Sherri Schwanz

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KNEA President

Sherri Schwanz is an experienced music teacher who spent her career in Lansing USD 469. Sherri serves as KNEA President, leading the state’s largest union of education professionals. With a strong educational background, including a Bachelor of Music Education from Baker University and a Masters of Educational Leadership from Pittsburg State University, Sherri has dedicated her career to leadership and advocacy.

She has held various leadership roles in her school district, KNEA, and NEA, serving on committees and as a mentor. Sherri is actively involved in professional development and has presented to educators across the state. In her personal life, she cherishes time with her family and enjoys activities with her two children, one grandchild, and her husband Brian, who works in education.

Kimberly Howard

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KNEA Vice-President

Kimberly Howard, KNEA Vice President, is a K-5 ESL teacher in Wichita USD 259. She has a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and master’s degrees in School Leadership and Curriculum and Instruction in English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL).

Within her local, United Teachers of Wichita (UTW), Kimberly has served in many leadership positions, including President, Vice President, Secretary, and contributed to many committees focused on labor management and professional development.

At the state level, Kimberly has served as KNEA Secretary-Treasurer, chaired the KNEA Budget and Audit Committee, and participated in multiple KNEA committees and commissions. She also has been a member of the National Education Association (NEA) Board of Directors.  During her free time, Kimberly enjoys spending time with her niece and nephew, traveling and supporting KU basketball.

Jonathan Eshnaur

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KNEA Secretary-Treasurer

Jonathan Eshnaur is a dedicated high school special education teacher at Olathe Northwest High School with experience at Salina South High School and Kenneth Henderson Middle School. He holds a Bachelor's degree in secondary social studies from Wichita State University and a Master's degree in Secondary Special Education from Kansas State University.

Jonathan's passion for education is influenced by his own schooling at Norwich schools in Kansas and his family's teaching background. He actively contributes to association activities, holds leadership positions at the local and state levels, and currently serves as Secretary-Treasurer, chairing important committees and being a member of the KNEA Executive Committee and Board of Directors. In his free time, Jonathan enjoys spending quality moments with loved ones and maintaining an active lifestyle through running and gym activities.

Dr. David Fernkopf

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KNEA Executive Director

Dr. David Fernkopf is the Executive Director of the Kansas National Education Association (KNEA). With more than fifteen (15) years of experience in education, David has held various leadership roles, including Assistant Director on the Career Standards and Assessment Services Team at the Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE) and Elementary Principal at Overbrook Attendance Center. He also has served as an Adjunct Professor at Fort Hays State University. David earned his Doctorate in Educational Leadership and a Master's in School Leadership from Baker University, along with a Bachelor's in Elementary Education from Washburn University.

David's commitment to education extends beyond his professional duties. He has been a dedicated member of the KNEA, serving in various capacities, including local officer, Diversity Trainer, and Board Member. His involvement in the Kansas Children Service League (KCSL) as a Board of Directors member and his current role on the Board of Trustees further demonstrate his commitment to community service.

Known for his strong leadership and commitment to education, David is dedicated to advancing the interests of educators and students alike. His extensive experience in both teaching and administration, combined with his dedication to equity and community service, underscores his role as a respected leader within the educational community.

Board of Directors

The Kansas NEA Board of Directors is comprised of representatives of each of the 15 service areas (UniServs) of the state, and representatives of the following groups: KNEA Retired, the KNEA Aspiring Educators, Higher Education, Educational Support Professionals (ESP) and ethnic minority leaders.