About
Gary
If I had to guess, it seems I was put on this planet to do one thing: identify the best in people and help them reach their full potential. Sometimes the focus is on individuals, sometimes the organizations those individuals make up, and sometimes students, but regardless of whom, my ultimate goal is to help people realize their greater purpose and push them to the next level.
The insight I have to offer is a direct result of my personal journey.
Recent +
Past
History
Gary has over 25 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, most recently as the Executive Director of New York Cares, New York City’s largest organization devoted to driving community impact through volunteer-led programs. His previous experiences include positions at nonprofit organizations focused on arts education – Young Audiences New York and TADA! Youth Theater. He also teaches nonprofit leadership, management, and strategy at Columbia University and Baruch College.
Clientele
Testimonials
“I have had the good fortune of not only seeing Gary's leadership firsthand, but working closely with, learning from, and receiving coaching from Gary for over 20 years. As Gary has gone on his journey in the nonprofit sector, he reflects deeply and shares his wisdom generously. I am a stronger, more confident and compassionate leader because of him.”
— Nancy Kleaver
CEO, Dancing Classrooms
“Gary’s deep and extensive expertise in the field, combined with his charismatic presence and dynamic style, uniquely qualify him to coach boards and leadership teams and to prepare others to lead. Whether he is in a boardroom, conference room, or classroom, Gary guides a group with rigor, inclusive engagement, and a spirit of discovery.”
— Lisa Lewin
CEO, in Residence, Primary Venture Partners
Former CEO, General Assembly
"As a new CEO, it was important to build a strong and collaborative relationship with the board from day one. Gary’s partnership, coaching and sage experience has helped us to energize and engage the board, providing us with the tools and information we needed to set a great future in motion."
— Jenny Lawson
President and CEO, Keep America Beautiful
"I've worked with Gary closely for over a year and he has been instrumental in supporting LEAP's post-pandemic strategy and capacity planning. Gary is a great partner who can both serve as a thoughtful coach and a thorough planner through periods of growth and transition."
— Rich Souto
Executive Director, LEAP
“If you want to lead and get the best out of others, you start by exploring and leading yourself. Gary prepares leaders to do the conscious self-exploration necessary for success.”
— Rashaan Harris, PhD
CEO, Citizens Committee for New York City
TEACHING EXPERIENCE
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Adjunct Professor of International and Public Affairs
Columbia University School of International and Public Affairs -
Adjunct Lecturer, Marxe School of Public and International Affairs of The City University of New York
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Lecturer, Columbia University School of Professional Studies
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Co-author, Volunteer Engagement and Management in Nonprofit Management 101 (Wiley)
AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS
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Notable in Nonprofits and Philanthropy, Crain’s New York
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CSR Responsible 100 (outstanding social responsibility and community leadership), City & State New York
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The New York Times Company Nonprofit Excellence Award for Overall Management Excellence
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Peter F. Drucker Award for Nonprofit Innovation
AFFILIATIONS
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Appointee to the State Commission on National and Community Service
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Board of Directors, National Urban Fellows https://nuf.org
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Board of Directors, Nonprofit New York (www.nonprofitnewyork.org)
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Academic Degrees: Baruch College, MPA; Ithaca College, BS Music Composition
TRAINING & CERTIFICATIONS
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iCoach Professional Coaching Program
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Interim Executive Director Training, Support Center for Nonprofit Management
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Race Equity Institute Groundwater Training