2023 CDF Proctor Institute Leadership

Hassanah Smith serves as the Youth Leadership and Advocacy Coordinator of the Children’s Defense Fund- New York office. She brings a plethora of experience working with youth in marginalized communities, designing civic education workshops, and boots on the ground advocacy work to enhance the lives of those belonging to the low socioeconomic backgrounds. In the past Hassanah served as a program coordinator for the Muslim Community Network bridging the gap and building partnerships between Muslim youth, communities, and New York City’s local government. She also worked in her hometown Newark, NJ managing grants used to combat blight in the greater Newark area. Residents were empowered to beautify areas in the community and build camaraderie. Ms. Smith holds a Bachelor’s degree obtained from William Paterson University and a Master’s degree in Public Administration from Rutgers University –Newark. She is planning to matriculate into a Juris Doctorate program very soon to continue to impact the lives of others.