Iris Blanc

As VE’s founder and longtime Executive Director, Iris leads the organization’s curriculum, instruction, and fundraising efforts. Under her leadership, the VE team has continuously developed new strategies for providing real-world learning and opportunities for all students, including the recent addition of the VE-JV Middle School Career Academy. Prior to her current role, Iris was the Director of VE for the New York City Department of Education, which piloted the VE high school program in seven high schools in 1996.

Iris has over 35 years of experience working at all levels of public education as a teacher, assistant principal, central district administrator, and author of computer technology textbooks and reference guides. She began her professional career in marketing research for a New York City advertising agency. Iris holds two master’s degrees—an M.S. in Education from Baruch College and an M.S. in Education and Administration from New York University. Outside of work, Iris enjoys spending time with family, reading, playing tennis, and going to the theater.