Education has always represented possibility for Karina Pleitez — a first-generation college graduate and the proud daughter of Mexican immigrants. Now, as she pursues her Doctor of Educational Leadership (EdD) at Brockport, Pleitez is carrying that belief forward, using her own journey to inspire her children and future generations.
“It reflects the opportunities that education has created for me and the example I hope to set for my children,” said Pleitez. “I want them to see that learning does not end with a diploma and that pursuing your goals is a lifelong journey.”
Born and raised in Chicago, Pleitez earned her undergraduate degree from Georgetown University before moving to New York, where she built her career and started a family. For more than a decade, she has worked in New York City charter schools, helping students navigate their secondary and postsecondary journeys.
“This work is deeply meaningful to me because it connects my personal story with my professional purpose.”
Karina Pleitez
Today, she serves as the Director of Postsecondary Success at Vertex Partnership Academies in the Bronx, where she was a founding staff member.
“This work is deeply meaningful to me because it connects my personal story with my professional purpose,” said Pleitez.
Pursuing a doctoral degree while working full-time takes grit, especially for students like Pleitez.
“It takes intention, discipline, and grace,” Pleitez said. “I chose Brockport because it made pursuing a doctorate feel possible. The program’s flexibility allows me to continue serving students full-time while also being present for my family.”
“I chose Brockport because it made me feel like pursuing a doctorate feel possible.”
Karina Pleitez
For Pleitez, educational leadership is ultimately about creating opportunities and removing barriers so students can succeed.
“Educational leadership is more than managing schools or organizations,” Pleitez said. “It’s about creating opportunities, removing barriers and building systems where every student has the support they need to succeed.”
Pleitez encourages future students interested in educational leadership to identify what motivates them and allow that purpose to guide their work.
“If you are passionate about making a difference, this field will challenge you and give you the tools to turn that passion into lasting impact,” said Pleitez.