News

Rosemonde Pierre-Louis to Become NYU McSilver’s Next Executive Director

Her appointment, starting July 1, begins a new chapter of leadership for the institute

The NYU McSilver Institute for Poverty Policy and Research announces the appointment of Rosemonde Pierre-Louis, Esq, as the executive director effective July 1. The Institute embarks on a new era of transformational leadership to advance its mission to disrupt poverty.

Pierre-Louis, who currently serves as McSilver’s chief operating officer, is a highly recognized public sector leader, known for driving social and economic change. From 2014 to 2016, she served as the senior adviser to the NYC Commission on Gender Equity (CGE) and, prior to that, served as commissioner of the mayor’s office to combat domestic violence. In 2006, Pierre-Louis became the first Haitian-American in New York City’s history to serve as Manhattan deputy borough president, and served in this capacity until 2013.

Prior to entering government, Pierre-Louis practiced law for 17 years and served in leadership positions within legal services organizations representing survivors of intimate partner violence. From 1998 to 2005, she was an adjunct professor at Fordham University School of Law.

“Rose brings to her new role not only the expertise gained from being part of the team that successfully led McSilver and help guide its agenda, but also the experience of a long and successful career in public service during which she helped shaped important national and local policies related to poverty, mental health, domestic violence and gender equity,” says Dr. Lynne Brown, senior vice president for university relations and public affairs at New York University. “She is well-positioned to lead McSilver into its next decade of service and impact.”

“Congratulations to Rosemonde Pierre-Louis on her appointment to become the new executive director of the McSilver Institute for Poverty Policy and Research at NYU,” says Congressman Adriano Espaillat (NY-13). “Rose has been instrumental in aiding underserved and vulnerable communities access our community helping them connect to viable resources and services. Today, we celebrate Rose’s accomplishments and look forward to her continued contributions to empower, advocate, and support individuals and families throughout New York City.”

In addition, the following dynamic executive leadership team has been appointed:

Andrew F. Cleek, PsyD, will become deputy executive director. He is currently the institute’s chief program officer, responsible for overseeing a broad portfolio of technical assistance, offering training and support to all behavioral health agencies in New York State. He directs initiatives involving trauma-informed care, evidence-based practices, early childhood mental health and the implementation of health care reform. Prior to his role at McSilver, Cleek served as the founding director of the Urban Institute for Behavioral Health. He also holds positions as an adjunct lecturer at the NYU Silver School of Social Work and as a research assistant professor at the NYU School of Medicine.

Ammu D. Kowolik, LMSW, MPA, will become chief operating officer. She is currently chief of staff and is responsible for the oversight of operations of the institute, including grants and fiscal administration. As a member of the executive leadership team, Kowolik plays a key role in shaping strategic initiatives for the institute. Kowolik is passionate about social and racial justice, and is dedicated to issues around women's rights and maternal health. Prior to joining the McSilver Institute, she worked with the NASW in the NYC Chapter, where she led efforts around fundraising, membership development, programming, and political action.

Frederica C. Stines, MA, will become chief of staff. She is currently deputy chief of staff, working closely with the executive team to carry out the Institute’s overall operations, finances, and grants management. Prior to joining the McSilver Institute, she served as the assistant executive director at Black Women’s Blueprint, where she provided oversight for programs and special events aimed at ending sexual violence against Black women and girls.

“I’m truly excited for the opportunity to lead the McSilver Institute in its next phase of growth as a disruptive force against poverty and inequality—one that will translate our research, training and policy work into lasting impact in new and innovative ways,” Pierre-Louis says. “This is a natural extension of my life’s work serving the most vulnerable within our communities and advocating for systemic change. And I’ll be partnering with a stellar group of talented leaders who have long dedicated themselves to the institute’s success: Dr. Andrew Cleek, Ammu Kowolik, and Frederica Stines. Our future couldn't be brighter.”

Pierre-Louis will succeed Dr. Michael A. Lindsey, who has been appointed to the role of dean of the NYU Silver School of Social Work.

“I am thrilled to pass the torch to Rose and the executive leadership team. Having worked with this team for the last five-plus years, I know they are poised to lead the McSilver Institute to higher heights of impact!” Lindsey says. “Rose, Andy, Ammu, and Frederica are highly talented leaders and have been instrumental to the institute's growth. So, I am proud of this leadership transition and what it means for the McSilver Institute in its continued mission of disrupting the root causes and consequences of poverty.”

Source: The NYU McSilver Institute for Poverty Policy and Research