Wilmington Council Loses Top Education Champion to Meyer’s Team
Dr. LaRetha Odumosu, known to many as Dr. O, has stepped down from her role as the first director of the Wilmington City Council’s Office of Educational Advocacy to join Governor Matt Meyer’s team. Her departure marks a significant shift for the city’s educational initiatives, which have long operated under limited authority over education policy.
The Office of Educational Advocacy was established to provide support to students and families within the city. Under Dr. O’s leadership, it became a vital resource for connecting communities with schools and organizing outreach events. However, with her transition to a senior policy advisor position in the governor’s office, the office will now need to find a new leader to continue its mission.
City Council President Ernest “Trippi” Congo expressed his appreciation for Dr. O’s contributions. He noted that while her departure is a loss, she remains committed to supporting the city’s efforts.
“We’re definitely going to miss her, but she still said that she’s gonna be there to support us and help us be successful,” Congo said. “But I wouldn’t sit here and pretend that it’s not because, she was our first, and that wasn’t just by a chance, she stood out from everybody else. So definitely a game for them, I’m happy for them.”
Governor Matt Meyer welcomed Dr. O to his administration, highlighting her dedication to education. In a statement released on March 19, Meyer emphasized her passion for ensuring students have the tools they need to succeed.
“She knows that if a child can’t read, they can’t succeed,” Meyer stated. “That’s why she has dedicated her career to opening doors for students and families, and I know she will bring that same passion and urgency to this role, working to ensure every Delawarean has the resources and support they need to prepare for the jobs of the 21st century.”
Dr. O also took time to express her gratitude to the City Council for the opportunity to build the foundation of the Office of Educational Advocacy. She reflected on the progress made during her tenure and looked forward to the future of the office.
“It has truly been a privilege to contribute to this work and to the future of Wilmington’s students, families and communities,” she said. “I am proud of what we have begun and excited for what lies ahead for the Office of Educational Advocacy and the City of Wilmington.”
Congo reiterated the importance of finding the right person to lead the office moving forward. He emphasized the need for a director who can ensure the community feels involved in the education system.
“We have to make sure that we just pick the right the next person who’s going to lead us in a direction where the community feels they’re a part of our whole education system,” he said.
As the Office of Educational Advocacy looks to the future, it will need to maintain the momentum Dr. O helped establish. Her departure represents both a challenge and an opportunity for the city to reevaluate and strengthen its approach to educational advocacy.
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