STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Mayor Zohran Mamdani has appointed five New Yorkers to lead key city agencies, including Yesenia Mata as commissioner of the New York City Department of Veterans’ Services.
Mamdani announced the appointments on Saturday, highlighting Mata’s extensive background as executive director of La Colmena in Port Richmond. He noted that Mata will be the first Latina to hold the position of commissioner.
“New York City is built on the often unseen work of public servants who show up every day to care for our neighbors, support our young people, and make government work for the people who rely on it most,” Mamdani said. “Today, we are entrusting five dedicated leaders with the responsibility to carry that work forward.”
Mata is a veteran of the U.S. Army, currently serving as a Military Police sergeant, and a long-standing advocate for both immigrant and veteran communities. She previously served as Sen. Bernie Sanders’ national Latino outreach strategist and as political director for the Dream Action Coalition.
Mata moved to Staten Island in 2016 after working on political campaigns across the country, drawn to the borough while strategizing for Sanders’ presidential run. She also currently serves as a member of the New York City Racial Justice Commission.
Leaders from across the city have praised Mata’s appointment. Murad Awawdeh, president and CEO of The New York Immigration Coalition, stated that Mata is “a powerful leader” and “a living reminder that immigrants and the children of immigrants serve and uphold the Constitution.” Frankie Miranda, president and CEO of the Hispanic Federation, called Mata “a remarkable Latina leader” who embodies dedication, service, and leadership.
As commissioner, Mata will focus on connecting veterans to essential resources, including housing, healthcare, and entrepreneurial opportunities. She expressed her commitment to ensuring all veterans and military families in New York City feel seen, supported, and empowered.
Alongside Mata’s appointment, Mayor Mamdani also named Dr. Alister Martin as commissioner of the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, Stanley Richards as commissioner of the Department of Correction, Sandra Escamilla-Davies as commissioner of the Department of Youth and Community Development, and Vilda Vera Mayuga as commissioner of the Office of Administrative Trials and Hearings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What will Yesenia Mata’s role be as commissioner?
Yesenia Mata will lead the Department of Veterans’ Services, connecting New York City veterans to housing, healthcare, entrepreneurship opportunities, and other supportive services.
What is Mata’s background?
Mata is the executive director of La Colmena, a U.S. Army Military Police sergeant, and a veteran of numerous political campaigns, including serving as Sen. Bernie Sanders’ national Latino outreach strategist.
Is this a historic appointment?
Yes, Mayor Mamdani stated that Yesenia Mata is the first Latina to serve as commissioner of the New York City Department of Veterans’ Services.
How might these appointments impact the city’s approach to serving its diverse communities?
