2025 Power Players in Education

Christina Foti is the deputy chancellor of the Division of Inclusive and Accessible Learning at NYC Public Schools, overseeing the Special Education Office and the Office of Multilingual Learners. Her leadership focuses on expanding access to high-quality, inclusive programs close to home. She previously served as chief of special education and principal of P.S. 231K. Foti holds degrees from Vassar, CUNY, and Hunter, and is pursuing a doctorate at Teachers College, Columbia University.

How has the educational landscape changed in recent years and what are your hopes for its future?
A little over a year ago, NYC Public Schools created the Division of Inclusive and Accessible Learning to place students with disabilities and multilingual learners at the center of our system. Since then, we’ve expanded early childhood programming, specialized programs, and multilingual pathways while grounding literacy in evidence-based practice. My hope is to build on this foundation so that inclusion and excellence are inseparable, and every student can thrive in their neighborhood school.

What do you most enjoy about working in education?
What I enjoy most about working in education is seeing progress – both the small, daily steps and the large system shifts – that change students’ lives. From a child learning to read with the right support to entire districts expanding inclusive programs, these moments keep me inspired. Working with families, educators, and communities to build schools where all students belong and thrive is the most rewarding part of this work.

As this year comes to an end, what are your goals for 2026?
As 2026 approaches, my goal is to build on recent gains in English language arts and math proficiency while closing opportunity gaps for students with disabilities and multilingual learners. Progress has shown what’s possible, but equity means ensuring these gains reach every student. My focus is on sustaining academic growth, expanding access to rigorous instruction, and making sure our most vulnerable students are fully included in the city’s success.

With more than 20 years of experience in education advocacy, New York Edge CEO Rachael Gazdick leads the organization’s mission to build equity in education and provide thousands of K-12 students with free, engaging programs that help them grow academically and personally to pursue bright futures. Previously, Gazdick served as president and CEO of Colorado’s “I Have A Dream” Foundation and as executive director of Say Yes to Education Syracuse.

How has the educational landscape changed in recent years and what are your hopes for its future?
The educational landscape has shifted toward a whole-child approach, blending academics with social-emotional support for their long-term development. Technology, particularly AI, is expanding how students access information and discover their strengths. My hope is that schools remain innovative and creative while preserving human connection. Education must cultivate curiosity, intellect, and joy in learning while using new tools to enhance – not replace – the relationships that allow young people to truly grow.

What do you most enjoy about working in education?
I find the greatest joy in seeing young people shine on big stages – performing at Radio City, competing at MetLife Stadium, publishing books, or producing award-winning podcasts and music. These moments showcase their brilliance and creativity. At New York Edge, we strive to provide every student with transformative experiences that affirm their talents and show them what’s possible. Witnessing students step into these opportunities is deeply inspiring and fuels my passion for this work.

As this year comes to an end, what are your goals for 2026?
In 2026, my goals are to expand innovative, citywide learning experiences that transform New York into our students’ classroom. I want to connect young people not only to their neighborhoods but to the global community, helping them see themselves as global citizens. We will continue equipping students with the skills and confidence they need to thrive, while fostering the next generation of thinkers, creators, and leaders who will shape our future.

Fatma is QPL’s director of community learning, leading programs that advance adult education, workforce and career readiness, digital literacy, and immigrant integration across Queens. She oversees initiatives that help New Yorkers strengthen English language, academic, and job skills through adult basic education, high school equivalency, sector-based training, and college transition programs. A certified coach and doctoral candidate at Teachers College at Columbia, researching transformative learning in community-based ESOL programs.

Charles J. Gibbs, Ed.D. became president of Metropolitan College of New York (MCNY) on July 1, 2024. With over 25 years in higher education, Dr. Gibbs has led institutions to success. Previously, he was CEO of 100 Black Men of America and president of the Propel Center HBCU Consortium. Dr. Gibbs held leadership roles at Clark Atlanta, Miles College, and Howard University. A Howard University triple alumnus, he is dedicated to transforming education and fostering student success.

Carmen Renée Green, M.D., president and dean of CUNY School of Medicine, is a nationally recognized strategic thought leader on the social determinants of health and in medical education. Under her leadership, CUNY School of Medicine has become an independent medical school within CUNY, and now leads New York and the nation in producing medical professionals traditionally under-represented in medicine. Dr. Green’s research and vision are dedicated to eliminating health care gaps in our time.

