Charis Anderson
Senior Director of Communications
Overview
Charis Anderson is the senior director of communications for Deans for Impact. Prior to joining Deans for Impact, she was the director of publications for a Boston-based national education nonprofit. Charis also worked as a reporter at a local newspaper in Massachusetts, for an independent high school in San Francisco, and at a management consulting firm. Charis received her bachelor’s degree in psychology from Williams College and her master’s degree in journalism from Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism.
Our member deans’ desire to engage in honest, self-reflective discussion and debate about what it will take to transform teacher preparation creates a real opportunity to help build consensus on these issues across the field as a whole.
When/why did you start working in education?
About six years ago, I convinced the editor of the newspaper at which I was then working to create an education beat because I thought the community needed to know more about what was happening in its schools. Covering the school system in New Bedford, Mass., was a great introduction to the fascinating complexities of the country’s educational system.
Why were you excited to join Deans for Impact?
I think a critical part of improving K-12 education is figuring out how to better prepare future educators – and the deep commitment of the member deans of Deans for Impact to tackling this complex and urgent topic is inspiring. I am excited to be part of the organization stewarding this important work.
Why do Deans for Impact’s guiding principles ring true for you?
As a former reporter, transparency is a principle I hold near and dear. Our member deans’ desire to engage in honest, self-reflective discussion and debate about what it will take to transform teacher preparation creates a real opportunity to help build consensus on these issues across the field as a whole.
Who was your favorite teacher and why?
Mr. Hall, my high school calculus teacher, has a special place in my heart. Calculus was an uphill battle for me, but Mr. Hall’s love for and excitement about the material he was teaching made me look forward to every class.
What’s your favorite food truck and why?
Torchy’s Tacos. They have a taco with smoked brisket, grilled onions and avocado. So delicious.