The local education fund for Seattle Public Schools has named a new President following a rigorous executive search: Roxanne Christian. Christian is a known community leader with over 20 years in public education and philanthropy.
On behalf of the Alliance for Education, the Board of Directors is proud to announce that following a rigorous executive search conducted by the Seattle Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce and NextDeavor, Roxanne Christian has been named President of the Alliance for Education, effective immediately.
Roxanne Christian is a mission-focused, purpose-driven leader with over two decades of experience advancing equity through public education, philanthropy and community-centered partnership. Christian brings a unique blend of strategic thinking, relational leadership and equity-informed practice to every aspect of her work.
Since joining the Alliance in 2019 as Vice President of Advancement, she has played a central role in strengthening the organization’s mission, partnerships and impact. Christian has led the Alliance’s integrated advancement strategy overseeing fundraising, stakeholder engagement, strategic communications and constituent relations in alignment with the organization’s mission to advance educational justice and racial equity across Seattle Public Schools.
Her leadership through the COVID-19 pandemic fundraised $3M to address learning loss, provide 10,000 laptops for remote learning and fulfill 25,000 meals for students. She also led and exceeded the fundraising goal for Seattle Public Schools’ Office of African American Male Achievement (AAMA), resulting in a founding gift of $4M in philanthropic support.
Under her guidance, the Alliance has deepened its role as both a philanthropic partner and convener working to mobilize resources, strengthen systems and ensure students furthest from educational justice receive the support they need to thrive.
“The Alliance for Education plays an essential role in aligning the district’s goals with the support of our broader community,” says Fred Podesta, Superintendent of Seattle Public Schools. “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 is a lifelong advocate for educational opportunity, believing that real change within complex systems does not happen overnight—and that meaningful progress toward equity requires persistence, partnership, and courage. Her approach embodies the Alliance’s belief that justice is a long-term commitment, not a convenience.
“This moment in public education calls for bold, values-driven leadership—leadership that doesn’t settle for incremental fixes around the edges but works to transform systems so that every student has what they need to thrive. Roxanne Christian is that leader,” says Grace Fosado, Alliance for Education Board of Directors Chair. “The Board of Directors expresses its full confidence and deep enthusiasm in welcoming Roxanne as President.”
For 30 years, the Alliance has served a unique and vital role in Seattle connecting private partners and public leaders to advance racial equity and educational justice in our schools. As a convener, collaborator and champion for students, the Alliance brings critical resources into Seattle Public Schools that help every student reach their full potential.
As the Alliance embarks on this next chapter, our mission remains steadfast: to advance racial equity and educational justice in Seattle Public Schools. Under Christian’s leadership and the continued partnership of our educators, families, donors and community we will keep working toward a more just and thriving future for all Seattle students.
Prior to joining the Alliance, Christian spent nearly 15 years working at the University of Washington, where she holds a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology and a Master of Education in Educational Leadership & Policy Studies, with a focus on higher education and corporate social responsibility.
Statements of Support from Community Leaders
“Roxanne’s leadership reflects the courage and commitment our community needs right now. 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.”
Michelle Merriweather, President and CEO, Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle
“Roxanne has always led with purpose and heart, grounded in equity and community. Her ability to bring people together across sectors to get real results for students is exactly what Seattle’s education system needs. 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.”
Dwane Chappelle, Director, City of Seattle Department of Education and Early Learning
“Roxanne brings a rare blend of strategic vision and deep authenticity. 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. Roxanne being named the next President 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.”
Liz Huizar, Executive Director, Southeast Seattle Education Coalition
About the Alliance for Education
For 30 years, the Alliance for Education has worked in partnership with Seattle Public Schools to address crucial challenges facing students, families and educators. Our mission is to support excellence in education by advancing educational justice and racial equity for students in Seattle Public Schools. Our work is collaborative as we seek to address systemic inequities in public schools and create a more equitable and just education system that allows all Seattle students to thrive.