Dawn S. Walker
Assistant Vice President, Communications & External Relations
Medgar Evers College
Brooklyn, N.Y.
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Throughout a career of senior positions at some of New York City?s leading corporate, public and nonprofit entities, Dawn S. Walker has built effective communications programs, created and implemented successful public relations and fundraising strategies, and functioned as an official spokesperson for the media. After earning a bachelor?s degree in American studies and communications from the State University of New York (SUNY)/College at Old Westbury, Walker became a public affairs representative for Consolidated Edison of New York, director of communications for the New York City Food Bank, and director of public relations and communications for the Girl Scout Council, and the YMCA of Greater New York, respectively. From 2007 to 2010, she was deputy press secretary in the Mayor?s Office of the City of New York, leaving there to become director of public and private partnerships for the New York City Housing Authority.
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In addition to fundraising ? she helped to generate nearly $30 million to support various community development programs for NYCHA ? Walker is adept at relationship management and coalition building, crucial skills in the private and public sector. ?When I worked in the Mayor?s office, I found it amazing and humbling that I was included in some of the most important policy decisions being made for the greatest city in the world,? she says. Last August, Walker assumed the position of assistant vice president of communications and external relations for Medgar Evers College/City University of New York (CUNY), a role that requires her to implement programs that effectively enhance awareness of the institution. She also serves as executive director of the college?s Educational Foundation.
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Walker has a deep appreciation for humor and laughter and tries to never take herself too seriously. Speaking of her devotion to her sons, Nile and Jordan, she says, ?every professional decision has been made with them in mind.?
