Dr. Cristina Melendez

Executive Director of the Office of Family & Community Engagement
New York Department of Education

Dr. Cristina Meléndez, an accomplished professional and captivating keynote speaker, firmly believes in the power of merging school expertise with family expertise to unlock children's boundless potential. As the Executive Director of the Office of Family and Community Engagement for New York City Public Schools, she orchestrates the realization of optimal outcomes for families and educational institutions alike. With a rich background in teaching and serving in various esteemed NYC Department of Education, Cristina has garnered invaluable experience as an Assistant Principal, Achievement Coach, and Chief Strategy Officer. Her visionary leadership has resulted in transformative partnerships with renowned companies such as Microsoft and Google, enabling students to access a diverse array of opportunities.

Beyond her remarkable contributions within educational settings, Cristina extends her impact as a consultant, offering targeted services that elevate children's educational attainment levels. Her doctoral studies at the prestigious University of Pennsylvania centered on a comprehensive exploration of Latino parenting practices, showcasing her dedication to understanding and supporting diverse cultural perspectives. Cristina's academic journey encompasses a Bachelor of Science degree from Cornell University, along with two Masters' degrees from Columbia University's Teacher's College in Organizational Leadership and Bicultural/Bilingual Transcultural Education. Through her unwavering commitment, expertise, and compelling speaking engagements, Cristina Melendez serves as an inspirational force, igniting change and fostering collaboration to unlock the full potential of education, families, and communities.