NYS Assembly Executive and Leadership Team

October, 2026

Leadership Overview

NYS Assembly has 5 executives leading key functions including legislative strategy, constituent advocacy, policy development, administrative operations, and district management.

Committed to progressive reform and public service, NYS Assembly drives legislative initiatives that improve education, housing, and utility access for all residents across New York State.

Leadership Roles at NYS Assembly

  • Chief of Staff - Lois Goblet
  • Chief Of Staff, Assemblymember Phara Souffrant Forrest - Karen Narefsky
  • Deputy Chief of Staff - Gabriel Hernandez
  • Chief of Staff (Deputy) - Mariya Markh
  • Chief of Staff of NYS Assemblyman Magnarelli's Office - Diana Abdella
  • Lois Goblet - Chief of Staff

    Lois Goblet, the Chief of Staff at NYS Assembly, directs high-level administrative operations and coordinates legislative priorities. Managing the daily workflow of the office, the Chief of Staff ensures that policy objectives align with the broader mission of the legislative body. This role involves constant communication with committee chairs to advance budget proposals regarding education and housing reform. By streamlining internal processes, Lois Goblet optimizes the efficiency of the legislative team. The Chief of Staff also facilitates public hearings, ensuring that the voices of New York residents reach the floor of the People's House. Through rigorous oversight of staff performance and resource allocation, the Chief of Staff maintains the integrity of the legislative process. Ultimately, the Chief of Staff secures the successful passage of critical bills that provide utility relief and social support to communities throughout the state.

    Karen Narefsky - Chief Of Staff, Assemblymember Phara Souffrant Forrest

    Karen Narefsky, the Chief Of Staff, Assemblymember Phara Souffrant Forrest at NYS Assembly, manages district-specific legislative advocacy and constituent relations. Focusing on the unique needs of the local population, the Chief Of Staff, Assemblymember Phara Souffrant Forrest develops targeted policy solutions that address housing stability and healthcare access. This leadership position requires deep engagement with community stakeholders to identify pressing social issues. By translating local concerns into actionable legislative language, Karen Narefsky drives meaningful change within the state government. The Chief Of Staff, Assemblymember Phara Souffrant Forrest coordinates with other legislative offices to build coalitions around progressive reform. Through persistent monitoring of district-level data, the Chief Of Staff, Assemblymember Phara Souffrant Forrest ensures that the legislative agenda remains responsive to the evolving demands of the public. This work directly impacts the quality of life for residents by securing essential funding and legislative protections.

    Gabriel Hernandez - Deputy Chief of Staff

    Gabriel Hernandez, the Deputy Chief of Staff at NYS Assembly, oversees internal communications and supports the execution of complex legislative projects. Assisting the senior leadership team, the Deputy Chief of Staff manages the logistical requirements of public sessions and committee meetings. This role involves drafting policy briefs and analyzing the fiscal impact of proposed budget adjustments. By maintaining clear channels of communication between departments, Gabriel Hernandez ensures that all legislative staff remain aligned with the core mission of the People's House. The Deputy Chief of Staff also monitors the progress of bills through the legislative cycle, providing critical updates to the executive team. Through meticulous attention to detail, the Deputy Chief of Staff facilitates the smooth operation of the office during high-pressure legislative periods. This leadership function supports the overall goal of delivering effective, reform-oriented governance to the people of New York.

    Mariya Markh - Chief of Staff (Deputy)

    Mariya Markh, the Chief of Staff (Deputy) at NYS Assembly, manages external partnerships and coordinates outreach efforts to enhance public engagement. Focusing on the expansion of legislative awareness, the Chief of Staff (Deputy) organizes town halls and community forums to discuss critical policy shifts. This role involves building relationships with advocacy groups to strengthen the impact of proposed education and housing reforms. By facilitating dialogue between the legislative body and the public, Mariya Markh ensures that the work of the Assembly remains transparent and accessible. The Chief of Staff (Deputy) also tracks the implementation of new programs to verify that the intended benefits reach the residents of New York State. Through strategic planning and community outreach, the Chief of Staff (Deputy) drives the mission of the People's House forward. This leadership role secures long-term public trust by demonstrating a clear commitment to progressive action and legislative accountability.

    Diana Abdella - Chief of Staff of NYS Assemblyman Magnarelli's Office

    Diana Abdella, the Chief of Staff of NYS Assemblyman Magnarelli's Office at NYS Assembly, directs regional legislative initiatives and manages the office's operational budget. Overseeing the staff responsible for constituent services, the Chief of Staff of NYS Assemblyman Magnarelli's Office ensures that all inquiries receive prompt and effective resolution. This role involves analyzing regional economic data to support legislative proposals that benefit the local infrastructure and utility sectors. By coordinating with state agencies, Diana Abdella secures necessary resources for the district. The Chief of Staff of NYS Assemblyman Magnarelli's Office also prepares the Assemblyman for committee hearings, providing the research and documentation required for informed decision-making. Through consistent focus on regional development, the Chief of Staff of NYS Assemblyman Magnarelli's Office strengthens the overall legislative impact of the Assembly. This work ensures that the needs of the district remain a central priority within the broader state legislative agenda.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding NYS Assembly Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads NYS Assembly?
    NYS Assembly is led by Lois Goblet (Chief of Staff), along with executives such as Karen Narefsky (Chief Of Staff, Assemblymember Phara Souffrant Forrest) and Gabriel Hernandez (Deputy Chief of Staff).
    Who is part of NYS Assembly’s executive team?
    The executive team of NYS Assembly includes leaders such as Lois Goblet (Chief of Staff), Karen Narefsky (Chief Of Staff, Assemblymember Phara Souffrant Forrest), Gabriel Hernandez (Deputy Chief of Staff) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does NYS Assembly have?
    NYS Assembly has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in NYS Assembly’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of NYS Assembly includes roles such as Chief of Staff, Chief Of Staff, Assemblymember Phara Souffrant Forrest, Deputy Chief of Staff, Chief of Staff (Deputy), Chief of Staff of NYS Assemblyman Magnarelli's Office.