Upon learning of his selection, Dr. Chestnut stated, "I am honored to be the president-elect of WASA and look forward to working with the WASA team to continue improving K-12 public education for the students of our great state.” As president, Dr. Chestnut's goals will include:

• Providing statewide leadership concerning the Ample School Funding Project.
• Focusing on instructional leadership.
• Demonstrating statewide leadership on the implementation and improvement of the No Child Left Behind Act.
• Ensuring that WASA is responsive to the professional needs of all members.
• Working cooperatively with other organizations to provide equity and excellence for our students.

Dr. Chestnut has been an active member of WASA for many years. He has served twice as a board member and region president, as well as participated on several standing committees. He also is a current member of the American Association of School Administrator's (AASA) Governing Board.

In addition to his professional activities, Dr. Chestnut advocates for children at a local level as well. He is currently a member of the Moses Lake Rotary and a board member of the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Columbia Basin and the North Central Workforce Development Council.

Beginning his ninth year as superintendent of the Moses Lake School District, Dr. Chestnut has served in such other Eastern Washington schools districts as Dayton, Kiona-Benton and Grandview. His educational training includes an Ed.D. from Seattle University, an M.Ed. from Central Washington University, an M.B.A. from City University and a B.A.Ed. from Pacific Lutheran University.