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Stacey Flanagan
Health & Human Services Executive
Introduction
Stacey L. Flanagan is a prominent figure in public health and nonprofit management, currently serving as the Director of the City of Jersey City's award-winning Department of Health and Human Services. Her extensive experience and leadership in various capacities have significantly contributed to the enhancement of community health initiatives and services. Flanagan's career is characterized by a deep commitment to improving the lives of individuals and families through innovative programs and strategic partnerships.
Professional Background
Before joining the Fulop Administration, Stacey made significant strides in the nonprofit sector as the Director of Neighborhood WIC at Public Health Solutions. In this role, she played a crucial part in refining the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) supplemental food program and enhancing the WIC Vendor Management Agency. Her innovative approaches helped streamline processes and expand access to essential resources for vulnerable populations. Flanagan's experience in the public health domain showcases her emphasis on collaborative efforts to foster community wellness.
Earlier in her career, she served as a National Manager at Share Our Strength's Cooking Matters program. Here, she successfully implemented a franchise-style direct service initiative across 16 states, facilitating partnerships with Executive Directors to develop comprehensive program protocols, licensing, and contract agreements. This initiative not only improved the accessibility of nutritious food but also educated communities about healthy cooking and eating habits.
In addition to her direct service and program management roles, Flanagan imparted her expertise as a Part-time Faculty Member at the New School Graduate Program for International Affairs. Teaching courses on program development and research methods, she laid a strong foundation for aspiring professionals in the field of public policy and nonprofit management.
Stacey's commitment extends internationally, as demonstrated by her tenure as a U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer. Serving as a community development specialist in Costa Rica, she collaborated with the National Development Corporation to provide vital training and technical assistance to local municipalities. Her efforts in fostering small enterprise businesses, particularly for women, exemplify her dedication to empowering communities through sustainable development.
Education and Achievements
Stacey Flanagan is well-educated and continuously seeks to expand her knowledge. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Michigan State University, where she laid the groundwork for her understanding of governance and policy. Further enhancing her skills, she obtained a Master of Science in Nonprofit Management from Milano, The New School for Urban Policy and Management. These educational experiences equipped her with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills to excel in her various roles.
In 2019, Flanagan participated in the Women’s Leadership Forum at Harvard Business School Executive Education. This prestigious program provided her with advanced leadership techniques and strategies, further enhancing her capabilities as a leader in health and human services.
Achievements
Throughout her career, Stacey has garnered recognition for her contributions to the fields of health and community development. Under her leadership, the City of Jersey City's Department of Health and Human Services has received accolades for its innovative approaches and impactful programs that address public health concerns and improve quality of life for residents. Flanagan's commitment to excellence in health services has positioned her as a key player in public health advocacy in the Jersey City community.
Moreover, her experience with organizations such as Big Brothers Big Sisters of New York City highlights her ability to create and implement impactful training programs that empower youth nonprofits. By managing a collaborative venture with Fordham University Graduate School of Social Services, she equipped over 1,000 youth organizations in NYC with essential skills and training, ensuring their success in serving the community.
Additionally, her involvement as a Mandel Fellow at The Leader to Leader Institute allowed her to coordinate a national training program centered on the Drucker Self-Assessment Tool and the Meeting the Collaboration Challenge. This role further exemplified her commitment to leadership development and organizational effectiveness within the nonprofit sector.
Stacey Flanagan's journey reflects a blend of compassion, dedication, and expertise in public service. Through her various roles, she has effectively driven positive change, making lasting impacts on individuals and communities. Her professional trajectory not only showcases her leadership capabilities but also underscores her relentless pursuit of equity, health, and well-being for all. As she continues to lead the Department of Health and Human Services in Jersey City, her vision remains clear – to uplift the community through innovative healthcare solutions and compassionate outreach, setting a standard for public health initiatives across the nation.