DJ Cherif

Djeneba “DJ” Cherif is the Chief Academic Officer at University Prep Schools, where she leads academic strategy. Beyond shaping curriculum and instruction, DJ fosters a culture of innovation, equity, and leadership development across the entire network, empowering educators and uplifting student success at every level. A 2025 Yale School of Management Broad Fellow and a University of Michigan Marsal Family School of Education Teach Blue Fellow, DJ is dedicated to advancing equitable, transformative urban education.

Her career began as a math teacher and later as Dean of Students at Jalen Rose Leadership Academy, where she achieved near 100% graduation and college acceptance rates. At 27, she became Washtenaw County’s youngest building administrator. Recognized by Corp! Magazine as the 2021 Overall Most Valuable Millennial, she also became a 2023 Google GSV Education Fellow and TeachMichigan Systems Fellow.

DJ holds a Master’s in Education and Urban Pedagogy from the University of Michigan and is a proud Hampton University alumna. In 2026, she was honored as a Woman of Distinction by District Administration. A proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, DJ also serves on boards that empower teachers and students alike.