Leighan R. Rinker, Ed. D.

Leighan R. Rinker, Ed. D., a native of Virginia, is a graduate of the University of North Carolina with a bachelor’s degree in chemistry. She later earned M.Ed, Ed.S. and her doctorate degrees in educational leadership from Florida Atlantic University. She received an honorary degree from Furman University.

A strong advocate for children, Leighan was a professor of education at Palm Beach Atlantic University and Florida Atlantic University, as well as a national presenter and author in the field of early childhood education and administration. She is the founder and Chair of the Board of Beginnings of Palm Beach County, former chair of the National Accreditation Commission, and currently serves on the Board of Furman University, Place of Hope, Paradox Properties, D & L Foundation, and the Marshall E. Rinker, Sr. Foundation.

Leighan and her husband David have lived in Palm Beach County for 48 years. They are the parents of four children and have 14 grandchildren.