Dr. Nieves addressing attendees at Innovation Conference.

A compassionate civic leader for today’s crossroads.

Lisette's work in academia, philanthropy, politics, and the private sector set her apart as a public intellectual and social interrogator. On her podcast, The Junction with Lisette Nieves, she invites provocateurs, culture makers, activists, deep thinkers and agile leaders to explore the moments that most shaped them—and those that are shaping our society right now.

Dr. Lisette Nieves is a visionary civic leader and nationally recognized advocate for public service innovation. She serves as President of the Fund for the City of New York (FCNY), where she leads one of the nation’s oldest and most respected civic research and innovation institutions dedicated to strengthening the effectiveness of government and nonprofit organizations.

In this role, Dr. Nieves sets the strategic direction of the Fund, overseeing policy innovation, applied research, leadership development, and operational initiatives that improve public systems in New York City and beyond.

About Lisette Nieves

A smiling woman with shoulder-length dark brown hair, wearing a blue blazer, black top, and a pearl necklace, standing against a textured dark wall.

“Leaders do their best work with and through others.”

- Lisette Nieves