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Michael Partis
Executive Director at Bronx Cooperative Development Initiative
Professional Background
Michael Partis is a distinguished social impact leader with an extensive background in applied research, program development, and organizational management. With nearly a decade of experience, he has passionately dedicated his career to advancing social justice, civic engagement, and educational access. Michael's commitment to enhancing the lives of marginalized communities has led to significant contributions in various sectors, including higher education, restorative justice, and community development.
Throughout his career, Michael has engaged in policy research focused on critical issues such as increasing access to higher education, evaluating the impact of restorative justice programs in K-12 education, and examining the resident experiences within government-subsidized housing. His work not only informs policy discussions but also helps tailor solutions that improve the lives of individuals in these communities.
At Young Movement Inc, where he served as Director, Michael orchestrated innovative programming centered on civic engagement and post-secondary success, successfully reaching over 500 college students and millennials through comprehensive financial literacy courses, social entrepreneurship workshops, and public policy panels. This initiative fostered an environment of learning and growth, empowering young people to take control of their financial futures and explore pathways to professional success.
Michael has held various leadership roles, including managing political campaigns and directing a place-based collective impact initiative. Notably, he co-founded The Bronx Brotherhood Project, a grassroots organization dedicated to supporting Black and Latino teens in their journey towards academic success. By providing a platform for mentorship and resources, this project has positively influenced countless lives in the Bronx community.
Education and Achievements
Michael's academic journey has been marked by a rigorous pursuit of knowledge that complements his professional aspirations. He is currently pursuing advanced studies in anthropology at The Graduate Center, City University of New York, with a focus on issues that intersect with social justice, education equity, and community impacts. His foundational education includes a Bachelor of Arts in African-American/Black Studies from Fordham University, where he developed a deep understanding of the historical and cultural contexts that shape the experiences of Black communities in America.
As an educator, Michael has proudly contributed to the City University of New York system over the past decade. He serves as a lecturer and has taught courses in urban studies at LIU Brooklyn, sharing his expertise and insights on key societal issues. His scholarly work has been recognized in respected academic journals, with published research examining digital protest movements in relation to the 2016 Presidential election, as well as investigations into social capital among two-year college students, the implications of economic development policy on small businesses, and the impact of urban evictions on family structures and kinship systems.
Notable Achievements
Michael’s career is distinguished by a series of impactful roles and initiatives that underscore his commitment to social change and educational equity.
- As the Executive Director of the Bronx Cooperative Development Initiative, Michael plays a pivotal role in advancing cooperative economic models that empower local communities in the Bronx.
- In his previous role as a researcher at the Bronx African American History Project at Fordham University, he contributed significantly to the understanding of historical narratives that shape current socio-political realities.
- During his tenure at iMentor as a qualitative research assistant, he deepened his expertise in mentorship and educational program development, which further enhanced his capabilities in community engagement and student support.
- As the Director at South Bronx Rising Together, he nurtured collaborative initiatives aimed at promoting community well-being and addressing systemic inequalities.
- Furthermore, his experience as a campaign manager for Cunningham 4 NYC illustrated his ability to lead team efforts in political campaign management and public outreach, emphasizing how civic engagement can drive community-level change.
With a rich tapestry of experiences, Michael Partis exemplifies what it means to be a dedicated advocate for social impact. His ability to blend academic theory with practical application positions him as a forward-thinking leader in addressing contemporary challenges in education, social justice, and community resilience.
In summary, Michael’s expertise in research, education, and community organizing, combined with his passion for making a difference, has equipped him with the tools necessary to effect positive change in society. He continues to inspire others through his leadership, innovative programming, and commitment to empowering the next generation of leaders.