TRACIE SANLIN
CEO
Tracie Sanlin, the esteemed CEO of Chicago Collegiate, is a true embodiment of dedication and commitment to the city of Chicago and the vibrant Roseland community. With a rich family legacy spanning four generations of teachers and three generations of Chicago educators, Ms. Sanlin's roots run deep in the educational fabric of the city. Her family's active involvement in the greater Roseland community and schools for nearly six decades is a testament to their unwavering support and belief in the power of education.
Before becoming the CEO at Chicago Collegiate, Ms. Sanlin held various positions within the education field. She started her career as a middle school social studies teacher and later transitioned into Saturday Academy Director and School Operations Manager roles. She also served as a contract Principal in the Chicago Public Schools system. Ms. Sanlin has a B.A. in American Ethnic Studies from the University of Washington, an M.A. in Elementary Education from Loyola Marymount University, and an M.Ed from Harvard Graduate School of Education in School Leadership. She has also won multiple awards for her school leadership and is a published author.
Ms. Sanlin's drive and genuine love for education are the driving forces behind her leadership at Chicago Collegiate as she strives to maintain the school's commitment to excellence. With her extensive experience and unwavering dedication, Ms. Sanlin is poised to lead Chicago Collegiate toward continued success.
"Where Excellence Is A Habit"
It is my privilege to lead Chicago Collegiate and the many talented teachers and students here! I look forward to partnering with our stakeholders to advance all areas at Collegiate (academics, athletics, and fine arts). As the CEO, it is my charge to lead our network so that our scholars can do more today, than they did yesterday, and change the world!
TIESHIA ROBINSON
Principal
Ms. Robinson, a Texas native, obtained her bachelor's degree from the University of Houston-Downtown. In 2015, she achieved a master's degree in Education Administration from Grand Canyon University in Phoenix, Arizona, graduating Magna Cum Laude. Over the past seven years, she held various instructional leadership roles, including Instructional Specialist, Magnet Coordinator, Graduation Coach, and Assistant Principal. most recently as the Dean of Instruction at Young Women's College Preparatory Academy in the Houston Independent School District.
From teacher to graduation coach, department coach to magnet coordinator and assistant principal, Ms. Robinson has consistently excelled in diverse roles throughout her career. She has successfully guided teachers to improve AP scores and increased student proficiency on STAAR end-of-course testing by 18%, enabling scholars to graduate from high school. Her passion lies in creating opportunities for diverse children to achieve their utmost potential.
Throughout her professional journey, Ms. Robinson has consistently demonstrated her commitment to serving those in need, bringing her expertise and compassion to every classroom she enters. Whenever she gets the chance, she heads back to her roots in Houston, Texas to catch up with her cherished family and friends. Ms. Robinson's treasured quote, by Oprah Winfrey.
"You have to know what sparks the light in you so you can illuminate the world"
ANTWAN MCPHERSON
Network Team Executive Assistant
Antwan McPherson serves as the Network Team Executive Assistant at Chicago Collegiate, playing a pivotal role in supporting the network's expansion and development. Antwan's connection with Chicago Collegiate began in August 2013 when he joined as a founding 4th grader. His leadership skills quickly became apparent as he became the first student body president in 7th grade and graduated salutatorian of his 8th-grade class. He continued to serve as president until his sophomore year of high school and then took on the role of student council senior advisor in his junior year, fostering leadership opportunities among his peers.
Throughout his tenure leading the student council, Antwan and his peers achieved notable successes, including bridging the gap between student expectations and behaviors, coordinating homecoming performances, advocating for student concerns, speaking at CPS board meetings, volunteering at community events, and initiating a Big Brother, Big Sister mentorship program.
In his senior year, Antwan was appointed as the Network Team Executive Assistant by CEO Tracie Sanlin. He graduated third in his class and received a full-ride scholarship to Tennessee State University (TSU). However, he chose to follow his dream of attending North Carolina A&T, where he is currently studying business management and is set to graduate in May 2026. Antwan plans to continue his education by attending law school to obtain a Juris Doctorate, aspiring to become a criminal defense attorney to better serve his community and "rehabilitate our youth."
Antwan's dedication to leadership, education, and community service makes him an invaluable member of the Chicago Collegiate Network Team, contributing significantly to the organization's mission and vision. Mr. Pherson's treasured quote is by: R.J. Smith
"Nothing beats a failure but a try."
TAMMY LEWIS - KELTON
Director of School Operations
From the west side of Chicago, Mrs. Lewis-Kelton's unwavering passion for education and commitment to student and family empowerment have shaped her remarkable journey. She embarked on her academic path at Indiana State University, earning both her Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Criminology and Criminal Justice through sheer determination and perseverance.
Early in her career, Mrs. Lewis-Kelton dedicated herself to creating pathways for students and families to access post-secondary education. She provided invaluable guidance and support as they navigated the journey to college or university, explored employment opportunities, and considered trade options. Her experience as a second-grade teacher assistant allowed her to nurture young minds and instill a lifelong love of learning.
