Sonia is the Program Assistant for the Doctoral Program in Organizational Leadership at Hood College. Born to a Pakistani father and Colombian mother, she brings a global perspective and a strong commitment to inclusion and service to her work in education, youth services, and public service.

She holds a B.A. from the University of Maryland, College Park, an M.S. from the University of Maryland Global Campus, an executive certificate in Nonprofit Management from Georgetown University, and a certificate in Women’s Leadership from Cornell University.

A former Miss Maryland (2000), Sonia championed character-building programs for youth in underserved communities. In 2016, she founded the Miss Maryland Sorority to unite former titleholders and provide scholarship and mentorship opportunities to young women.

Sonia brings a diverse and accomplished professional background rooted in public service, advocacy, and youth development. She has held key leadership roles with the Maryland Recreation and Parks Association, the National Recreation and Park Association, M-NCPPC, the Department of Juvenile Justice, and the Prince George’s County State’s Attorney’s Office.

A longtime Frederick County resident, Sonia remains passionate about using her experience to serve her community and support the next generation of leaders.