Media Resources

Founder's Bio

Dr. Deborah Kenny, CEO & Founder

Deborah Kenny is the founder and Chief Executive of Harlem Village Academies, and is widely regarded as one of the most influential educational entrepreneurs in the country. Dr. Kenny was the founding Principal of the flagship Harlem Village Academy, which made history when 100% of eighth graders passed the New York State math test, ranking them #1 of all public schools in New York State. This marked the first time ever in the history of Harlem that a public school achieved 100% passing in math, and the track record has continued for four years. In addition, in 2010, 100% scored proficient in science and 100% in social studies. Harlem Village Academies regularly host visitors from around the world.

Previously, Dr. Kenny served as Group President of Sesame Street Publishing, and as Vice President of Marketing and Business Development of Time Warner's Parenting Group, where she developed new product lines for parents and children. She is a former classroom teacher with expertise in youth leadership training and curriculum development.

Dr. Kenny is regularly featured in national media, most recently in The New York Times, Business Week, The CBS Evening News, NBC Nightly News, FOX News, and NPR. She was recently named to Oprah’s 2010 Power List, and recognized as one of Esquire magazine’s “Best and Brightest” in the country. Kenny was honored as "Educator of the Year" presented by New York City Schools Chancellor Joel Klein, and received the national "Educators who Perform" award at the Center for Education Reform gala in Washington, DC. She holds a Ph.D. and M.A. from Columbia University in comparative international education, and a B.A. Magna Cum Laude from the University of Pennsylvania.