A New Chapter for THEO: Marian Searchwell-DeSouza Named Director of STAR's Adolescent Education Program
By STAR Program | Jul 14, 2026
The STAR Program is pleased to announce the appointment of Marian Searchwell-DeSouza, EdD, as Director of the Adolescent Education Program (AEP), widely known as THEO – Teens Helping Each Other.
Marian assumes this role following the retirement of Christine Rucker, MPA, AEP/THEO’s longtime Director and Co-Founder, whose vision, compassion, and dedication shaped the program for more than three decades. Christine’s passing was a tremendous loss to the STAR community, but her legacy lives on through the thousands of young people she mentored and the enduring impact of THEO. As the program enters its next chapter, Marian brings institutional knowledge and lifelong connection to its mission, building on the strong foundation Christine helped create.
Few individuals are better positioned to lead AEP/THEO into the future. Marian’s journey with THEO began in the early 1990s as a teen peer educator. Over the years, she has grown into a respected educator, mentor, and leader, dedicating more than two decades to empowering young people across Brooklyn through culturally responsive, peer-driven health education.
Most recently, Marian earned her Doctorate of Education in Organizational Leadership and Strategic Planning from Grand Canyon University, a milestone that reflects her commitment to lifelong learning and leadership. Throughout her career, she has helped young people develop the knowledge, confidence, and skills needed to make informed decisions about their health and futures.
Under Marian’s leadership, AEP/THEO will continue its longstanding focus on youth development, HIV and sexual health education, pregnancy prevention, leadership training, and community engagement. She has played a key role in expanding the program’s reach while remaining grounded in the values that have defined AEP/THEO since its founding: mentorship, empowerment, and respect for young people’s voices.
Marian has described her doctoral degree not simply as a personal accomplishment, but as a tool to strengthen and grow AEP/THEO. That perspective reflects the approach she brings to this new role – one centered on service, collaboration, and creating opportunities for the next generation.
Her appointment represents both continuity and growth: continuity in AEP/THEO’s unwavering commitment to Brooklyn youth, and growth through a leader whose experience spans every level of the program, from peer educator to director.
The STAR Program is grateful for Christine’s lasting contributions and excited to support Marian as she leads AEP/THEO into its next era.
To learn more about THEO and its impact on young people across Brooklyn, visit: www.theoprogram.org.
Tags: STAR Program