
FELLOW
LEENA BAKSHI
DIRECTORY | FELLOW PROFILE

LEENA BAKSHI
TITLE
Executive Director
ORGANIZATION
STEM4Real
BIOGRAPHY
Leena Bakshi McLean is the founder and chief executive officer of STEM4Real, a nonprofit professional learning organization dedicated to integrating science, mathematics, STEM, computer science, and artificial intelligence content with principles of justice-centered teaching and leadership. She has raised over $1 million in grant funding to support schools and districts. She serves on the board of directors for the National Science Teaching Association, previously served on the boards of the California Association of Science Educators and the Hawaii Science Teachers Association, and is a member of the STEMM Opportunity Alliance through the Office of the White House.
Leena has served as an adjunct professor of education at the University of California, Berkeley, and Claremont Graduate University, where she designed graduate-level coursework for teacher candidates in STEM, mathematics, and equity-centered pedagogy. Previously, Leena served as a district and county-level administrator, leading national and international professional development programs focused on equity-driven STEM, artificial intelligence, and computer science learning. Earlier in her career, she taught secondary science and mathematics in California public schools.
Leena is the author of the USA Today bestselling book, STEM for ALL: How to Connect, Create, and Cultivate STEM Education for All Learners. Her other publications include "Science Teaching and Anti-Racism" in Next Gen Navigator and the children's book, "There's Something in the Water" showcasing real life scientist, Dr. Tyrone B. Hayes. Each year, she convenes education leaders from across the globe at the STEM for ALL Leadership Symposium, a gathering dedicated to advancing equity, access, and opportunity in STEM education.
Leena earned her Doctor of Education from the University of Southern California and holds California teaching and administrative credentials. She is currently participating in the Urban Superintendent's Academy through the American Association of School Administrators and the University of Southern California.
