Dr. Ghislaine Radegonde-Eison Named Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Rochester President and CEO
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Rochester has appointed Dr. Ghislaine Radegonde-Eison as its new president and chief executive officer. She brings nearly 25 years of experience in higher education, leadership, and community building to the organization.
"We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Radegonde-Eison to lead our organization into its next chapter," said Chris Huels, chair of the board of directors at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Rochester. "Her extensive background in mentorship, dedication to youth empowerment, and commitment to fostering inclusive communities make her the perfect leader to advance our mission of building transformative relationships that help young people reach their full potential."
Dr. Radegonde-Eison joins the organization after more than two decades at the University of Rochester, where she most recently served as director of alumni relations and constituent engagement. In that role, she developed strategies for affinity networks and strengthened engagement efforts among identity-based and historically underrepresented communities, including Black alumni, first-generation students, LGBTQ+ individuals, and Latin/Hispanic alumni. She also played a key role in establishing the university's Department of Black Studies and held a teaching appointment in the Department of Modern Languages and Cultures, where she mentored numerous students.
She currently serves as chair of the board of trustees for the Young Women's College Preparatory Charter School (YWCP). Under her leadership, YWCP received the 2024 Elevating Women Award from the Rochester Business Journal for its efforts to support and empower women in New York.
"I am honored to join Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Rochester and continue the vital work of supporting youth through meaningful mentoring relationships," Dr. Radegonde-Eison said. "As a Big Sister myself, I have witnessed firsthand how mentorship transforms lives. I strongly believe in Kofi Annan's words: 'Knowledge is power. Knowledge shared is power multiplied. Mentoring is a way to share that knowledge.'"
In her new role, Dr. Radegonde-Eison will focus on empowering individuals, fostering inclusivity, and strengthening relationships within Greater Rochester's diverse communities. She is committed to expanding the organization's reach, growing the volunteer base, and deepening its impact on youth and families.
Dr. Radegonde-Eison joins the organization ahead of its Annual Gala on April 11, 2025. The event, the organization's largest fundraiser of the year, will be held at Cobblestone Creek Country Club and will feature keynote speaker Jim Boeheim, legendary Syracuse University basketball coach.
"We invite the Greater Rochester community to join us for an inspiring evening that directly supports the life-hanging mentoring relationships we provide for local youth," said Gala Chair Paul Guglielmo. "We are excited to introduce Dr. Radegonde-Eison to our partners, stakeholders, and volunteers at this special event."
The gala will include dinner, auctions, testimonials from program participants, and a presentation by Boeheim. Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available online.
For more information about Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Rochester, the upcoming gala, or how to get involved, visit BeABig.org.
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