KIPP NYC Executive and Leadership Team

Alicia Johnson, the Chief Executive Officer at KIPP NYC, directs the overarching strategy and vision for the network of free public charter schools. Johnson guides the organization's mission to empower students from elementary through high school, ensuring alignment with the goal of equipping every child with the skills necessary for success in college, career, and beyond. This leadership role involves fostering strong partnerships with families and communities across the Bronx, Brooklyn, and Manhattan. Alicia Johnson oversees the implementation of rigorous academic programs and character development initiatives, driving the commitment to educational excellence that has defined KIPP NYC for over 30 years. The Chief Executive Officer's focus remains on expanding opportunities and fostering a future without limits for all students served by the network.

Aric Dershem, the Chief Operating Officer & Chief Information Officer at KIPP NYC, architects and oversees the operational infrastructure and technological systems that support the network's educational mission. Dershem manages the day-to-day operations across KIPP NYC's schools in the Bronx, Brooklyn, and Manhattan, ensuring efficient resource allocation and service delivery. This dual role involves driving technological innovation to enhance learning environments and administrative functions, supporting the organization's commitment to empowering students from elementary through high school. Aric Dershem ensures that robust IT systems are in place to facilitate rigorous academics and personalized support, enabling effective partnerships with families and communities. The Chief Operating Officer & Chief Information Officer's leadership is crucial for maintaining operational excellence and fostering a future without limits for students.

Paola Leon, the Founder & Co-President, Stand Up Speak Out at KIPP NYC, spearheads initiatives focused on student advocacy and leadership development, embodying the organization's commitment to empowering students beyond academics. Leon drives programs that equip students with the skills to voice their perspectives and effect positive change within their communities, reinforcing KIPP NYC's mission from elementary through high school. This leadership position involves fostering a culture where student voices are amplified, supporting the partnerships with families and communities that are integral to holistic development. Paola Leon's vision for Stand Up Speak Out directly contributes to the rigorous academics and character development that define KIPP NYC's approach. The Founder & Co-President's work is essential in fostering a future without limits by cultivating engaged and empowered young leaders.

Yashima AziLove, the Chief of Staff at KIPP NYC, provides critical support to the Chief Executive Officer, managing key strategic initiatives and ensuring operational efficiency across the network. AziLove facilitates communication and collaboration between departments, streamlining processes to support the organization's mission of empowering students from elementary through high school. This role involves coordinating special projects, driving cross-functional alignment, and ensuring that KIPP NYC's commitment to educational excellence is consistently upheld. Yashima AziLove plays a vital part in translating strategic goals into actionable plans, supporting the partnerships with families and communities that are essential to student success in college, career, and beyond. The Chief of Staff's efforts directly contribute to fostering a future without limits for the students served.

Lakeshia Highsmith, the Chief People Officer at KIPP NYC, leads all human capital strategies, focusing on attracting, developing, and retaining exceptional talent across the network. Highsmith oversees recruitment, professional development, and employee engagement initiatives, ensuring that KIPP NYC's team is equipped to deliver on its mission of empowering students from elementary through high school. This critical role involves cultivating a supportive and high-performing organizational culture that aligns with the commitment to educational excellence. Lakeshia Highsmith champions initiatives that foster strong partnerships with families and communities by ensuring the people delivering these services are well-supported and highly effective. The Chief People Officer's dedication to talent management is fundamental to KIPP NYC's sustained success and its goal of fostering a future without limits for every student.