BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Our diverse Board of Directors has the responsibility of ensuring compliance with federal laws and regulations in accordance with the Head Start Act and Performance Standards which govern the program.
The WHCO Board of Directors represent community members with experience in fiscal management, legal and early childhood education. Other members reflect the communities served by West Harlem Head Start. The Board of Directors and key management staff work in partnership with the Policy Council to develop, review and approve policies, strategic planning, funding , recruitment, selection, and enrollment policies.
JEROME WHITE, CHAIR
Jerome White is a retired Facilities Manager for properties managed by NYC. He is currently Pastor of a church in Harlem and serves as a volunteer member of Mt. Sinai Hospital Spiritual Care and is a member of Mt. Sinai Hospital’s Planning Board.
JEANETTE SPENCER, VICE CHAIR
Jeanette Spencer is the former Executive Director of West Harlem Head Start (1992-2012) and a Johnson & Johnson Head Start Fellow. She is also involved in the community and the former President of the Harlem Little League.
MARLENE WARD-DEPETRIS, SECRETARY
Marlene Ward-Depetris is a retired NYC licensed and certified Social Worker. She was employed by the NYC Department of Education for 21 years. Ms. Depetris is also a Bank Street College of Education Mental Health Specialist trained to provide trauma therapy to children and families.
DARLENE MOORE, TREASURER
Darlene Moore is a portfolio manager for the National Development Council. She provides oversight to maximize the use of fund capital to support economic development through job creation by local business expansion.
WILLIAM R. FRIED, ATTORNEY
William R. Fried is a partner and co-chair of the litigation department at Herrick, Feinstein LLP. He has significant experience counseling clients through the alternative dispute process, either through negotiation, mediation, or arbitration and has substantial trial and appellate experience in state and federal courts.
CHRISTOPHER DUNN, EARLY CHILDHOOD EXPERT
Christopher Dunn is a NYS certified Teacher in the NYC Department of Education Pre K for All program. He was a former WHCO Assistant Teacher, Lead Teacher and Education Director.