Your Voice, Your Vote in Action
Every election is more than a process, it is a reaffirmation of a shared commitment NAPT members to advance the mission of the association. Through your voice and your vote, members shape the future of our industry, ensuring that association leaders reflect both the passion and priorities of our profession.
This year’s election once again highlighted the strength of NAPT and the dedicated professionals willing to step forward to serve.
Meet the 2025 NAPT Election Winners
President-Elect
Melody Coniglio, CDPT, CSNT
Director of Transportation, West Geauga Local Schools (OH)
Currently serving as NAPT Region 3 Director, Melody will now step into the role of President-Elect for a two-year term before advancing to President.
“As President-Elect, I will bring vision, experience, and servant leadership to NAPT. With service as Region 3 Director, PDS Chair, and OAPT President, I understand member needs and value collaboration. Recognized nationally for innovation and excellence, I am committed to advancing safety, professionalism, and professional development in pupil transportation,” said Melody.
Melody succeeds Keith Kaup who will be sworn in as President during the upcoming National Conference (NAPT ACTS) this month in Grand Rapids, MI.
Region 1 Director
Marc Medina
Supervisor of Transportation, Farmingdale School District (NY)
Marc ran uncontested and will serve his first three-year term as NAPT Region 1 Director.
“I will bring teamwork, collaboration, and commitment, always keeping our focus on the heart of our work – the safety of the children,” says Marc.
Marc succeeds Peter Lawrence who concludes three terms as Region 1 Director, having reached the term limit outlined in the NAPT bylaws. Over his tenure, Peter helped establish a strong foundation for the region, advancing both member engagement and organizational stability. His leadership leaves Region 1 well-positioned for continued growth under new representation.
Region 5 Director
Dawnett Wright
Director of Transportation,
Peninsula School District (WA)
Dawnett ran uncontested and will serve her first three-year term as NAPT Region 5 Director.
“With more than 30 years in pupil transportation, from driver to district director, I bring both hands-on expertise and leadership experience. As WAPT President and Director of Transportation at Peninsula School District, I understand our industry’s challenges and am committed to being an accessible and collaborative advocate for our region at the national level,” says Dawnett.
She succeeds Athena Bartz after completing one term as Region 5 Director, Athena Bartz chose not to seek reelection for personal reasons. During her service, Athena provided steady leadership and clear direction, strengthening the region’s voice within NAPT. Her contributions have set the stage for future collaboration and advocacy in Region 5.
Affiliate Member Director
Maritza Valentin
National Account Manager
AMF-Bruns of America
Maritza ran uncontested and will continue her service with a second two-year term.
“My goal is to build bridges between industry partners and practitioners, advancing innovation while supporting safe, reliable, and equitable student transportation,” says Maritza.
As Affiliate Member Director, Maritza brings valuable perspective, bridging industry partners and members to strengthen the collective impact of NAPT.
Voices of Leadership
Molly McGee Hewitt,
NAPT CEO & Executive Director
“Elections are the heartbeat of our association. They remind us that every member has both a voice and a role in shaping our collective future. I am so proud of the candidates who stepped forward and of our members who participated. Together, we ensure NAPT remains strong and member-driven.”
Teena Mitchell, NAPT President
“Congratulations to all our newly elected leaders. I am inspired by the energy and dedication each of you brought to your campaigns and how you will use them to fuel your leadership and further our association.”
Keith Kaup, NAPT President-Elect
“Serving in leadership at NAPT is both an honor and a responsibility. I commend everyone who ran in this election—you are the foundation of our association’s strength. I look forward to welcoming Melody as our next President-Elect and working side by side with our directors to keep NAPT moving forward.”
Looking Ahead Together
Elections are more than outcomes. They are proof of a healthy, engaged membership that believes in the power of collective leadership.
Congratulations to the elected leaders, and thank you to every member who participated in this election. Together, we move forward—stronger, united, and ready to advance the vital work of student transportation.