Dr. Searetha Smith-Collins Dr. Searetha Smith-Collins is educational thought leader and strategist, and Chief Academic Officer at 7 Mindsets, the leader in online social emotional learning (SEL) solutions. Searetha has a proven record in identifying, driving, and leading substantive change, innovation, and initiatives in education. A former elementary school teacher and school principal, Smith-Collins held district leadership positions in curriculum and instruction, alignment, and accountability, and has an extensive background in equity, multi-cultural education, Pre-K-Grade 12 education, teaching and learning, social-emotional learning, and educational leadership. Smith-Collins has held district and superintendent-level positions in Seattle and Washington State, Richmond, VA, and Washington, DC and Baltimore, MD where she was Chief Academic Officer. Additionally, she has been a school board member and the president of the Seattle Association of Elementary School Principals. Searetha is recognized for her expertise in curriculum development and integrating principles of inclusion and equity as foundational to learning. In addition to being a sought-after speaker and presenter, Smith-Collins is the author of white papers, articles, and books, including “The Equity Agenda: Responding to the Needs of Diverse Learners,” The Critical Ingredients to Early Learning,” and “Leadership Training and Cultural Diversity.” In addition, she participates in professional organizations and is a charter member of the National Museum of African American History & Culture. She has held various senior positions in large education technology companies, including strategic urban initiatives manager at Apple Computers, vice-president of federal initiatives at SpectrumK12, and a senior education consultant at Promethean USA, among others. “I am excited to be serving educators, students, and families to help transform education and build positive and happy humans, said Smith-Collins. “More than ever before, the education community has a greater need for understanding how to create understanding for a more just and equitable world. My passion is to help identify research-based and creative ways to address the needs of all learners, including bringing joy that leads to happiness and success. Searetha lives in Washington, DC where her favorite past times are shopping, collecting unique antiques, and enjoying family life.