Dear Members and Friends of the New York Academy of Public Education,
It is truly an honor and a privilege to serve as President of the New York Academy of Public Education. This role is especially meaningful to me because I have been a proud and faithful member of the Academy since 2006. Over the years, I have had the opportunity to experience firsthand the fellowship, professional connections, and shared commitment to education that make this organization so special. To now have the opportunity to serve as its President is both humbling and deeply meaningful.
Since its founding in 1912, the Academy has served as a gathering place for educational leaders who share a common belief in the importance of strengthening and advancing education. More than a century later, that commitment remains at the heart of who we are.
One of the things I value most about the Academy is its vision of creating an AGORA—a place where educators can come together to exchange ideas, learn from one another, build meaningful relationships, and inspire one another through our shared experiences. In a profession that is constantly changing, having a community where we can connect, collaborate, support one another, and grow together is more important than ever.
As we look toward the future, I hope we will continue to honor the traditions that have made the Academy so special while also finding new and exciting ways to engage our members. I envision an Academy where members look forward to coming together, not only for professional learning and thoughtful conversations, but also for fellowship, networking, mentorship, and opportunities to reconnect with colleagues and friends.
Most importantly, the Academy belongs to all of us. Its strength comes from the collective knowledge, experiences, ideas, and passion of its members. I encourage you to become involved, share your voice, attend our programs, invite colleagues to join us, and help shape the future of this wonderful organization.
As someone who has called the Academy my professional home for the past 20 years, I have tremendous respect for those who came before us and helped build the organization we have today. As we celebrate more than a century of history, I am equally excited about the chapter we will write together. My hope is that we will preserve the traditions and values that have defined the Academy while continuing to grow, evolve, and create meaningful opportunities for current and future generations of educational leaders.
Thank you for being part of the New York Academy of Public Education. I look forward to connecting with you, learning with you, and working alongside you as we continue the important mission that began in 1912.
With warmest regards,
Catalina Castillo
President
New York Academy of Public Education