Hassell-Thompson Named to State Post

Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo announced Friday that he is appointing Ruth Hassell-Thompson as Special Advisor for Policy and Community Affairs of New York State Homes and Community Renewal.

Hassell-Thompson currently serves as Senator for New York’s 36th Senate District, representing Mount Vernon and part of the Bronx.

She will begin her new role in July.

“As a nurse, an advocate and a member of the New York State Legislature, Senator Hassell-Thompson has spent her entire career fighting to improve lives and build communities,” said Cuomo in a written statement. “I am proud to have her continue this work as a member of my administration and look forward to working with her to build a stronger, fairer and more prosperous New York for all.”

The mission of New York State Homes and Community Renewal is to build, preserve and protect affordable housing and home ownership across the state.

“I am thrilled to be joining Governor Cuomo’s administration within New York State Homes and Community Renewal,” said Hassell-Thompson. “Under Governor Cuomo, HCR has a tremendous impact on advancing housing policy state-wide, including the Governor's efforts in developing and protecting affordable housing and protecting vulnerable communities. I am excited to lend my expertise to those efforts.”

Hassell-Thompson has served in the New York State Senate since 2000. She is also a former City Council President and Acting Mayor of Mount Vernon, having been first elected to the City Council in 1993. She is also a retired nurse for Mount Vernon Hospital, specializing in pediatrics and substance abuse counseling. She is the founding President and CEO of “The Gathering,” a volunteer-staffed women’s center in Mount Vernon that provides counseling and support services, and has also worked extensively with individuals impacted by HIV/AIDS.

Prior to holding an elected office, she was President/CEO of Whart Development Company, Inc., a real estate development company that also provided consultant services to small and developing businesses. She was also the Executive Director of the Westchester Minority Contractors Association, helping to bring opportunities for growth and economic development to minority- and women-owned businesses in the region. Previously, she led the Westchester Community Opportunity Program, which provided medical, social and related support services to local residents in need.

Hassell-Thompson is the recipient of two Honorary Doctorate degrees; Mercy College, Doctor of Humane Letters; and Eastern Theological Consortium, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Christ Theological Seminary, Doctor of Humanities. She is an alumna of Bronx Community College.