“I Am NextGen” Honoree Connects Residents and Employees
NYCHA continues to bring outstanding employees, residents and other stakeholders to the attention of the public with its popular “I Am NextGen” campaign. Our latest honoree is D’Andra Van Heusen, founding president of NYCHA’s Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer/Questioning (LGBTQ) employee association. Ms. Van Heusen joined NYCHA in 1997 as a Community Associate and has been working in various positions involved with connecting residents to resources and opportunities ever since. She is currently a senior community development coordinator in Community Development.
What are your responsibilities in your current position?
I oversee educational programs for young adults and adults, including computer literacy and high school equivalency preparation. And I also oversee an amazing array of performing arts and creative arts consultants who deliver cultural programs that enrich the lives of thousands of residents.
How does NYCHA’s LGBTQ employee organization fit into NextGen and its goals?
Working to create “safe and connected” communities for NextGeneration NYCHA applies not only to residents but also to employees. Respecting and including the diversity of all employees will help us work together more effectively toward reaching our NextGen goals by providing an opportunity for everyone to contribute to their potential.
Can you describe some of your work on City policies that concern these and related issues?
I have participated in cross-agency work groups through the Mayor’s Office concerning early childhood education and more recently around LGBTQ issues, which have received increasing attention under the current administration.
