During its March 20 meeting, the Mountain Vista Governor’s School Governing Board appointed Ladona Gorham as permanent director. She has served as interim director since Aug. 1, 2024.

Gorham brings more than 34 years of experience in public education, including 15 years as a teacher in Stafford County Public Schools, a curriculum specialist in Culpeper County Public Schools, and an instructional supervisor for Fauquier County Public Schools, where she oversaw advanced and fine arts programs. Additionally, she has directed the Virginia Department of Education’s SummerQuest! program for gifted students for the past 18 years.

A member of the MVGS Academic Advisory Board since its inception in 2006, Gorham expressed her enthusiasm for the role.

“I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to lead Mountain Vista Governor’s School,” she said. “The past few months have been incredibly fulfilling, and I’m excited to continue working alongside such a dedicated team of faculty, staff, and community partners to support our students’ success.”

Gorham holds a post-master’s certificate in administration and supervision from Virginia Commonwealth University, a master’s degree in educational psychology with a specialization in gifted education from the University of Virginia, and a Bachelor of Science in elementary education from West Virginia University. She is certified in administration, elementary education, middle education, and gifted education.

In her free time, Gorham enjoys archery and genealogy and spending time with her husband of 30 years, Jeff, and their horses, Max and Blue.