Stephens Named New GCS Chief of Staff

Nov. 19, 2024 – Dr. Sonya Stephens has been named Chief of Staff for Guilford County Schools (GCS), following a four-month period as interim Chief of Staff.

As chief of staff, she will work closely with Superintendent Dr. Whitney Oakley on strategic projects, policy development, governmental relations and other district objectives.

“As a member of my cabinet, Dr. Stephens has proven to be a trusted advisor with an insightful point of view,” says Oakley. “I value her data-driven focus and understanding of the complex issues we face in public education.”

Stephens previously served as the district’s Chief Performance Officer for three years. In that role, she oversaw state assessments, data analytics, student information, research, reporting and evaluation. She spent seven years as senior director of school accountability and six years as a data trainer with Wake County Public School System.

Stephens holds a bachelor’s degree in communications from University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, a master’s degree in counselor education from North Carolina A&T State University and a doctoral degree in leadership for learning and service from Cardinal Stritch University. She also completed a strategic data project fellowship with Harvard University.