WORDS & PHOTOS: Wendy Dewhurst
Manatee Education Foundation (MEF) President Mary Glass knows that when it comes to leadership transitions, timing is everything.
“I’ve been quietly interviewing for my replacement for years,” she said. “From the moment Kathy Price expressed interest, we started chatting, and when the time was right, I knew I had found the right person.”
The Manatee Schools Foundation was established as part of the Manatee County School Board in 1988 as a statewide not-for-profit organization to support teachers. In the mid-90s, it changed its name to the Manatee Education Foundation (MEF). Today, the Foundation’s mission is to provide funding for innovative programs and enhanced educational opportunities for the teachers and students at Manatee County Public Schools beyond allocated state dollars. It acts as a liaison between the private sector and the public school system, providing avenues for business, industry, and community involvement in public education.
In 2007, Mary Glass became the President of the MEF, and in 2012, the MEF became independent from the school board. The Foundation moved into its own office space and hit the ground running.
“We accomplish our mission by addressing key issues and needs within the public education arena,” said Mary. “We present effective, efficient, and accountable opportunities for the private sector to support quality public education. While fulfilling this mission, I learned that giving is receiving, and helping children is a precious gift.”
Honoring a legacy of leadership
As a lifelong resident of Manatee County and graduate of the University of South Florida, Mary knew early on she wanted to be in the mainstream of her community. She was committed to influencing others through communication, collaboration, and compassion. Actively listening to her team and understanding their needs allowed her to show strong, effective leadership in multiple roles. She experienced rewarding progress in marketing, the nonprofit world, advertising, and project development.
Under Mary’s direction, the MEF gained recognition through partnerships with the Manatee Arts Education Council, Soar in 4, Adopt-A-School, the Excellence in Education Awards, Teacher IMPACT Grants, and the Regional STEM Competition. In 2018, the Local College Access Network, REACH MANATEE, was formed. Mary also fostered partnerships with Manatee Community Foundation, the Bishop-Parker Foundation, and the Barancik Foundation.
Vernon DeSear, CEO of the Manatee Memorial Foundation, spoke of how the past 36 years have been a fabulous journey, working with outstanding community leaders and educators to achieve a strong, cohesive, and dedicated Foundation. He credits much of that progress to Mary’s arrival 18 years ago.
“She was the perfect leader to move us forward and blend the talents of citizens, teachers, and School Administration,” Vernon said. Her leadership, he noted, brought out the best in everyone and fostered a more collaborative spirit.
Now, as Mary steps into retirement, Vernon joins in celebrating her legacy. He is also grateful for her foresight in preparing a thoughtful succession plan. “Kathy Price will be a phenomenal Executive Director,” he said, citing the ongoing support of educators, administrators, the Board, and the wider community. “We are blessed.”
MEF Board Chair Brando Fetzek described Mary as someone deeply committed to the teachers and students at the School
District of Manatee County (SDMC), noting that she has dedicated her career to the mission of the MEF. He praised her as a consummate professional who built the Foundation’s legacy through strong leadership, tireless advocacy, and a genuine passion for expanding opportunities across the district.
Brando also shared how meaningful it has been to collaborate with Mary, especially while helping to build the Manatee Arts Education Council.
“Working with Mary over the past few years, and alongside her as a member of the Foundation’s team for the past year, has been a real joy and terrific learning experience,” he said.
Her commitment, he added, has always been evident. “Mary’s passion for supporting all teachers, students, and our school district is clear, and I am so thankful to have had these opportunities.”
As the Foundation prepares for its next chapter, Brando is optimistic. “I look forward to continuing many of the fantastic projects that Mary has championed over the past 18 years,” he said. “And with Kathy coming on board, I know we will continue to strengthen partnerships across the county to support our school district.”
A new chapter begins
On August 4, Kathy Price officially stepped into her new role as the MEF’s Executive Director. Mary will continue to support the transition as a consultant through April 2026, working from the newly established Lakewood Ranch office.
Kathy brings nearly two decades of experience with the School District of Manatee County and a deep-rooted passion for serving children, both of which have prepared her well for this role.
“It has been an honor to serve with the SDMC,” Kathy said. “I leave with deep gratitude and fond memories of the incredible colleagues and communities I’ve had the privilege to serve. As I transition into this new chapter, I look forward to working with our small but mighty MEF team and our incredible board of directors. I’m excited to carry forward the remarkable legacy that Mary has built, while also hoping to shape a legacy of my own—one rooted in service, compassion, and lasting impact.
“Having worked most of my career in East Manatee County,” she added, “I want to utilize my connections to build a virtual bridge bringing all of Manatee County together. I want Lakewood Ranch, as well as all surrounding areas, to feel a part of Manatee County. I want us to be one county, one district.”
Katie Fradley has seen Kathy Price’s leadership in action, up close. As her former assistant principal at Willis Elementary, Katie quickly saw that Kathy’s greatest strength is building relationships—whether it’s with students, teachers, parents, or business partners.
“The kind, loving kindergarten teacher in her always shines through,” Katie said. “She has a rare ability to make everyone feel seen and valued, whether she’s sitting on the floor surrounded by children or at a round table with community leaders. Throughout her career in four very different schools, she has remained a tireless advocate for teachers and a steady, compassionate presence in every school community she’s served. I can’t think of a better person to lead the MEF.”
The School District of Manatee County’s Executive Director of Elementary Schools, Dr. Annette Codelia, expressed confidence in Kathy’s leadership and excitement for what’s ahead. While the district will greatly miss Mary, Dr. Codelia sees Kathy as a natural fit for the role.
“The MEF is so fortunate to bring Kathy on board as the new Executive Director,” she said. “Kathy is a skilled professional who values students, teachers, and families. She knows our schools so well, and I wish her all the best in this next chapter.”
Dr. Codelia recalled being by Kathy’s side on her very first day as a principal in 2014. “She embraced the Myakka City Elementary community and raised the school’s grade from a C to an A,” she said. “From there, she went on to lead Willis Elementary School with the same passion and purpose.”
Mary Glass echoed that sense of optimism as she prepares to step back. “I’m excited to see what new energy and ideas Kathy will bring to this role,” she said. “We have great leadership and a fantastic board. I wouldn’t be leaving if I didn’t feel like the Foundation was in great hands. With Kathy in place and the mission clear, the MEF can continue the practical, people-first efforts that shape real outcomes in education.”
