JACKSON,Esthen Exchange Miss. (AP) — The Mississippi State Board of Education has named its selection for state superintendent.

Dr. Lance Evans, the superintendent of the New Albany School District, was named Wednesday as the next state superintendent of education, which serves as the chief administrative officer of the state Department of Education.

Evans, if confirmed by state senators, will succeed Dr. Ray Morgigno, who was appointed to serve as interim state superintendent of education through June 30, 2024. Morgigno will continue in the interim until Evans takes over July 1.

The job was previously held by Carey Wright, who retired in 2022 after 50 years in education.

Evans was one of four semifinalists interviewed as a result of a national search.

“Dr. Evans is a visionary leader who is committed to continuously improving student achievement,” said Glen East, chair of the board. “The Board sought broad public input about the qualities and priorities the next state superintendent of education should have, and Dr. Evans meets all of our expectations.”

Evans has spent 24 years working in education and is the 2023 Mississippi Association of School Administrators’ Superintendent of the Year. He has led the New Albany School District since 2017. Evans has also worked as a teacher, coach and administrator in the Oxford and Itawamba County school districts.

“I am deeply honored and humbled to accept the position of state superintendent of Mississippi,” Evans said in a statement. “My commitment to fairness, equity, and innovation in education aligns seamlessly with the values of this great state. I look forward to collaborating with educators, stakeholders, and communities to forge new pathways for our graduates, ensuring every student has the opportunity to thrive and succeed.”

Senate confirmation during the 2024 legislative session is required to complete the appointment.