Dona Mitchell has served as the Lancaster ISD Truancy Coordinator for 12.5 years. She currently serves as the 2019-2021 International Association for Truancy and Dropout Prevention President, the IATDP. For 3 years, she has been nominated for Life Changer of the Year and won a Humanitarian Award from the State Fair of Texas. Dona brings global awareness to the many facets of truancy and dropouts. She sounds the alarm in the fight against youth bullying, crime, depression, gang banging, mental illness, homelessness, runaways, and suicidal behavior all leading to chronic absenteeism. For 30 years she has been a trail blazer, leader, and an advocate for social change. She has received recognition for her innovative creativity in truancy and dropout prevention. She has a unique ability to partner and develop relationships to address truancy and dropout prevention all across Texas. She empowers, encourages, and inspires students nationally and internationally. Her motto: ‘Be the Voice, Be the Change.’