Debra Slagle

Debra Slagle joined Ayusa by Intrax as its Director of Program Support before becoming Executive Director. Debra has over 30 years of experience working in education and behavioral health. Prior to working with Ayusa, Debra spent 25 years in education, that last 18 as a school administrator. As a high school administrator, Debra has seen the incredibly positive impact that having exchange students attending can have on a learning community. Both the exchange students and American students have cultural experiences with a life-long impact, and learning becomes more relevant in this global society. Debra’s experience in international education includes starting an international high school program, being the PDSO for the international program, recruiting internationally and being the host parent for many international students, including hosting some Ayusa students through out the years. Debra is a certified school administrator and secondary education teacher, as well as a Licensed Professional Therapist. Prior to entering education, she was in the field of behavioral health, working primarily with children/teens and families. She earned Masters Degrees from Arizona State University and Northern Arizona University after getting her Bachelors Degree from the University of Tampa in Tampa, Florida. Debra is married and has two children and one grandchild. She enjoys writing, traveling, reading, gardening, doing home renovations/remodeling and just spending time at the beach.