YONKERS, NY – June 30, 2020 – Mayor Mike Spano today swore in Lakisha Collins-Bellamy as his newest appointment to the Yonkers Board of Education. As trustee of the Yonkers Board of Education, Collins-Bellamy will join eight other members of the Board, which is the official policy making body of the School District. The new trustee appointment comes as Dr. Edward Fergus’ term expires. Collins-Bellamy’ term is effective immediately.

“As we work toward providing our students with the best education possible, I am proud to appoint Lakisha Collins-Bellamy to the Board of Education as she brings a unique perspective as a parent and an alumna. Lakisha is passionate about education in Yonkers and her experiences and knowledge will be valuable assets to our District and our students,” said Mayor Spano.

A lifelong resident of Yonkers, Lakisha Collins-Bellamy currently serves as legal counsel for the Municipal Housing Authority of Yonkers (MHACY) and operates her own law practice, focusing in family law and real estate. In her work with MHACY, Collins-Bellamy administers procurement and contract management processes. During her tenure, Collins-Bellamy also served as the Director of Housing Programs and was the Compliance Director and Contracts Officer. Collins-Bellamy is a graduate of Yonkers’ Roosevelt High School and is a parent to a Yonkers Public Schools student. Collins-Bellamy holds a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from State University of New York at New Paltz, a Master’s degree in Public Administration from Marist College and Juris Doctor from New York Law School.

Lakisha Collins-Bellamy commented, "I am honored to join the other members of the Board of Education in their commitment to promote opportunity and equal access to all Yonkers students in their pursuit of academic excellence. I am most appreciative to Mayor Spano for his faith in me as we collectively strive for the very best for our Yonkers children.”

“The Trustees and I welcome Mrs. Collins-Bellamy.  As a parent and former student, her personal experiences will be welcomed in her new role as a Trustee.  On behalf of the Trustees, I would like to thank Dr. Edward Fergus for his contributions to the Board during his term,” said Reverend Steve Lopez, Yonkers Board of Education President.

Dr. Edwin M. Quezada, Superintendent of Schools added, “As we continue moving our students and district on a positive trajectory there is significant collaborative work before the Trustees and the District employees.  I look forward to the contributions Mrs. Collins-Bellamy will provide.  Mrs. Collins-Bellamy knowledge, skills and experiences will support and further inform the progressive work the Board has been doing.  Thank you Dr. Fergus for always offering valuable perspectives and support.”

Collins-Bellamy will serve a new five year term that runs through June 2025.