She/Her/Hers
Claudia-Santi F. Fernandes, Ed.D., LPC is the Director of Research + Evaluation for Born This Way Foundation where she oversees the research strategy and provides scientific expertise in the design and implementation of the Foundation’s high-impact programs and youth-led initiatives. Claudia’s career has spanned over 20 years, during which she made significant contributions to the field of school-based mental health promotion and substance misuse prevention. She began her career as a public school teacher in Connecticut and bilingual school counselor in New York City, and is part of the founding leadership team at Bard High School Early College in Newark, NJ. She then transitioned to a fulfilling 10-year career in applied research at Yale University. She has published broadly in peer-reviewed journals as well as presented nationally on her research. Claudia is a prevention scientist with a doctoral degree in education (Ed.D.) and licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). For this reason, she brings a unique blend of academic expertise and practical experience to her approach. She is deeply committed to evidence-based research to inform youth-centered programs, policies, and structures. Central to her work is elevating youth perspectives and experiences.
You can follow Claudia on Instagram @drclaudiasantiBTWF and on Twitter at @DrClaudiaSantiF.