising academic standards and achievement, particularly for students of color and those from low-income families.
Reactions to Robinson's Passing
FWCS released a statement praising Robinson's pioneering career and lamenting the loss of a visionary leader: "Dr. Robinson was a champion for public education and our community. Her passion for ensuring access to a high-quality education for all students was unmatched." Officials have not yet released details on memorial services for Robinson.
Conclusion
Dr. Wendy Robinson leaves behind a strong legacy of equality, excellence, and empowerment from her nearly five decades spent advancing public education in Fort Wayne. She will be remembered for breaking barriers and leading FWCS into a new era of progress and success for all students.
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