Dr. Tamara Willis, Superintendent, Susquehanna Township School District

Dr. Tamara Willis

Superintendent
Susquehanna Township School District

What leadership traits have served you well? And on the flip side, what have you learned that tends to hold women leaders back?

Leadership traits that have served me well include being results-driven, staying true to my core beliefs.

A results-driven mindset has been essential in strengthening our district’s financial position. Under my leadership, we have grown our fund balance to its strongest level in over a decade, ensuring greater financial stability and long-term sustainability. Now, we are launching a campaign to adjust the earned income tax in our township to secure funding for a much-needed new elementary school—an investment that will directly address enrollment growth and future educational needs.

At the core of my leadership is commitment to service, ethics, and integrity. These values guide my decision-making and ensure that every initiative prioritizes the interests of our learners, families and stakeholders.

Women in leadership may feel pressured to have all the answers, but true leadership isn’t about knowing everything—it’s about building a team of experts, empowering them, and working collaboratively to achieve mission-driven results.

What advice would you give to the next generation of female leaders?

Before stepping into a leadership role, I would encourage them to take time to reflect on a few key questions:

1. Why do I want to lead in this or any other organization?
2. How does this role align with my core beliefs?
3. What do I strive to accomplish in this role?

Write down your answers and keep them close. They will serve as a source of encouragement and self-reflection during challenging moments when you may question your decisions.

What key resources have you sought out to help your company/organization?

I actively engage with national and local professional organizations to expand my network, access critical legal and financial resources, and cultivate strategic partnerships that drive growth for my school district, its learners, families, and community stakeholders. Additionally, I collaborate with municipal, state, and local officials to ensure our district remains a key consideration in policy and funding decisions that impact education and community development.

In today’s competitive landscape, leaders are the face of their organizations just as much as any brand or logo. I strive to strategically position our district, build strong professional alliances, and leverage key resources that advance our mission and long-term objectives for the benefit of our students and community.

Mentorship is so important to women in the workforce these days. Do you mentor other women through a specific program? Or did you have a mentor that was inspirational to you?

While I do not subscribe to a specific program, I have mentored many women leaders over the years. I also have a mentor and strongly believe in the value of mentorship. We all need someone who will both hold us accountable and support our growth as leaders.

I encourage leaders to actively invest in mentorship—whether by guiding emerging professionals, creating leadership development opportunities, or fostering a workplace culture that values continuous learning. Strong leaders don’t just build successful organizations; they cultivate the next generation of leaders who will drive long-term impact.