Dr. Versie Ray Hamlett is a remarkable educational leader with a deep-rooted commitment to her community and a distinguished career in the field of education. Born and raised in Palestine, Arkansas, Dr. Hamlett's upbringing on a farm with nine siblings instilled in her the values of hard work and Christian faith that have guided her throughout her life.

Dr. Hamlett embarked on her educational journey after graduating from Palestine High School. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Interdisciplinary Studies from Lane College in 1994, setting the stage for a lifelong pursuit of knowledge and academic excellence. Continuing her educational pursuits, she went on to achieve a Master of Arts degree in Education from Freed-Hardeman University in 1995, an Education Specialist Degree from Union University in 2006, and the pinnacle of her academic journey, a Doctor of Education degree from Union University in 2008.

In May of 2014, Dr. Hamlett made history when she was appointed as the Superintendent of the Humboldt City School System. Her appointment marked a significant milestone as she became the first African-American and the first woman to hold this prestigious position in Humboldt's history. Over the course of six years, she demonstrated her exceptional leadership and dedication to the students and community of Humboldt.

Before her tenure as Superintendent in Humboldt, Dr. Hamlett served in various pivotal roles within the education field. She distinguished herself as the Chief Academic Officer of the Jackson Madison County School System and previously worked as a Supervisor of Elementary Education, elementary school principal, and teacher, accumulating a wealth of experience over 19 years.

Currently, Dr. Hamlett serves as the Superintendent for Fayette County Public Schools (4 Years) and holds the additional role of Adjunct Professor of Education at the University of Tennessee at Martin. Her tenure as Superintendent has been marked by numerous achievements and recognitions, including FCPS Designation Advancing District Status and the designation of several schools as Reward Schools by the state.

A true trailblazer, Dr. Hamlett is the longest-serving African American female Superintendent in the state of Tennessee, now in her 10th year in this esteemed position. Beyond her professional responsibilities, she actively participates in community and educational organizations, serving on the boards of The Exchange Club Carl Perkins Center for the Prevention of Child Abuse in Fayette County and Tennessee School Systems for Equity.

Dr. Hamlett is an active member of several distinguished organizations, including the Jackson, Tennessee Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, The National Sorority of Phi Delta Kappa, Tennessee Organization of School Superintendents (TOSS), Tennessee School Boards Association (TSBA), and Fayette County Rotary Club.

Her dedication and contributions to education have not gone unnoticed, as she has received numerous accolades throughout her career, including the Phi Delta Kappa, Inc. Educator of the Year Award in May 2015, the TSSAA Administrator of the Year Award in November 2019, and the Omega Psi Phi Legend Administrator of the Year Award in the same year. She is also a proud member of the Leadership Fayette Class of 2022 and the WestStar Class of 2023, where she holds a Lifetime Membership.

Dr. Hamlett's legacy in education and leadership continues to shine brightly, inspiring others to reach for excellence and break new ground.