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Jerome Nathaniel
Director of Policy and Government Relations at City Harvest and City Planning Graduate Student at Pratt Institute
Professional Background
Jerome Nathaniel is a dedicated activist and anti-hunger policy expert based in Brooklyn, New York. With over a decade of experience in non-profit organizations focused on anti-poverty initiatives, Jerome has honed his expertise in creating policies that drive social change. His impressive career has included various leadership roles at City Harvest, an organization renowned for its mission to end hunger in New York City. Currently, he serves as the Director of Policy and Government Relations at City Harvest, where he utilizes his extensive understanding of social justice to enhance food security policies and advocate for the needs of vulnerable populations.
Jerome's commitment to activism is mirrored in his previous roles. He has progressed through various positions at City Harvest, including Associate Director of Policy and Government Relations, Senior Program Manager, and Manager of Community Engagement. His journey reflects a solid leadership trajectory full of significant contributions to food scarcity solutions. Before that, he worked with GrowNYC, engaged in community-focused programs that foster sustainability and resilience in urban settings.
Jerome's growth as a leader in the anti-hunger and social justice space has also been enriched by his deep involvement in education and communication. His writing experience spans over 8 years in digital and print journalism, covering a broad spectrum of topics from social justice to the intersection of sports and community. He has contributed to platforms like PolicyMic, where he has made his mark as a pundit, offering insights and commentary on critical issues.
Education and Achievements
Jerome's educational background lays a strong foundation for his current advocacy work. He pursued a Master of Science in City/Urban, Community and Regional Planning at Pratt Institute, where he developed a keen understanding of urban development, social equity, and public policy. His undergraduate studies at the University of Rochester gave him a unique perspective on Religion and Business, enriching his approach to community service and humanitarian efforts. Additionally, his early education at the High School for Leadership and Public Service instilled core leadership principles that have informed his professional journey.
Throughout his career, Jerome has earned recognition for his unwavering dedication to the cause of combating hunger and poverty. His commitment has led him to serve in various roles that emphasize community engagement, policy advocacy, and education. As a leader at City Harvest, he has overseen initiatives and collaborated with partners to fortify community resources and amplify the voices of those affected by food insecurity. His extensive background in writing complements his policy work, allowing him to effectively communicate the urgent need for action in addressing these pressing social issues.
Notable Projects and Contributions
Jerome's advocacy does not stop with his formal roles; he has contributed significantly to a variety of organizations aimed at advancing social justice. His past work with the Campaign to End the New Jim Crow underscores his commitment to addressing systemic issues related to race and equality in America. As a Healing and Transformative Justice Intern with the American Friends Service Committee, he enriched his understanding of restorative justice, applying these principles in efforts to drive social change.
Moreover, as a Gandhi Service Fellow, he embraced nonviolent principles and focused on community development, promoting peace and justice in various contexts. His media experience, notably as a Bruce Schimmel Innovative Journalism Scholar at Brooklyn Downtown Star, has equipped him with the tools to advocate for marginalized voices effectively. His editorial work at The Campus Times and contributions as a Young Professionals' Blogger at the Democrat and Chronicle exemplify his ability to engage diverse audiences and influence public discourse on important social topics.
Jerome Nathaniel stands as a remarkable figure in the landscape of activism and policy advocacy. His blend of hands-on experience in community engagement, policy development, and communication uniquely positions him to lead transformative initiatives in anti-hunger efforts and beyond.
