What happens when ambition meets adversity in the pursuit of educational equity? Can transformative leadership overcome deeply entrenched systemic challenges to create meaningful change?

Julia Keleher is the former Secretary of the Puerto Rico Department of Education and the founder and CEO of Solution Partners, a consultancy focused on bridging strategy and execution. Known for her ambitious reforms during her tenure, including modernizing the curriculum, improving teacher training, and restructuring the island’s education system, Julia’s career has been a blend of innovation, controversy, and resilience. Her journey took a dramatic turn in 2019 when she faced legal challenges, served time in prison, and emerged with a renewed perspective on leadership and advocacy.

In this episode, Julia shares the story of her groundbreaking yet polarizing tenure as Puerto Rico’s Secretary of Education. She reflects on leading the department during Hurricane Maria, spearheading school closures and consolidations, and advocating for systemic change in one of the most underfunded education systems in the United States. Julia discusses the tough decisions she made, the backlash she faced, and the lessons she learned about balancing data-driven solutions with the human experience.

We also explore her time in prison, where she continued her work in education by teaching and mentoring incarcerated women. Julia provides a candid look at her personal growth, the flaws in the U.S. criminal justice system, and how these experiences have shaped her vision for equitable education and systemic reform.

This compelling episode offers a unique perspective on leadership, resilience, and the complexities of navigating public education. Whether you’re an educator, policymaker, or advocate for social justice, Julia’s story provides profound insights into the challenges and possibilities of transformative change.