Dr. Sonja Brookins ’85 Santelises – A Leader in Maryland’s Educational System

What a journey this has been for one of Fenwick’s most distinguished alums, Dr. Sonja Brookins ’85 Santelises! Sonja’s educational experience after Fenwick was most impressive – a BA in International Relations and Affairs from Brown University, a Master’s in Education from Columbia University, and a Doctor of Education Administration degree from Harvard University. It is abundantly clear that Sonja is a life-long learner.

Just as rich and fulfilling as her academic resume, Sonja has embraced an array of professional opportunities. In her early years, Sonja was the Director of Professional Development at Teach for America in NYC, as well as a classroom teacher and curriculum specialist at a middle school in Brooklyn. Sonja became a lecturer in the Urban Superintendent Program at Harvard, then transitioned to the Assistant Superintendent, and eventually Deputy Superintendent, in the Boston Public Schools. Continually seeking new ways to elevate the educational experience of young people, Sonja was named Vice President for Policy and Research at The Education Trust in DC. Sonja’s current job is the CEO of the entire Baltimore Public Schools System.

Sonja’s duties and responsibilities as the CEO of the Baltimore Public Schools are massive! She oversees a $1.7B budget, 77,000 students, 10,000 employees, and 135 schools. In her role, Sonja partners with the Board of School Commissioners to design the district’s strategic planning, oversees its performance, engages with community stakeholders, and spearheads the district’s institutional advancement. Sonja was publicly recognized this year for her superior educational leadership when she was nominated as one of the top four superintendents in the country!

When asked about her favorite class at Fenwick, Sonja quickly replied, “Mr. K! His class allowed students to debate their thoughts, views, and opinions. I often use the skills I learned in his class in my career today, realizing it is important to allow others to give their different views and to be respectful of other opinions.” When asked about her favorite Fenwick memory, Sonja replied, “My very first retreat with Fr. Dick Messina. I was not a practicing Catholic while at Fenwick and Fr. Messina taught me the love for Christ. The time for reflection at the retreat showed me how to live with Christ in my life each and every day.”

Sonja is a huge fan of Fenwick and all that it taught her. “I feel I have very high standards for myself, and Fenwick taught me these standards. It taught me writing, critical thinking, effective communication, listening to others, and getting along with diverse groups. I credit my Fenwick education for being able to write well, read well, and speak well. The school provided me with an amazing foundation, and it reinforced the values my parents were teaching me at home. I am forever grateful for my Fenwick experience!”

Thank you, Sonja, for taking time out of your incredibly busy day to offer your reflections on the Fenwick experience. We look forward to welcoming Sonja back to Fenwick in the near future to share her wisdom and insight with our students!