He began teaching at Anniston Elementary in 1983 while completing graduate school, and over the years, he has served as assistant principal at Bayou View Junior High, principal of Pass Christian Middle and High Schools, and principal of Anniston Elementary. His proven leadership led to his appointment as superintendent, where he has guided the Gulfport School District for nearly two decades. In addition to his local work, East serves as the Administrator Representative for the Mississippi Department of Education, shaping policy and leadership statewide.

East has also given his time generously to the community as a member of the Gulfport Rotary Club and longtime Scoutmaster for Boy Scout Troop 209. He and his wife, Beth, are the proud parents of two children, Sarah and Geoffrey, and the grandparents of five.

A strong supporter of Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College, East partnered with the college in 2016 to launch Collegiate Academy, a groundbreaking program that enables high school students to earn both a diploma and an associate degree simultaneously. Now in its ninth year, the program has provided life-changing opportunities for hundreds of students across the Coast. In recognition of his commitment, he was honored with the Spirit of Gulf Coast Award in 2016.

This year, MGCCC proudly presents Glen East with the Sam Owen Award, the college’s most prestigious honor, celebrating his unwavering dedication to improving educational opportunities for students in South Mississippi.