Staff

First Deputy Public Advocate

Nick E. Smith

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Nick E. Smith is the First Deputy Public Advocate. He's a policy and organizing professional who has authored or negotiated scores of legislation, primarily related to justice system reform and housing equity. He's the proud father of twin girls, Grace and Faith Smith.

Chief of Staff

Rance Huff

After an award-winning career in journalism, Rance Huff has spent 20 years in government, the last 10 as Chief of Staff to Public Advocate Williams.

Deputy Chief of Staff

Josenia Dominguez

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Josenia Dominguez has worked in City government for nearly a decade. She manages the Public Advocate's Office Administration and Human Resources Departments. Josenia's passions include advocating for human rights and children's educational needs.

Senior Advisor for Communications

William Gerlich

Director of Communications

Kevin Fagan

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Kevin has worked with the Public Advocate since 2017, beginning in the City Council. He believes service is doing all the good you can, where you are.

Deputy Digital Media Director

Mirielle Clifford

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Mirielle Clifford believes in the power of digital communications for good. She is passionate about decarceration, labor rights, and disability justice.

Press Officer

Brittney Grimes

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Brittney believes in standing up for what's right and helping others. She is passionate about justice and community service. She has received the National Organization for Women Award and the National Council of Negro Women Achievement Award for her writing. She is a graduate of Hofstra University.

Chief Deputy Public Advocate, Community Affairs

Julissa Gonzalez

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A mother of two, Julissa has a passion for the arts, and all things that bring joy. She has dedicated the last 11 years to working in City government.

Deputy Public Advocate for Housing Equity

Edgardo "Solomon" Acevedo

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Solomon Acevedo is a lifelong activist committed to pursuing justice, health and safety for all.

Deputy Public Advocate for Education & Opportunity

Elizabeth Kennedy

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To ensure our collective work carries us forward with dignity and equity, we must be rooted in community, accountability, and love that constantly asks us all to give our best together and centers our wellbeing.

Deputy Public Advocate for Justice & Safety

Jeffrey Severe

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Justice looks like an opportunity for healing, while safety is freedom from harm.

Deputy Public Advocate for Infrastructure & Environmental Justice

Kashif Hussain

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Kashif Hussain is an experienced infrastructure and environmental engineer who is passionate about equitable transportation and clean energy technology.

Director of Constituent Services

Beverly Gooding

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Beverly Gooding is a proud, native New Yorker dedicated to making sure all of NYC's communities have access to the resources and supports they need to thrive.

Deputy Director of Constituent Services

Melissa Dandin

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Melissa is a caring advocate and has a background in Social Work. She is devoted to serving constituents in NYC, addressing numerous issues they have.

General Counsel

Elizabeth Guzmán, Esq

Deputy General Counsel

Matthew Carlin

Matt is an attorney with over 20 years of experience. At the New York City Council, he worked on complex legislation like the Paid Safe & Sick Leave Law.

Chief Deputy Public Advocate for Policy

Veronica Aveis

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Veronica Aveis is Chief Deputy Public Advocate for Policy. She previously worked as Chief of Staff to Senator Roxanne Persaud, and Political Director for Planned Parenthood in NY.

Director of Legislation and Policy

Rosie Mendez

Director of Scheduling & Executive Operations

Isa Cortez

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Isa Cortez is an experienced director with over a decade history of working in the government administration, legislative relations and non-profit industry.

Deputy Director of Scheduling & Executive Operations

Angela Martinez

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Experienced Special Assistant/Scheduler with over 15 years in city government, providing efficient and effective scheduling services to ensure the smooth running of city operations.

Director of Technology, Development & Data

JC Brillant

J.C. has 20+ years experience. He started his career in the Private Sector with companies like; 1-800-Flowers, Grey Advertising, Amazon, and Microsoft. As Director, he will help our Advocates to implement technology to help improve RESPECT & DIGNITY of all New Yorkers.

Deputy Director of Technology, Data & Development

Ketan Sinha

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Ketan is a passionate advocate for using technology in service of people. He believes it should be used responsibly, ethically, and equitably.