Meet the Deans
Sakina Bolden is a dedicated education leader with a passion for transforming futures and championing equitable learning opportunities for all. With over a decade of experience in educational leadership roles and 24 years of educating thousands of students and staff, she has consistently spearheaded initiatives to enhance student achievement and create inclusive learning environments.
Currently serving as the Dean of University K-12 Academy, Sakina is poised to lead the newly merged institution into a future Academic Distinction, Effective Communication, Distinguished Leadership, and Innovative Perseverance. Her leadership style emphasizes proactive mindfulness, academic ownership, and effective communication, fostering confidence, perseverance, resilience, and innovation among all students.
Sakina’s notable achievements include the creation of River Rouge STEMM Academy for grades K-8 and the transformation of instructional frameworks at River Rouge High School. She has also led significant reforms at Frederick Douglass Academy, GIS NAF Academy within DPSCD, as well as the renovation, relaxation and transformation of the Detroit International Academy for Young Women, focusing on Biomedical, Science and Veterinary Medicine for K-12 students. Sakina has continually demonstrated her commitment to advancing STEMM education and ensuring that all students have access to innovative and effective learning opportunities.
Meet the Associates Deans
Martin Sanford
High School Associate Dean
Mr. Martin Sanford serves as the 9th through 12th-grade associate dean. With 35 years of dedicated service in education, Mr. Sanford truly embodies our academy’s mission. A cornerstone of our community, he has been instrumental in the success of the University High School Academy since its inception. Mr. Sanford’s experience, leadership, and unwavering commitment to our students and staff will be invaluable as he steps into this new role.
Kathy Slate
Middle School Associate Dean
Mrs. Kathy Slate serves as the 6th through 8th-grade associate dean. Throughout her 20 years of dedicated service in Southfield Public Schools, Mrs. Slate’s passion for teaching and her commitment to fostering a supportive learning environment has been unmatched. Her vision and solution-oriented approach have significantly impacted student achievement and teacher growth. Mrs. Slate’s leadership will continue to drive academic excellence within our middle school community.