We are pleased to welcome our new Director of the Principal Leadership Institute (PLI), Dr. Cynthia Gonzalez, a proud graduate of PLI, TEP, and ELP, and a long-standing leader in educational equity and social justice.
Dr. Gonzalez brings over two decades of experience in K-12 education and has served as a principal, the Director of LAUSD’s Pilot Schools, and a systems-level advocate for anti-racist, community-driven leadership. She is an innovative and equity-focused educator with deep roots in Southern California’s educational landscape. Her strong relationships with local and national leaders, from nonprofit organizations to school boards and elected officials, position her to advocate meaningfully for schools and communities across the region.
Dr. Gonzalez is committed to preparing socially just, action-oriented leaders who are ready to meet the evolving demands of California’s schools. Her vision for PLI is grounded in collaboration, community-based knowledge building, and strategic leadership that fosters lasting, equitable change.