As Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS) continues to advance its Reimagining 901 strategic plan, MSCS announces the appointment of Dr. Cathryn Stout as Chief of Communications and Broadcast Services. 

"As a journalist, historian, and strategist, Dr. Stout brings a deep knowledge of the local and educational landscape and a strong vision to help us elevate the narrative of our district and its dynamic students, teachers, and staff," said Superintendent Dr. Joris M. Ray. "There was national interest in this position, but we are thrilled that we found the talent we need right here at home."

A Memphis native, Dr. Stout is a graduate of Central High School. Dr. Stout holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in American Studies from Wellesley College, a Master of Arts in Southern Studies from the University of Mississippi, a Doctorate in American Studies from Saint Louis University, and a Presidential Fellowship at Interdenominational Theological Center in Atlanta where she is pursuing a divinity degree. Most recently, she served as bureau chief for Chalkbeat Tennessee where she helped to launch Tennessee education stories into national headlines. Dr. Stout started her career in journalism at the Memphis Grizzlies as a media intern and later at The Commercial Appeal, winning the Horizon Award for exceptional performance from an early-career journalist.

After leaving The Commercial Appeal, she entered the classroom as both a graduate student and educator. She served as an English teacher and the director of the summer Writing Workshop at Choate Rosemary Hall in Wallingford, Connecticut and as the Assistant Dean of Equity and Inclusion and History Department Chair for Miss Porter's School in Farmington, Connecticut, becoming the first person of color to serve as a department chair in the school's 175-year-history, according to available records.

"While I have enjoyed my work in other parts of the country, my heart has always been in Memphis," said Dr. Stout, who comes from a family of Memphis educators. "I am honored to have the opportunity to work with Superintendent Ray and serve the people of Memphis-Shelby County Schools. I am called to this work."

Dr. Stout succeeds former Chief of Communications and Broadcast Services, Jerica Phillips, who recently announced her transition to ALSAC — the fundraising and awareness organization for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital –– where she will lead areas of media relations and strategic communication.

Dr. Stout begins on June 13.

LEADERSHIP ADVANCEMENTS

Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS) Superintendent Dr. Joris M. Ray has made additional key leadership transitions to help drive academic success. As part of a restructuring strategy to support Reimagining 901, significant personnel changes have been made in the Academics Department, Office of Schools and Leadership, and Strategic Operations. Furthermore, to ensure the District has the right leaders in position to support the safety of our employees and students, three new leaders have been named to the MSCS Safety and Security team. 

“I strongly believe that these transitions will help to accelerate and sustain student success,” said Superintendent Ray. “Therefore, we must complement the concepts within our strategic priorities by making strategic moves around how we approach hiring, training, and retaining the best in human capital to support the work.”

MSCS began restructuring its academic leadership teams last year in order to drive the District’s plan toward Reimagining 901. As District leaders began thinking about how to build an effective workforce to support the work of instruction, school and district level changes were considered. 

Click here to review the full list of Central Office and School Leadership advancements.