This article is one of a series of articles produced by Word in Black through support provided by the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative. Word In Black is a collaborative of 10 Black-owned media outlets across the country.
By Aaron Allen, The Seattle Medium
The Alliance for Education has named Roxanne Christian as its new president, concluding a national search conducted by the Seattle Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce and executive search firm NextDeavor. This selection signals a renewed commitment to equity, collaboration, and systems-level change in Seattle’s public education landscape.
Christian officially stepped into the role this month after leading some of the Alliance’s most high-impact initiatives in recent years. For her, this leadership position is more than a professional milestone—it is a deeply personal return to the work that has defined her career and shaped her values.
“My commitment to this work is deeply personal. I know what it feels like to navigate barriers that education can and should help remove,” said Christian. “I was supported by teachers, mentors, family and neighbors who saw potential in me when life was unpredictable, and that shaped who I am as a leader today.”
A purpose-driven leader with more than 20 years of experience in public education, Christian previously spent nearly 15 years at the University of Washington, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology and a Master of Education in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies. Her academic focus included higher education and corporate social responsibility, equipping her with the tools to address the intersection of systems and communities.
As the Alliance’s former chief advancement officer, Christian led the organization’s integrated strategy in fundraising, communications, stakeholder engagement, and constituent relations. She was at the forefront of efforts to keep students connected and supported during the COVID-19 pandemic, helping raise $3 million to address learning loss, provide 10,000 laptops, and deliver 25,000 meals. She also oversaw a successful fundraising campaign for the Office of African American Male Achievement (AAMA), exceeding its goal and securing $4 million in philanthropic support.
“Leading the Alliance isn’t just a professional milestone, it’s a full-circle moment,” Christian said. “I’m honored to serve alongside a team and community that believes in the power of public education to change lives. My focus moving forward is on creating stability, clarity and opportunity so every student in Seattle Public Schools feels seen, supported and prepared for whatever path they choose.”
The Alliance, which has served as a key partner to Seattle Public Schools for over 30 years, connects private philanthropy and public systems to promote racial equity and educational justice. Under Christian’s leadership, the organization is expected to deepen that work through stronger community relationships and a laser focus on students furthest from opportunity.
“This moment calls for bold, values-driven leadership,” said Grace Fosado, chair of the Alliance’s Board of Directors. “Leadership that doesn’t settle for incremental fixes but works to transform systems so that every student has what they need to thrive. Roxanne Christian is that leader. She brings a distinctive blend of strategic thinking, relational leadership and equity-informed practice to every aspect of her work. The Board of Directors expresses its full confidence and deep enthusiasm in welcoming Roxanne as president.”
Fred Podesta, acting superintendent of Seattle Public Schools, said Christian’s experience in both community partnerships and system-building will be critical to advancing student outcomes.
“The Alliance for Education plays an essential role in aligning the district’s goals with the support of our broader community,” said Podesta. “Roxanne’s deep understanding of both systems and relationships will strengthen that alignment and help ensure that every investment of time, talent and resources directly benefits Seattle students. We look forward to continuing our strong partnership under her leadership.”
Christian’s leadership philosophy is rooted in the idea that change requires persistence and collective courage. She believes that real progress happens when relationships are honored, voices are elevated, and action is tied to a long-term vision.
“Her ability to bring people together across sectors to get real results for students is exactly what Seattle’s education system needs,” said Dwane Chappelle, director of the City of Seattle Department of Education and Early Learning. “This is a moment that calls for collaboration and courage, and Roxanne embodies both. We are excited to continue partnering and aligning our work with the Alliance, the city and the district to make sure students have all the resources and opportunities they deserve to excel.”
As the Alliance evolves to meet new educational challenges, Christian’s collaborative leadership style is expected to deepen its community impact.
“Roxanne’s leadership reflects the courage and commitment our community needs right now,” said Michelle Merriweather, president and CEO of the Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle. “She understands that advancing educational justice isn’t just about programs, it’s about transforming systems. The Alliance for Education is in powerful hands, and I couldn’t
be more excited to see how Roxanne continues building bridges between our schools, partners and communities.”
That bridge-building ability is a recurring theme among community leaders who have worked with Christian.
“Roxanne brings a rare blend of strategic vision and deep authenticity,” said Liz Huizar, executive director of the Southeast Seattle Education Coalition. “She leads with heart and clarity, always moving from conversation to action in a way that honors both people and purpose. Her leadership reflects a real understanding of what communities need and what’s possible when we listen, build trust, and stay rooted in equity.”
Under Christian’s guidance, the Alliance will continue to serve as a convener, collaborator, and champion for students across Seattle. She envisions a future where partnerships are not just transactional, but transformational—centered on student voice, family engagement, and shared responsibility.
“Her appointment marks an exciting new chapter for the Alliance and a powerful step forward in how philanthropy and public education can partner in service of students, families, and educators,” said Huizar.
