Adriana Gonzalez understands she’s much more than an educator.

As a Latina and principal at De Anza Middle School in Ontario, Gonzalez models both leadership and possibility, particularly for the students who look like her.

“I wanted my children to see me as a role model and source of inspiration,” Gonzalez says. “You never should stop learning and growing.”

Gonzalez was inspired to pursue K-12 education with this strong sense of purpose in mind. Since her 2016 appointment as principal at De Anza, the school has been named a state and national “School to Watch,” in 2018, 2021, and 2023. De Anza also has received a California Gold Ribbon School, a Title I Achieving School designation, a California Pivotal Practice Award and Gold Level Recognition from the California PBIS Coalition. In 2022, the school hosted U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona.

Gonzalez, who earned a bachelor’s in American studies and communication from Stanford University and a master’s in educational leadership at UCLA, completed her doctoral degree in educational leadership at Cal Poly Pomona in 2021.

“My doctoral studies and research directly impact the job I do because the process made me a better leader and educator,” Gonzalez says. “Every decision and choice are filtered through an equity lens that I developed through my experiences as a Cal Poly Pomona doctoral student.”

She credits her experience at CPP for equipping her with vital skills needed for serving as a principal, which serves 513 students. The emphasis on research during her doctoral program was instrumental professionally, she says, adding that her dissertation was focused on delving deeper into the Latino community, giving her the opportunity to further understand the needs of students and their families.

“My doctoral studies and research directly impact the job I do because the process made me a better leader and educator,” Gonzalez says. “Every decision and choice are filtered through an equity lens that I developed through my experiences as a Cal Poly Pomona doctoral student.”

One person at Cal Poly Pomona who significantly impacted Gonzalez’s journey was Professor Betty Alford, her mentor and a member of her dissertation committee, who provided invaluable support and guidance. Even after graduation, Alford continues to be a source of inspiration and connection for Gonzalez.

Gonzalez recognizes that everyone has unique strengths and will encounter many challenges but believes that to make an impact on people, it’s a priority to align excitement and commitment.

“Find the way to mix your passion and serve communities.”