Sonia Manzano

For over 30 years, Sonia Manzano has inspired, educated, and delighted children and families as “Maria” on Sesame Street. Breaking ground as one of the first Hispanic characters on national television, she continues to contribute to enriching diversity on television, on the stage, and in the educational realm.

Twice nominated for an Emmy for Outstanding Performer in a Children’s Series, Manzano has also appeared on stage in several critically acclaimed theater performances. A bestselling children’s author, she has written No Dogs Allowed, which was selected by the General Mills initiative “Spoonfuls of Stories” to encourage childhood literacy. As part of the Sesame Street writing team, she has won 15 Emmys, and continues to pen scripts for children’s programs as well as for literary ventures.

As a Hispanic actress and activist, she has been honored by many organizations, including the Association of Hispanic Arts, The Congressional Hispanic Caucus in Washington DC, The National Hispanic Media Coalition, The Committee for Hispanic Children and Families, and the Hispanic Heritage Award for Education.

A staunch advocate for education, Manzano shares her extraordinary talent to help children to succeed. Whether speaking out for literacy, diversity, or addressing the issues children face in our media saturated life, she is a familiar, engaging voice that brings new light to her roles and to our lives.