Educational Alliance Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Educational Alliance has 6 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, administration, and community empowerment.

Driven by a commitment to community uplift, Educational Alliance focuses on providing essential educational, social, and cultural services to empower individuals and families, fostering a vibrant environment for socio-economic advancement.

Leadership Roles at Educational Alliance

  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Richard Baum
  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Patricia Kusimo
  • Chief Financial Officer - Tailin Brecher
  • Founder & President - Desarie Nicholas
  • President - Irma Gordon
  • Chief Administrative Officer - Mark Enselman
  • Richard Baum - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Richard Baum, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Educational Alliance, directs the organization's overarching strategy and operational execution. Baum guides the non-profit's mission to serve diverse communities in Lower Manhattan, ensuring the delivery of high-quality programs that enhance well-being and socio-economic opportunities. This leadership role involves overseeing all facets of the organization, from early childhood education initiatives to addiction recovery services and support for older adults. Baum's strategic vision ensures that Educational Alliance continues its legacy as a vital settlement house, adapting to evolving community needs. The President & Chief Executive Officer works closely with the board and senior leadership to secure funding and foster partnerships that advance the organization's goals. Richard Baum's focus remains on empowering individuals and families, cultivating a thriving community where all members can achieve their full potential.

    Patricia Kusimo - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Patricia Kusimo, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Educational Alliance, spearheads the strategic direction and comprehensive management of the organization. Kusimo is dedicated to advancing Educational Alliance's core mission of providing essential educational, social, and cultural services to New York City communities, particularly in Lower Manhattan. This executive leadership position involves ensuring the effective implementation of programs designed to enhance socio-economic opportunities and overall well-being for diverse populations. Kusimo oversees critical areas such as early childhood education, arts programs, and services for older adults, driving initiatives that foster individual empowerment and community vitality. The President & Chief Executive Officer collaborates with stakeholders to secure resources and champion the organization's impact. Patricia Kusimo's leadership ensures Educational Alliance remains a cornerstone for community development and support.

    Tailin Brecher - Chief Financial Officer

    Tailin Brecher, the Chief Financial Officer at Educational Alliance, manages the organization's financial health and strategic fiscal planning. Brecher oversees all aspects of financial operations, including budgeting, accounting, financial reporting, and resource allocation across diverse programs like early childhood education, addiction recovery, and arts education. This critical role ensures the financial sustainability and efficient use of funds to support Educational Alliance's mission of empowering individuals and families in Lower Manhattan. The Chief Financial Officer works to secure funding through grants and donations, maintaining strong relationships with financial institutions and donors. Brecher's expertise is vital in navigating the financial complexities of a large non-profit, ensuring compliance and maximizing the impact of every dollar spent. Tailin Brecher's diligent financial oversight supports the organization's long-term growth and community service objectives.

    Desarie Nicholas - Founder & President

    Desarie Nicholas, the Founder & President at Educational Alliance, established the organization with a foundational vision for community service and empowerment. Nicholas continues to champion the core mission, guiding the strategic development and ethical framework of Educational Alliance's programs in New York City. This leadership position involves providing oversight and inspiration across all service areas, including early childhood education, arts education, addiction recovery, and support for older adults. The Founder & President plays a key role in fostering the organization's culture and ensuring its enduring commitment to serving diverse communities in Lower Manhattan. Nicholas's enduring dedication shapes the long-term trajectory of Educational Alliance, ensuring its continued relevance and impact. Desarie Nicholas's foundational leadership remains integral to the organization's identity and its pursuit of enhancing socio-economic opportunities for all.

    Irma Gordon - President

    Irma Gordon, the President at Educational Alliance, leads the strategic initiatives and operational oversight for the organization's vital community programs. Gordon is dedicated to advancing Educational Alliance's mission of providing comprehensive educational, social, and cultural services to diverse populations in Lower Manhattan. This executive role involves ensuring the effective delivery of services, including early childhood education, arts programs, addiction recovery support, and resources for older adults. The President works to foster a supportive environment that empowers individuals and families, enhancing their socio-economic opportunities and overall well-being. Gordon collaborates with stakeholders to drive program innovation and secure necessary resources. Irma Gordon's leadership ensures Educational Alliance continues to be a cornerstone of community development and support, adapting to meet evolving needs.

    Mark Enselman - Chief Administrative Officer

    Mark Enselman, the Chief Administrative Officer at Educational Alliance, directs the operational infrastructure and administrative functions that support the organization's extensive service delivery. Enselman oversees human resources, IT, facilities management, and general operations, ensuring a seamless and efficient environment for staff and program participants. This role is crucial for maintaining the smooth functioning of all Educational Alliance programs, from early childhood education to services for older adults and addiction recovery initiatives across Lower Manhattan. The Chief Administrative Officer develops and implements policies and procedures that enhance organizational efficiency and compliance. Enselman's strategic management of resources and personnel is fundamental to the effective execution of the organization's mission. Mark Enselman's leadership ensures that administrative support robustly underpins Educational Alliance's commitment to community empowerment and well-being.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Educational Alliance Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Educational Alliance?
    Educational Alliance is led by Richard Baum (President & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Patricia Kusimo (President & Chief Executive Officer) and Tailin Brecher (Chief Financial Officer).
    Who is part of Educational Alliance’s executive team?
    The executive team of Educational Alliance includes leaders such as Richard Baum (President & Chief Executive Officer), Patricia Kusimo (President & Chief Executive Officer), Tailin Brecher (Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Educational Alliance have?
    Educational Alliance has 6 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Educational Alliance’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Educational Alliance includes roles such as President & Chief Executive Officer, President & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Founder & President, President.