Orisha Jennings-Hudgins Mpa, Valar Emba Candidate

Orisha Jennings-Hudgins, MPA, Valar EMBA Candidate has a diverse and extensive work experience spanning over three decades. Orisha currently holds the position of Executive Director / Assistant to the City Manager - Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at the City of New Rochelle. Prior to this role, they served as the Assistant to the City Manager and the Executive Director of Development Operations/Assistant to the City Manager for the same organization.

Before joining the City of New Rochelle, Orisha worked at the New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) for over a decade. Orisha held various roles during their tenure at NYCHA, including Senior Advisor, Project Manager, Research Analyst, and Policy Analyst.

Orisha'scareer also includes a stint at the New York City Department of Environmental Protection, where they served as the Director of Project Management/Business Liaison Office of Information Technology.

Orisha's employment history also includes roles at Columbia University in the City of New York. Orisha worked as a Departmental Administrator from 1999 to 2003, and prior to that, they held positions including Executive Assistant to the Dean, Executive Secretary to the President, and Secretary to the President from 1991 to 1997.

Orisha Jennings-Hudgins, MPA, Valar EMBA Candidate has a diverse education history. Orisha started their academic journey by obtaining a Highschool Diploma in Accounting and Business/Management from Murry Bergratraum in 1989. After completing their high school education, they attended Baruch College from 1989 to 1991, majoring in Accounting. Orisha then transferred to Columbia University and graduated in 1999 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Urban Studies and History.

In 2002, Orisha pursued a Master's degree in Public Administration with a specialization in Public Policy and Management at Long Island University. Orisha successfully completed their studies in 2011. Additionally, in 2002, Orisha attended Columbia University again, focusing on the Analysis and Design of Information Systems.

In 2023, Orisha enrolled at Valar Institute and anticipates completing an Executive MBA program in Strategic Leadership by 2024. During their time at Valar Institute, they attained several certifications, including Theories of Leadership, Cultural Intelligence, and Talent Management.

Overall, Orisha Jennings-Hudgins has displayed a commitment to continuous education and professional development throughout their career, acquiring qualifications in various fields of study, such as public administration, urban studies, history, information systems, and strategic leadership.