As a Director-at-Large on the KDP National Board of Directors, Mitch Pletcher sees his role as both an honor and an opportunity to give back to a profession that has shaped his life in countless ways. For Mitch, education isn’t just a field. It’s a lifelong inspiration. With a mother who taught for over 40 years, he grew up witnessing the incredible dedication, creativity, and resilience that teachers bring to their classrooms every day.
“My mother’s passion and commitment showed me firsthand the immense impact a great teacher can have,” Mitch shared. “Serving on the KDP Board is a way for me to honor her legacy and to support the next generation of educators.”
Mitch’s admiration for the teaching profession runs deep. He recalls his own 8th-grade algebra teacher as one of the most influential people in his life, a teacher who went above and beyond to connect with students both inside and outside the classroom.
“He made algebra engaging and enjoyable, but what stood out most was how he cared about us as people,” Mitch said. “He once played video games with me and some friends, and that simple act left a lasting impression. It reminded me that great teachers don’t just teach, they build relationships.”
Professionally, Mitch brings over 12 years of experience in public accounting and industry to his role on the KDP Board. As a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and Senior Manager at Solomon Edwards, a leading professional services firm specializing in strategy execution, he provides expertise in financial reporting, budgeting, internal controls, and technical accounting advisory. A graduate of the Kelley School of Business with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting, Mitch is a licensed CPA in the State of Indiana.
His career has also given him the opportunity to travel extensively, visiting more than 20 states from California to New York. He often made time to add a few personal days for exploration and fun, reflecting his balanced approach to both work and life.
Outside of his professional life, Mitch enjoys running, golfing, and spending time with his wife and two daughters.
At the heart of his work with KDP is a hope for teachers to feel empowered and supported.
“My greatest wish is that teachers today have the resources, support, and time they need to thrive,” he said. “They are navigating an incredibly complex landscape, and they deserve to feel fully supported by their administration and communities. When we champion teachers, we strengthen our communities and ensure a brighter future for all students.”