Buffalo Administrator Recipient of NYS Leadership and Support Award

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Dr. Jennifer A. Rich

ALBANY, NY (03/18/2025) (readMedia)-- Dr. Jennifer Rich, director of the Buffalo Public Schools Department of Family & Community Engagement, has been selected as the recipient of the 2025 Leadership and Support Award by the School Administrators Association of New York State (SAANYS). The SAANYS Leadership and Support Award recognizes the outstanding leadership efforts of those members whose responsibilities require leadership through support services to fellow administrators across and between school buildings and/or districts.

Rich's leadership for Buffalo Public Schools (BPS) includes her work as director of the Family & Community Engagement Department. She previously served as supervisor for the department from 2021 to 2023 and was a special education teacher at Bennett Park Montessori Center for 15 years. Of her work as a leader in Buffalo Public Schools, Rich says, "Setting clear SMART goals for my team has been essential. The 'M' (measurable) is one of the most important parts. Having data that can be reviewed regularly provides the opportunity for productive conversations and growth. By establishing a maximum of three overarching goals as a North Star, we ensure proactive approaches to educational leadership."

Rich also emphasizes the importance of listening, stating, "Providing meaningful and authentic opportunities to listen to staff, students, families, and the surrounding community is critical. Data tells one story, but listening to those impacted paints the full picture. This practice has been invaluable in district-level leadership."

Rich's leadership extends beyond Buffalo Public Schools. She is a member of the National Assembly for Family Engagement in Education (NAFSCE) and serves on the fundraising subcommittee of the Danceability Board of Directors. She is also the founder and CEO of Playground Equity Consulting, an organization dedicated to advocating for accessible and inclusive play spaces. Additionally, she is an active member of the St. Mary's School for the Deaf PTO and participates in research and community feedback initiatives with Friends of Medina Parks.

Alyssa Monfuletho, assistant superintendent of Buffalo Public Schools, says, "Dr. Jennifer Rich tirelessly supports not just the parents, caregivers, and guardians of Buffalo Public Schools students. She diligently works with district staff and the community to build leadership among our families and educate colleagues and the community about parent engagement and involvement."

Rich earned her doctorate in educational leadership from D'Youville University in 2024, a master's in educational leadership from St. Bonaventure University in 2020, and a master's in special education and elementary education from Daemen University in 2006. She received her bachelor of arts from St. Bonaventure University in 2003.

Rich and fellow 2025 award winners will be recognized at SAANYS' annual awards celebration, taking place on May 2 at the Desmond Hotel-Crown Plaza Albany.

SAANYS represents nearly 22,000 school administrators, supervisors, and retirees. As a professional association, SAANYS is committed to providing direction, service, and support to the membership in their efforts to improve the quality of education and leadership in New York State schools. SAANYS is affiliated with the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP) and the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP).