NYSAWA is pleased to present NYSAWA Celebrates Phenomenal Women, a virtual statewide event for education leaders at all levels.
The event will take place via Zoom on Tuesday, Feb. 3 from 4:30 – 6:00 p.m.
This year, we will be celebrating and hearing from Lynne Rutnik, District Superintendent, Wayne-Finger Lakes BOCES, Dr. Aurelia Henriquez, Superintendent Port Chester Public Schools, and Dr. Nyree Dixon, Executive Director of Student Support and Operations, New York City Community School District 29.
Meet our speakers
Dr. Nyree Dixon
Dr. Nyree Dawn Dixon is a veteran educator with over twenty-nine years of service in the New York City public school system. She began her career as an elementary school teacher, teaching kindergarten, second grade, and fifth grade, and later spent a year teaching high school in Beijing, China. Dr. Dixon went on to serve as both an Assistant Principal and Principal in Brooklyn, New York. During her twelve-year tenure as principal, she led a successful turnaround of a school identified for closure by the New York State Education Department. She attributes this transformation to collaborative leadership, accountability, a laser-like focus on instruction, and data-informed decision-making to improve student outcomes.
Dr. Dixon is deeply committed to developing the next generation of leaders in New York City. She co-led My Sister’s Keeper in New York City Public Schools, an initiative focused on improving life outcomes for girls, young women, and anyone who identifies as a girl or woman. She also made history as the first Black female Superintendent of District 14, serving 10,000+ students, focusing on student learning, enrichment, equity, CRSE, and partnerships.
Dr. Aurelia L. Henriquez
Dr. Aurelia L. Henriquez is Superintendent of Schools in Port Chester Rye School District. She also serves on three boards: as Treasurer of the New York State Association of Women Administrators, an active board member of the New York State Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents, and she works as a board member for the Domestic Violence Council of Westchester County. With twenty-nine years of experience, Dr. Henriquez held several positions in rural, urban, and suburban schools throughout her career in the most diverse school districts on Long Island and in New York State. She has previously served as Superintendent of Schools as well as the Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum, Instruction and Personnel. For twenty-three years, she had the incredible opportunity to work in the largest suburban school district, outside of New York City (Brentwood) with 20,000 students. Her experiences as a primary and intermediate teacher, staff/curriculum developer, Assistant Principal, Principal, Adjunct Professor, Assistant Superintendent and Superintendent of Schools, have developed her knowledge of New York State Standards and the needs of a diverse population of students, staff, and all key stakeholders.
Dr. Henriquez is committed to changing the narrative for aspiring female Superintendents and for underrepresented communities. Her passions include women in leadership and inclusive excellence.
Lynne C. Rutnik
Lynne C. Rutnik is an equity-centered educational leader with nearly 30 years of experience across public education. Her leadership journey spans building-level administration, district cabinet roles, component superintendent, regional BOCES leadership, and state-level collaboration with the New York State Education Department. Her experience includes leading in rural, suburban and urban school communities. Lynne leads through gratitude, hope and relationships. Grounded in her unwavering “why”, which includes a deep commitment to access, excellence, and belonging, she centers culturally responsive practices, inclusive decision-making, and systemwide improvement to make a positive impact for those she serves.
In February 2026, Lynne returned to her home and joined The Albany City School District to serve as Assistant Superintendent for Secondary Instruction, a role that aligns with her values, heart, family, and lifelong passion for service.
Lynne is deeply committed to uplifting women in leadership—through executive coaching, sponsoring, advocacy, and intentional leadership development, she finds deep fulfillment in creating space for leaders to reflect, grow, and lead with authenticity, courage, confidence and purpose. Behind every milestone Lynne has achieved is the steady force of her family— They are her greatest joy, her strongest why, and the reason she works tirelessly to ensure every student and every community experiences belonging, purpose, and possibility.
Meet our keynote
Chermele Christy, Dean of Students, Hofstra University
Chermele brings more than 15 years of higher education experience to her role as Dean of Students at Hofstra University. A proud Bridgeport, Connecticut native, she holds a degree in elementary education from Saint Peter’s University and an MSED in Special Education from Wagner College. Throughout her career—including roles at Hofstra and Xavier University of Louisiana—she has been known for her unwavering commitment to student advocacy, campus spirit, and supportive leadership.
Outside of work, she’s often cheering on Hofstra basketball with her son, supporting his athletic pursuits, or spending time at the dog park with their goldendoodle. Her warmth, contagious laugh, and dynamic presence make her an inspiring speaker you won’t want to miss!
Learn more about the event
Phenomenal Women is an annual virtual event that shines a light on the stories and experiences of today’s educational trailblazers and provides a space for attendees to share their career experiences and connect with peers across New York state.
Our 2026 Phenomenal Women were nominated by NYSAWA members and will present brief Ted talk-style speeches, sharing their respective experiences from their career journeys and more. Registered attendees will receive an email on Monday, Feb. 2 with a link to the event.
Join us on Tuesday, February 3 from 4:30-6:00 p.m. for this can’t-miss virtual event.
Registration has closed for this event