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Fernando Ferrer

Borough President of the Bronx

With over 25 years of innovative, effective and accomplished leadership in New York City Government, FERNANDO FERRER is recognized nationally as an architect for revitalizing American cities. During his 14-year tenure as Borough President of The Bronx, Ferrer designed and oversaw the largest urban rebuilding effort in the country -- transforming what was once a national symbol of urban decay into an international model for urban revival. On Ferrer's watch, over 66,000 small homes and apartments were built, over 34,000 new jobs were created by hundreds of new businesses and over 2.5 billion dollars were invested in institutional renewal and growth. Literacy, library and high-speed internet access initiatives were made possible in every Bronx Public School. Ferrer was also proud to be a party to the historic Campaign for Fiscal Equity lawsuit which is aimed at securing a fair share of education funding for New York City schoolchildren. In 1997, the Bronx revival was recognized by the National Civic League with the prestigious ALL-AMERICA CITY Award and in 1999, the borough's innovative health care initiatives, including the groundbreaking Bronx Health Link, was saluted by City and County Magazine with the presentation of their CROWN COMMUNITY Award. First elected interim Borough President by the Bronx delegation to the City Council by a unanimous vote, Ferrer received a public mandate of 87% in the General Election seven months later. Ten years and three terms later, Ferrer again was reelected by an 87% majority in 1997. During his service as a Member of the New York City Council representing the 13th District from 1982 to 1987, Ferrer authored the Police Padlock Law, the Window Guard Law and the first Civilian Complaint Review Board Law, as well as championing laws barring discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation, language among others. In 2001, Ferrer ran an historic campaign for Mayor of New York City, highlighting the issues which affect the lives of each and every New Yorker. His message resonated throughout the five boroughs and brought inspiration to those who believe that hope and opportunity are the building blocks for a brighter tomorrow and should be accessible to all citizens of this city. Fernando Ferrer was born in the Bronx on April 30, 1950. He earned his BA degree from the University Heights Campus of New York University. He has received honorary degrees from Manhattan, Mercy and Audrey Cohen Colleges, as well as hundreds of awards from schools, community groups, institutions and faith communities. Ferrer currently is President of the Drum Major Institute, a non-profit, progressive policy organization dedicated to economic and social justice. Chaired by Ambassador Andrew Young, the Drum Major Institute is located in Midtown Manhattan. E-mail: FFerrer@drummajorinstitute.org

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