Presently, Mrs. Lewis-Kelton is advancing her own education by pursuing an Ed.D in Education and Ethical Leadership from Olivet Nazarene University. Embracing the challenges of distance learning, she remains committed to excelling in her studies through the university's online program. Her dedication to education is paralleled by her unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional customer service to families and children, ensuring they receive the best possible support and guidance.
Mrs. Lewis-Kelton's treasured quote is by: George Washington Carver
"Education is the key to unlock the golden door to freedom. "
DERRICK PYLE
Director of Special Education
Born and raised in the vibrant city of South Bend, Indiana, Mr. Pyle's journey has been nothing short of remarkable. With a deep sense of patriotism and a desire to serve his country, he made the life-changing decision to join the United States Marine Corps in 2007. For eight years, he dedicated himself to the Corps, displaying unwavering commitment and earning an Honorable Discharge in 2015.
Education has always been a driving force in Mr. Pyle's life, and after his military service, he pursued his passion for learning. He enrolled at Indiana University, where he earned a Bachelor's of Science degree in Criminal Justice. However, his thirst for knowledge did not stop there. In 2012, he seized the opportunity to join the prestigious Philadelphia Teaching Fellows, an organization dedicated to transforming academic outcomes and bridging the achievement gap in educationally underserved neighborhoods.
As Mr. Pyle embarked on his teaching career in inner city Philadelphia, he recognized the importance of equipping himself with the necessary skills to make a lasting impact on his students' lives. Balancing his teaching responsibilities with his own educational pursuits, he enrolled at Chestnut Hill College and obtained a Master's Degree in Education with a specialization in Special Education in 2014. His dedication and exceptional teaching abilities were recognized when he was voted Teacher of the Year at Universal Creighton Charter School in 2019.
Mr. Pyle made the decision to relocate to Chicago with his family, where he eagerly accepted a Case Manager position at Chicago Collegiate Charter School. With his infectious enthusiasm and ability to infuse joy into every classroom, he is determined to make a positive difference in the lives of his students at Collegiate.
"We Are Collegiate"
REENA SMITH
Director of Marketing and Development
As the newly appointed Director of Development and Partnerships, Ms. Smith has become an integral part of the Chicago Collegiate community. With her expertise, she takes charge of the branding and marketing strategies, ensuring that the institution's image is effectively communicated. Moreover, she leads the fundraising initiatives and establishes corporate partnerships, aiming to enhance the educational experience for both present and future students. Ms. Smith's unwavering dedication lies in enriching the educational journey of all current and prospective students at Chicago Collegiate.
During the early stages of her career, Ms. Smith held several leadership positions within the Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority (MPEA), which owned and operated McCormick Place and historic Navy Pier where her career began as an Event Manager at the McCormick Place. She later transitioned to the Authority's Corporate Communication Department, serving as a Corporate Communications Assistant and Public Relations Assistant for the historic Navy Pier.
The former Executive Assistant to the CEO and Board of Officers at the South-Southwest Suburban Regional Office (SSW) of United Way of Metropolitan Chicago (UWMC) she managed corporate partners and secured donations from high net worth individuals to support UWMC mission. Ms. Smith implemented innovative outreach programs that are still being utilized by United Way of Metro Chicago today.
Most recently, as the Community Liaison for The Southland Human Services Leadership Council (SHSLC). Ms. Smith managed the Board and Executive leadership, increased recruitment and outreach, executed Council events, developed and managed all marketing materials, collaborated with internal and external stakeholders for the purpose of building effective communication, enhancing relationships. Ms Smith graduated from Lewis University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Public Relations and Marketing.
A literature enthusiast Ms. Smith finds solace in her extensive book collection. She also has a passion for gardening, caring for over 50 indoor plants. In addition to being a dedicated mother of three, she is a professional photographer who captures the beauty of the world. Art is her muse, and she enjoys exploring various artistic expressions.
Ms. Smith's treasured quote is by: Ghandi
"Be the change you want to see in the world"
GRETCHEN THOMAS
Admission Recruiter
Born and raised on the south side of Chicago, Ms. Thomas has a deep connection to her hometown. After completing her education at Mississippi Valley State University and Argosy University, where she focused on Psychology and Child Development, she discovered her true passion for working with children. Despite holding positions in case management and human resources, she always found herself gravitating towards roles that allowed her to make a positive impact on the lives of young individuals.
Throughout her career, Ms. Thomas has had the opportunity to work with various educational institutions, including CPS, YMCA of Metro Chicago, and Catalyst Charter School system. However, what truly sets Chicago Collegiate Charter School apart for her is the shared vision among its members. At this institution, everyone is dedicated to instilling the value of education in children and emphasizing that success is not easily achieved but certainly attainable. This alignment of purpose and commitment to the betterment of students' lives is what Ms. Thomas finds most fulfilling about her role at Chicago Collegiate Charter School.
"We Are Collegiate"