Liz Mumford considers her time on the Davis School District Board of Education during some of the most pivotal events in recent history as both a privilege and a challenge. Mumford, who has served as a board member for eight years and is currently the Board President will be leaving office in January. 

“The consistent challenge of navigating competing interests from different community members was amplified during the pandemic and amid political tensions,” said Mumford. “I learned to listen more, consider all the perspectives, get to the facts, and act on principle. I also learned that compromise, collaboration, and consensus are critical to working with a board in a shared governance role.”

Before Mumford was elected she worked at Muir Elementary as the SEM teacher and student council advisor. “I loved teaching enrichment classes in each grade level and that's where I learned about many of the challenges facing educators and school leaders,” she said. “I ran for office because I cared about the daily experience of students and teachers and wanted to create greater opportunities for achievement.” 

Collaborative efforts between the Board and the administration have led to more choices for families, better compensation for educators, and excellent learning programs like the Catalyst Center, all day kindergarten, and robust course offerings for students, she said.

Mumford has loved being a student her whole life and education was a natural fit for her undergrad studies. “While I stayed home to raise my four boys for many years, I always found ways to stay connected to the school system.”

Board member John Robison was elected at the same time as Mumford. “I heard so many good things about Liz,” he said. “Her work ethic, her commitment and integrity to do what she is responsible to do or what she feels needs to be done is second to none.”

She’s bright but humble, Robison said. “I have great respect for her. Not only as a school. Board member but as a person.”

“Liz is someone you can count on,” said Superintendent Dr. Dan Linford. “I’ve been in education a long time and she’s never let me down as she’s been on the board. She’s so bright. She’s the real deal. I’m going to miss her mentoring and the power she brings to the district.”

In addition to her dedication to education, Mumford is also involved in charitable organizations such as Mentors International. “Mentors International is a global nonprofit committed to empowering individuals in emerging economies through business mentoring, financial tools, and vocational training,” she said. “I've been serving on that board for a decade because I believe in their mission of helping families develop self-reliance and economic success.”   

 Mumford said the relationships and experiences she’s had serving in the community and schools have blessed her family. “DSD educators are our friends and neighbors, and they are the heart of our public schools.”

Mumford intends to stay involved. “I’m excited to continue my service with the nonprofit Mentors International, and I recently accepted a full-time position in the Land Trusts Advocacy and Protection Office working with institutions across the state which benefit from trust lands,” she said. “The relationships I developed with board colleagues, educators, and community members were definitely the most rewarding part of the role.” λ