Dr. Sarah Leah Santillanes

I am Dr. Sarah Leah Santillanes, currently serving as an Assistant Professor and Department
Chair for Teacher Preparation at Huston-Tillotson University. My career in higher education
began in 2009 at Central New Mexico Community College, where I also taught adjunct classes
for the University of New Mexico and the University of North Carolina. Prior to my current role,
I held a similar position at New Mexico Highlands University.

My teaching journey spans over 26 years across all educational levels, from infants to doctoral
candidates. This diverse experience has equipped me with a profound ability to identify and
nurture potential teachers, particularly those from marginalized backgrounds. My ultimate goal is
to empower these students to return as educators in their communities, thereby addressing
systemic educational inequalities and providing role models for future generations.

My passion for education is deeply rooted in my childhood experiences as a Latina in a low-income, segregated area of Albuquerque, NM Witnessing the shortcomings of an education system with a high dropout rate and teachers frequently leaving for “better” schools inspired mydedication to teaching. Influential teachers from my community, who understood our struggles, set high expectations, and provided unwavering support, significantly shaped my life and career.

For me, teaching is not just a profession but an integral part of my identity. It involves a
reciprocal relationship where both teacher and students learn from each other, a belief that has
driven my career and fuels my ongoing commitment to education. I am dedicated to fostering
educational equity and supporting students in overcoming barriers, thereby creating a more
inclusive and just educational landscape.

In my administrative roles, I have demonstrated innovative leadership by managing outreach
duties, creating new degree programs, and significantly increasing department enrollments. My
research and presentations focus on critical pedagogy, racial and social justice, and the
experiences of minority students in education. I am committed to continuing this work and
contributing to the advancement of education for all students