How has the educational landscape changed in recent years and what are your hopes for its future?
The number of high school graduates and college entrants is declining even as Americans live longer with more chronic disease. Amid this enrollment cliff and aging tsunami, applications to CUNY Medicine doubled in the last year. Through partnerships with mission-aligned hospitals, middle- and high-school pathway programs, our B.S./M.D. and Physician Assistant programs produce clinicians from underserved communities to serve New Yorkers. I hope to increase CUNY Medicine enrollment to meet the state’s health care needs. 

What do you most enjoy about working in education?
Our amazing students! As dean of Manhattan’s only public medical school and part of the nation’s largest urban public university, it is my honor to serve New Yorkers. We improve population health by expanding access to medical education and high-quality health care in marginalized and vulnerable communities. With a growing primary-care physician shortage, my greatest joy is seeing students receive white coats, knowing that most will return to serve New York’s most underserved communities.

As this year comes to an end, what are your goals for 2026?
We are in the heart of Harlem, inspired by the Harlem Renaissance to change the skyline of academic medicine. From our accelerated seven-year B.S.-M.D. program to one of the country’s earliest Physician Assistant programs, we now offer a post-baccalaureate degree serving those most in need. We continue to innovate curriculum, research, and community partnerships to create a bridge between educational and health care settings so New York’s students learn to practice in and heal their neighborhoods.

Assemblywoman Alicia L. Hyndman represents New York’s 29th District, including Laurelton, Rosedale, St. Albans, Hollis, and Jamaica. A lifelong education advocate and chair of the Higher Education Committee, she secured $30 million for Queens schools and led the CUNY/SUNY Reconnect program for adults 25–55. Hyndman authored NY’s Juneteenth law and champions equity, workforce development, and small business growth. She holds degrees from SUNY New Paltz and Framingham State and lives in Laurelton with her two daughters.

How has the educational landscape changed in recent years and what are your hopes for its future?
I have witnessed a significant shift toward equity and innovation in education, especially in response to the pandemic’s impact. I see increased investment in technology, mental health support, and career readiness as positive steps. My hope is for a future where every student, regardless of zip code, has access to high-quality education, culturally responsive curriculum, and pathways to college and career success.

What do you most enjoy about working in education?
I find fulfillment in advocating for students and families, creating life-changing opportunities through policy, funding, and mentorship. My background in education and community leadership fuels my passion for safe, well-resourced, and empowering schools. As chair of the Higher Education Committee, I champion college access, career readiness, and adult learning, most notably through the CUNY/SUNY Reconnect initiative, which provides free associate degrees to New Yorkers aged 25–55.

As this year comes to an end, what are your goals for 2026?
In 2026, my goals include expanding adult education access through programs like CUNY/SUNY Reconnect, strengthening workforce development, and supporting small businesses tied to educational and infrastructure growth. I aim to advance legislation that uplifts underserved communities, with a focus on economic mobility, youth empowerment, and ensuring the JFK Airport redevelopment delivers lasting benefits to Southeast Queens residents. I will champion education equity, economic empowerment, and inclusive community development.

Dr. Larry D. Johnson Jr. became the seventh president of Bronx Community College in July 2025. He previously led Guttman Community College and was Phoenix College’s first Black president, launching Neighborhood College and securing STEM funding. Earlier roles include Georgia Piedmont, Broward, and St. Louis community colleges. An HBCU graduate, he holds degrees from Florida A&M and Clark Atlanta, with graduate study at Florida State and Harvard, and serves on the American Association of Community Colleges Board.

How has the educational landscape changed in recent years and what are your hopes for its future?
The value of higher education is increasingly questioned, placing pressure on institutions to reaffirm their relevance. My hope is to reframe education as both a pathway to financial empowerment and a catalyst for critical thinking. At BCC, we prepare students not only for careers but also to become civically engaged, globally informed citizens who challenge the status quo.

What do you most enjoy about working in education?
Education transforms lives. At BCC, I witness students advance from earning a GED to completing a degree and securing family-sustaining wages. That ripple effect uplifts families and communities. I am most inspired by the promise of access – especially for those from underserved backgrounds – and by the opportunity to lead an institution that equips students to succeed while serving as the Bronx’s “crown jewel” of higher education.

As this year comes to an end, what are your goals for 2026?
By the close of 2026, my priority is to complete a comprehensive strategic plan grounded in belonging, collaboration, and communication. Informed by stakeholder feedback, this plan will position BCC as a leader in academic excellence, innovation, and community-centeredness – an institution that not only prepares students for success but also strengthens the Bronx through sustainable and inclusive growth.

