Dr. Sullivan-Kowalski brings 30 years of experience in educational leadership across Connecticut. As Assistant Superintendent for Meriden Public Schools, she directed and oversaw Meriden’s special education, related services and counseling, leading 200 staff members and managing a $40 million dollar budget. She has led numerous district-wide initiatives focused on instructional excellence, student supports, and family-school partnerships, and as supervisor of several schools, she fostered strong leadership and teamwork, student success and operational efficiency. She holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership with a concentration in Comparative Education from the University of Bridgeport, a Sixth-Year Certificate in Educational Leadership from Southern Connecticut State University, and a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology, as well as a Bachelor of Science from Ithaca College. Her doctoral research explored continuous professional development for principals, emphasizing the challenges faced by school leaders in urban settings.

Dr. Sullivan-Kowalski is deeply dedicated to supporting all students, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive. She has built meaningful partnerships among families, district leaders and staff to collaborate on student academic achievement and well being. She is also recognized for resource stewardship, aligning district goals with the values of the community.