Public Education Foundation President Dan Challener was among a handful of invited guests for Governor Phil Bredesen’s State of the State address on Monday, January 28 in Nashville. The inclusion is the latest recognition the governor has given to public education efforts in Hamilton County.

“This is a real honor, both for PEF and for Hamilton County schools. It is about our collective accomplishments and leadership in public education. PEF is a proud partner in that work,” said Dr. Challener.

As part of Tennessee’s participation in the American Diploma Project, Dr. Challener also sits on an advisory committee helping Governor Bredesen determine the best ways to raise state education standards, increase graduation rates and get more Tennessee students enrolled in college and ready for high skilled jobs .

Last year, Governor Bredesen and Dr. Challener were featured at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce “Institute for a Competitive Workforce.” The governor delivered a keynote on Tennessee’s renewed education commitment and the importance of quality teachers in that work. Dr. Challener participated in a panel discussion about teacher quality and highlighted Hamilton County’s Pay-for-Performance strategy.

The Governor' State of the State address can be viewed online at www.tennessee.gov.