Dominique Jones has devoted her career to expanding educational opportunities and fostering civic engagement for underserved youth. Under her leadership, Global Kids has grown to partner with 31 sites, reaching thousands of students, families, and educators annually, while securing competitive grants and expanding programs across New York City and Washington, D.C. Dominique’s strategic vision and unwavering commitment to equity has established Global Kids as a leader in youth development and global education.

How has the educational landscape changed in recent years and what are your hopes for its future?
Intentional support for developing the “whole child” has become a key advancement in education. Through models like community schools, educators now address barriers to learning, recognizing that students and families need more than high-quality instruction to thrive. By serving as strategic hubs that foster household stability and opportunity, schools are unlocking students’ full potential – ensuring they have the essential support, resources, and pathways that lay the foundation for lasting academic achievement and future success.

What do you most enjoy about working in education?
What I enjoy most about my work in education is the diversity of the work, the people I partner with, and especially the young people I serve. Every day brings unique challenges and opportunities, and I take great satisfaction in navigating them thoughtfully. Through this work, I strive to provide our students with the strong educational foundation they deserve, supporting their growth, potential, and success in meaningful and lasting ways.

As this year comes to an end, what are your goals for 2026?
As the year concludes, I’m excited to continue deepening the work of Global Kids across New York City and D.C. With our new strategic plan, we are poised to pursue ambitious goals, including strengthening the academic, social-emotional, and global citizenship skills of the more than 14,000 students we serve. I look forward to collaborating with our dedicated staff, educators, city leadership, and most importantly, our youth to bring these goals to life.

Council Member Rita Joseph represents Brooklyn’s 40th Council District. A former public school teacher and education advocate, she champions equity, access, and opportunity for all New Yorkers. As chair of the Committee on Education, Rita leads efforts to strengthen schools, support teachers, and uplift families. A proud Haitian immigrant, mother, and community leader, she remains dedicated to empowering the next generation through compassion, service, and action.

How has the educational landscape changed in recent years and what are your hopes for its future?
Over the years I have seen the educational landscape transform through technology, personalized learning, and a deeper focus on students’ emotional well-being. While the pandemic exposed inequities, it also ignited innovation and collaboration. My hope for the future is an education system that’s equitable, student-centered and adaptable, one that empowers every child to learn, thrive, and lead, regardless of zip code or background.

What do you most enjoy about working in education?
What I enjoy most about working in education is the students. Their curiosity, resilience, and limitless potential inspire me every day. Watching them grow, discover their voices, and overcome challenges reminds me why this work matters so deeply. Each student represents a future filled with possibility, and being part of their journey helping them see what they’re capable of has been the most rewarding and fulfilling part of my career.

As this year comes to an end, what are your goals for 2026?
My goals for 2026 are focused on reimagining education and community empowerment. I aim to expand access to technology and career pathways for students, strengthen partnerships between schools and local organizations, and champion mental health supports in every classroom. I’m also committed to advancing sustainability in our schools, promoting civic engagement among youth, and ensuring families have the resources they need to thrive in a more equitable, connected, and forward thinking New York City.

Dr. Alan Kadish is president of Touro University, the largest Jewish-sponsored educational institution in the U.S., and its affiliated New York Medical College. A cardiologist and researcher by training, Dr. Kadish is developing Touro as a leader in health care education, with six medical schools, eight PA programs and exciting new research partnerships. Under Dr. Kadish’s leadership, Touro pioneered initiatives that serve underserved communities while training students to fulfill the health care needs of those communities. 

How has the educational landscape changed in recent years and what are your hopes for its future?
People have increasingly begun to question the value of higher education. That has not translated into a decline in enrollment at Touro, but this does cause concern about the future. Any industry can be examined and encouraged to improve, but higher education has a tremendous track record of cultivating citizens and providing opportunities for success. I hope people will continue to see the benefits higher education offers to individuals, communities and society and be willing participants.

What do you most enjoy about working in education?
I most enjoy seeing students succeed and appreciate being able to be a part of that process. Students often enter college unsure of themselves personally and not certain where they are headed professionally. Seeing them develop their strengths and skills and helping guide them to a successful career and future is extraordinarily rewarding.

As this year comes to an end, what are your goals for 2026?
Making sure that tuition remains affordable for students from all walks of life who seek to improve their future prospects for success; ensuring that Touro campuses remain committed to free expression; and not allowing the “noise” to interfere with the life-saving work we are engaged with in biomedical research. We look forward to maximizing our expansion and alliances with leading research institutions that are driving breakthroughs in cancer, Alzheimer’s, while giving our students hands-on experience.