Leadership Breakfast Empowers Next Generation Trailblazers

Energy crackled through York College on Friday as dozens of students and faculty gathered for the annual Executive Leadership Breakfast, sponsored by the National Grid Foundation. The morning’s highlight: an electrifying keynote by Dr. Robert Simmons III, vice president for U.S. Social Impact and Community Engagement, who challenged the next generation to lead with purpose and vision.

The morning began with welcoming remarks from York College Chief of Staff Nyisha Howell, who addressed the audience on behalf of President Claudia Schrader, absent due to a prior commitment.

“We are honored to convene such a distinguished group of leaders who recognize that meaningful progress happens when institutions, businesses, and communities work in partnership,” Howell said. “Today’s conversation comes at a pivotal time, as we collectively explore how to align purpose with strategy to drive sustainable impact. At York College, we are deeply committed to advancing opportunity, strengthening communities, and preparing the next generation of leaders to think boldly and act responsibly. Your presence reflects a shared dedication to these values and to the power of collaboration in shaping a more equitable future.

Juan Santiago, Community Engagement Queens Lead for National Grid and a member of the York College Foundation Board, emceed the program. Howell noted that Santiago brings “a wealth of experience in building strong, impactful partnerships between corporations and communities, with a particular focus on advancing equity and opportunity across Queens.”

Aubrey Kellman, manager of New York Community Engagement and Investment, also delivered brief remarks prior to the keynote, noting that the energy company’s focus “bridges STEM and STEAM.”

He was followed by Dr. Simmons, a dynamic speaker who kept the audience engaged.

“Institutions like York College are central to the work we do,” Dr. Simmons said, referencing the song Project Window by Nas as he encouraged the audience—comprised largely of nursing students—to “leave something behind.”

“Being a good leader means leaving something behind,” Dr. Simmons added. “My mother taught me that service is what you do to support those around you—and that means taking on things that are hard.”

Addressing the large group of nursing students, easily recognizable in their white uniforms, Dr. Simmons emphasized the connection between leadership and service across professions.

“Leadership is rooted in service,” he said. “What you do to support those around you… What will you leave for your patients? I lead from who I am. It’s about authenticity. Show up with purpose. Show up as your authentic self.”