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NYCHA Now
Exceptional Colleagues May 2023 

Meet the Coaching and Mentoring Leadership Academy Participants 

Nii Akrofi Smart-Abbey

In January 2023, NYCHA launched its first-ever Coaching and Mentoring Leadership Academy (CMLA). Participants in the 16-week program are receiving training and coaching in areas such as strategic communications and crisis management, and they get the opportunity to enhance their leadership and management skills through mentorship.    

Read on to learn more about a few of the mentors and mentees participating in the Leadership Academy.      

Assistant Property Maintenance Supervisor Robert Victorian and Neighborhood Administrator Anthony Dingle     

Robert Victorian is an Assistant Property Maintenance Supervisor at Taft Houses

Robert Victorian started his NYCHA career in 2006 as a temporary employee working in the Human Resources Department. He became a permanent employee in 2012 – as a Caretaker J at Lafayette Gardens. He then served as a Heating Plant Technician, and he is currently an Assistant Property Maintenance Superintendent at Taft Houses. 

Mr. Victorian joined the CMLA because he loves learning and wants to be better at his job.  

“My experience being part of CMLA has been a journey in itself, as I’ve seen so much personal growth that I didn’t expect in such a short period of time,” said Mr. Victorian. “I’ve learned so much about being a leader and even more about what leaders should not do. I have a great seasoned mentor, Mr. Anthony Dingle, who continues to amaze me with his knowledge and feedback regarding my professional and personal life. I would encourage anyone looking to be coached by a seasoned working professional to apply for the next round of this program.” 

Anthony Dingle is a Neighborhood Administrator in Manhattan Property Management

 Anthony Dingle’s career at NYCHA started in 1990 as a Maintenance Worker. He has since served in different capacities, including as an Assistant Superintendent and Superintendent. He is currently a Neighborhood Administrator in Manhattan Property Management.        

Mr. Dingle joined the CMLA because he wanted to share his knowledge and expertise as well as help other staff become better managers and leaders.        

“The CMLA is a good thing,” said Mr. Dingle. “I am enjoying my participation in the program, because years ago I was also a mentee, and that program was very helpful for my growth at NYCHA. It allowed me to give back to my mentee, Mr. Victorian.”