The DeKalb County School District (DCSD) proudly celebrates the swearing-in of four accomplished and dedicated Board of Education (BOE) members. On January 6, Superior Court Judge Gregory Adams and State Court Judge Mike Jacobs administered the oaths of office at the Robert R. Freeman Administrative and Instructional Complex to Mr. Andrew B. Ziffer (District 1), new BOE Chair Mrs. Deirdre P. Pierce (District 3), Dr. Tiffany Tate-Hogan (District 5), and Mr. Awet Eyasu (District 7).
“This team of dedicated leaders will help guide our District toward new heights of achievement,” said DCSD Superintendent Dr. Devon Q. Horton. “Their diverse experiences and commitment to our students will be invaluable as we continue to strengthen educational opportunities and outcomes for every child in DeKalb County.”
Mrs. Deirdre P. Pierce (District 3) is beginning her second term and returns to the Board after serving as vice-chairperson for the last two years. A DeKalb County resident for 50 years, she has a long and distinguished history of community engagement, including serving on the Georgia PTA Board, local School Councils and PTA/PTSAs, Junior League of DeKalb County, Inc. Community Advisory, Social Justice Ministry Chair at Ray of Hope Christian Church, and President of the DeKalb County Council of PTAs when it was one unit.
“I cannot tell you how appreciative and honored I am to continue the great work that the school district has started,” she said. “It’s been great, but it’s going to get greater.”
Mr. Andrew B. Ziffer (District 1) has been an active DCSD parent for over 13 years. He brings over three decades of business, technology, and real estate experience to the Board. As Managing Partner at Greenleaf Capital, he oversees commercial real estate acquisitions and management.
“This is a promise that every decision I make will be rooted in the belief that a public school education is the foundation for opportunity and the key to a better future for our county, state, and country,” said Mr. Ziffer. “My goal is to make DeKalb County Schools the first choice for parents and students. A place where dreams are nurtured, and futures are built.”
Dr. Tiffany Tate-Hogan (District 5) is a lifelong DeKalb resident. Dr. Hogan, a former DCSD teacher and administrator, has over 30 years of K-12 experience. She remains committed to educational equity and student support as she shifts from the classroom to the boardroom.
“Every decision that I make is for the children and what is in the best interest of the children,” she said. “I’m a firm supporter of the students, as well as those individuals who support the students. I’m working for you, and I look forward to this journey over the next four years.”
Mr. Awet Eyasu (District 7) is originally from Eritrea and has called DeKalb County home for more than two decades. A former councilman and Vice Mayor of Clarkston (2015-2023), Mr. Eyasu, a father of four, said DCSD had served his family as they sought additional resources for their autistic son, and he hopes to reciprocate that service to the district and all families.
“I believe there are so many families who have not had the same opportunities as my family,” said Mr. Eyasu. “I believe that, especially for many of our immigrant communities, we have a lot of work to do, and I think it’s doable if everyone puts in the work. I’m very honored and thankful to serve.”
These four Board members bring a forward-thinking outlook, community-focused leadership, and a commitment to student success. Backed by Dr. Horton and the entire DCSD community, their shared vision promises a future of excellence, equity, and boundless opportunity for every child in DeKalb County.
For pictures from the Oath-of-Office Ceremony, see: https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjBXsZF