Sonja Brookins Santelises Takes Position at DC's Council on Foreign Relations

Sonja Brookins Santelises, who recently concluded a decade-long tenure as the CEO of Baltimore City Public Schools, is set to transition to a prominent role in Washington, D.C. She will serve as vice president, senior fellow, and director of the Richard Haass Center for Education at the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR), starting September 8.

The CFR, a century-old nonpartisan think tank, aims to inform the public about critical foreign policy issues facing the United States and the global community. David Rubenstein, owner of the Baltimore Orioles, chairs the organization’s board.

During her time in Baltimore, Santelises became the longest-serving superintendent in decades, focusing on enhancing educational experiences for students. Her new position will allow her to further her commitment to fostering civil discourse and respectful dialogue during a time of heightened political tension.

In a statement, Santelises expressed that her new role builds on her extensive experience with educators and emphasizes the importance of equipping teachers to engage students in meaningful discussions. “There’s no better time to talk about how teachers and educators facilitate civil conversations,” she noted.

CFR President Michael Froman welcomed Santelises, highlighting her expertise in public education and civil leadership as crucial to the organization’s mission. He emphasized that she brings a dedication to expanding access and fostering informed discussions, which were hallmarks of her leadership in Baltimore.

Santelises has also maintained a position as superintendent in residence at The Broad Center at Yale, which supports urban public school leaders. She plans to commute between the CFR offices in D.C. and New York while continuing to reside in Baltimore.

Reported by HarborBeat based on The Baltimore Banner (source).