Hall of Fame Inductee: Todd Finnell

Todd Finnell

Dr. Finnell was elected as Imperial County Superintendent of Schools in 2014, and has served 34 years in K-16 education as a classroom teacher, counselor, and administrator, and more than 19 years as faculty at San Diego State University preparing new teachers for the profession. His California credentials and certifications include Multiple Subject Teaching, Pupil Personnel Services, Administrative Services, and Chief Technology Officer.

In addition to his work in TK-12, Dr. Finnell served four years as Vice President for Student Services, Technology, and Research for Imperial Valley College. While in the college system, he championed access and equity for all students, and worked to strengthen collaboration among K-12 and higher education institutions.

Dr. Finnell earned his Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice Administration from San Diego State University, his Master’s in Education from University of Redlands, and his Doctorate in Educational Leadership from San Diego State University.

A sampling of awards and recognitions include ACSA Administrator of the Year, CCSESA Innovation in Technology Award, SDSU Exemplary Research and Practice Award, AESA Brian L. Talbott Award, CUE Technology in Learning Leadership Award, and the CENIC Gigabit or Bust Award.

Dr. Finnell was appointed in early 2024 to the Intergovernmental Advisory Committee (IAC) of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) where he helps guide policy related to broadband infrastructure and adoption. He currently serves as the President-Elect for the California County Superintendents and will serve as President in 2025-2026, and currently serves on the Boards of the California K-12 High Speed Network (K12HSN) and the Fiscal Crisis Management Assistance Team (FCMAT) along with several regional and local initiatives.

He has previously served as a board member and President (2012) of the California Education Technology Professionals Association (CETPA - now CITE) from 2006 to 2013, along with the Corporation for Education Network Initiatives in California (CENIC) from 2008 to 2015.

Dr. Finnell is pragmatic in his approach, and he’s passionate about serving families in pursuit of improving the quality of life for others. His high school sweetheart and wife of 34 years, Lillian (Garcia) Finnell, serves as CalWORKS Coordinator for Imperial Valley College. They have been blessed with three wonderful adult children who have also chosen education as their career field. They spend much of their time now spoiling their two young grandchildren and their fur-child, Kira (a rescue dog that has trained them well).

How long have you been in your current role and how did you get there?

"I was elected as Imperial County Superintendent of Schools in 2014, and have served 34 years in K-16 education as a classroom teacher, counselor, and administrator, and more than 19 years as faculty at San Diego State University preparing new teachers for the profession."

What's a recent win you've had at work?

"A recent win for the families and children of Imperial County has been the strengthening of our system to better meet the needs of students with disabilities, ensuring they have every opportunity to learn and grow in an inclusive environment."

How long have you been a CITE member? What is your favorite memory from a CITE event?

"I go back to the CEDPA days. I lived through the transition to CETPA, and more recently to CITE. My favorite memories of my time on the CETPA Board include the many relationships that have spanned my life's work in education. CITE is it's people, and I feel blessed to be part of the family!"

What do you do in your limited free time?

"I love to perform in my music projects. I also enjoy exploring our beautiful desert and mountain regions in our Jeep and enjoying the many hiking trails with friends and family."

Are there any special shout outs you'd like to give to someone in your life or the CITE community who has made a special impact on you?

"My wife, Lillian. She is my rock and definitely makes me a better person. She has supported me throughout my career and I look forward to traveling the world with her in retirement."

If someone is intimidated or reluctant to get involved with CITE, what advice would you give them?

"It's incredibly important to be part of a community in your profession. Being involved in CITE makes you part of a supportive and encouraging community that will have lasting impact on your personal and professional development. CITE is an extraordinary organization that is welcoming and supportive for those in IT, recognizing that our roles can sometimes be lonely and misunderstood in a district or LEA. Networking with others in your job role is critically important."