Paterson, New Jersey, United States
Serving as the Mayor of Paterson, New Jersey’s third-largest city since July 1, 2018, I lead with purpose, advancing economic opportunity, uplifting neighborhoods, and strengthening community cohesion. My work centers on improving quality of life for all residents while positioning Paterson as a vibrant urban hub with a future-ready vision. Throughout my tenure, I have delivered measurable outcomes that reflect tangible progress: ✔ Reduced abandoned properties by over 90%, turning blight into opportunity and economic momentum. ✔ Catalyzed affordable housing growth and energized commercial corridors that celebrate diversity. ✔ Led the revitalization of historic Hinchliffe Stadium, rekindling community pride and boosting local engagement. ✔ Expanded park spaces, reentry support, financial empowerment programs, and guaranteed income initiatives that strengthen resident resilience. ✔ Oversaw significant investments in infrastructure improvements, including extensive roadway resurfacing and mobility enhancements. I believe in inclusive leadership that honors the voices of a richly diverse city. Before becoming mayor, I represented Paterson’s 6th Ward on the City Council (2008–2018), where I championed ordinances to reduce blight, enhanced community safety, improved environmental outcomes, and drove family-friendly initiatives. My public service roots run deep: I served on the Paterson Board of Education, where I advanced school uniforms, new construction, and curriculum improvements that supported student success. Prior to elected office, I supported policy and constituent advocacy as Chief of Staff to State Senator John A. Girgenti and Field Representative for Congressman Bill Pascrell. I hold a B.A. in History from Seton Hall University and a Master’s in Public Policy and Administration from Columbia University, where I led as President of the Graduate Student Government. My career reflects a commitment to bridging communities, championing equitable growth, and fostering opportunities that empower residents across cultural, economic, and generational lines. I continue to invest in Paterson’s future alongside residents, business leaders, and civic partners as we build toward a stronger, more inclusive tomorrow.
Chief executive of New Jersey's third largest city. Successful re-branding of Paterson has resulted in significant growth in financial investment and economic development - attracting more businesses as well as the film industry. Participant in the Bloomberg Harvard City Leadership Initiative, to better equip City Hall with the tools to lead a high-performing, innovative city.
Instruct and advise 35 students each semester in Psychology, Sociology, Political Science, and Philosophy
-Elected City Council President in 2013 -Sponsored progressive legislation to promote cost savings (energy aggregation ordinance) and revenue generation (environmental commission to increase the city's recycling rate) -Sponsored insurance procurement reform ordinance that will save the city $2.1 million. -Address and alleviate constituent concerns about issues such as crime, illegal parking, and property maintenance by ensuring city employees are held accountable. -Engage youth through creation of a Youth Guidance Council currently focused on recreational activities -Communicate with and inform constituents via social media, including daily article reviews -Review and approve allocation for municipality’s budget of $200MM -Leveraged funds from the Urban Enterprise Zone to establish clean communities initiatives in two of the Sixth Ward's most vibrant business districts
Motivate 75 students per semester by instructing World History class