Dr. Leslie Chang

Dr. Leslie Chang is a dedicated advocate for underserved and historically marginalized communities, driven by her personal journey as a first-generation immigrant and the first in her family to graduate from college. Born to a Nicaraguan mother and Chinese father, and raised in Pico Union and Northeast Los Angeles, Dr. Chang has spent over two decades transforming the educational landscape for students and families who are often overlooked. Her unwavering belief that every child can achieve excellence has shaped her career and commitment to equity.

Currently serving as Chief of Staff at Mass Insight Education and Research, Dr. Chang leads the Office of People and Culture, DEI, Advancement, and Marketing, Communications, and Storytelling. Her leadership is grounded in a deep passion for fostering inclusive, thriving communities, where staff feel seen, empowered, and equipped to realize their greatest potential. Previously, Dr. Chang held numerous influential roles, including CEO, Chief Schools Officer, Superintendent, and Principal, where she consistently led schools to exceed district and state performance benchmarks. Her founding of a culturally responsive teacher residency program at PUC Schools, aimed at developing a diverse teacher pipeline, stands as a testament to her belief in the power of representation in education.

Dr. Chang’s work extends beyond the classroom. She is an advocate for empowering Latinx families as leaders and change-makers and serves as a professor preparing leaders of social justice at Loyola Marymount University. Additionally, as a board member of Visionary Youth Los Angeles, she continues to champion youth development and mental well-being for students residing in the highest need neighborhoods.

Outside of her professional endeavors, she cherishes time with her husband Steve, sons Ray and Ian, and a vibrant network of family and friends, celebrating culture, music, community, and the blessings life has to offer.