Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – Monday was a night for new leadership in Springfield Public Schools. The board elected Erica Austin (pictured, center) president and Buffy Lael-Wolf vice president. They were the only nominees for those position, and Austin, who had been vice president, succeeds Micah Miller.

“I do not take this role lightly and appreciate your belief that I will lead this board to the best of my ability,” said Austin. “While I may not always get it right, I am eager to learn from my mistakes to ensure we make the best decisions possible.

“If we are endowed with talents, wealth, knowledge, time, or other gifts, we are expected to use them wisely to glorify God.”

The board also seated its only new member, Kristin Barnett. She defeated incumbent Tony Mares in the April 1 election.