Dr. Susanna Russell is the CEO of Education is Freedom (EIF), a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering underserved youth through education and mentorship. With nearly 40 years of experience in PK-12 public education, Dr. Russell brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership to her role.
A passionate advocate for equitable access to education, Dr. Russell began her career as a classroom teacher and quickly advanced to administrative positions, where she implemented innovative programs aimed at enhancing student engagement and academic achievement. Her commitment to fostering inclusive learning environments has been recognized through numerous awards and accolades throughout her career. Russell excelled in various roles, including teacher, campus administrator, executive director, associate superintendent, and chief officer in top-performing public-school districts across the state of Texas. Most recently, she served as the Chief Leadership Officer for Garland ISD, the second largest district in Dallas County. In that capacity, she successfully led initiatives in college, career, and military readiness – including establishing both an early college and a PTECHS at each of Garland ISD’s 7 high schools.
Since taking the helm of Education is Freedom in February 2024, Dr. Russell has shifted her focus to developing strategic partnerships and community initiatives that support the educational aspirations of young people. Her personal testimony as a former high school dropout feeds her unwavering belief in the power of a caring adult to change a student’s trajectory. She is a living example of the power of education to transform lives and future generations – the philosophy on which EIF was founded.
A proud graduate of Trinity University in San Antonio (B.A.) and the University of Texas at San Antonio (M.Ed.) – Dr. Russell holds a Doctorate in Education from The University of Texas at Austin in the elite Cooperative Superintendency Program. She is a sought-after speaker and trainer on topics related to educational equity, developing leaders, and student outcomes. She continues to inspire and lead with a vision of creating pathways to success for all students, ensuring that education remains a powerful tool for transformation and opportunity. Russell’s community connections also extend to her church family at Resurrection Lutheran Church, where she serves on Altar Guild, is a reader, and is a communion assistant.