Dr. Sonaliz Morel-Baker has never allowed her circumstance to determine her reality. A Brooklyn native and oldest daughter of two, Dr. Morel-Baker witnessed first-hand, the many hardships faced by her single, immigrant mother from the Dominican Republic. As a young girl, she used music and dance as an escape. A natural-born leader and highly talented performer, she honed her craft on the theatrical stage and faced many obstacles as an Afro-Latina artist. Experiencing bigotry and bias throughout her childhood, made her tenacious and resilient when tackling life’s hurdles. Her lived experiences along with her involvement in various community-led organizations helped cultivate her lifelong passion for social justice and equity. Dr. Morel-Baker became a founding member of the Harvey Milk High School staff, at the Hetrick-Martin Institute—the first fully-accredited public school dedicated to serving LGBTQ+ youth. A tenacious fundraiser, Dr. Morel-Baker has raised over $14M, over the course of her 20+ year career, for organizations such as Bank Street College of Education and New Jersey City University, among other reputable institutions. A passionate supporter of women's causes, Dr. Morel-Baker believes true justice cannot exist in a world where women are not educated, supported, and empowered.
When not raising millions to support women and girls, Dr. Morel-Baker and her husband are busy raising their two rambunctious children and planning their next global travel destination.
Sonaliz is one of the most influential, powerful, and dedicated woman leaders I have had the pleasure of working alongside. She has a way to capture the attention of those around her with her passion for fundraising and development. She takes the time to cultivate relationships with donors and different corporations; through this, she helps enhance and rapidly increase the fundraising efforts of any institution she is working with. Sony is compassionate, empathic, inclusive and a woman committed to making a difference!
—Nicole M.| Dean of Mission Integration & Student Life | Immaculate Conception HS
Sony is a natural leader and excels in finding creative solutions when faced with complex challenges. Her approach is analytical and strategic, yet flexible in her thinking. She is personable and always willing to collaborate in order for all parties to succeed. She is a thought partner and a loyal member of any team she is on.
—Lori F. | AVP of Foundation & Development | Clara Maass Medical Center
Dr. Morel-Baker embraces a warm, relationship-based approach to fundraising. Highly skilled in data analysis, she brings a strategic approach to her efforts. She is a consummate team player who instantaneously energizes any room she enters and persists graciously until she achieves her goals.
—Marcela H. | Vice President, Development | Bank Street College