Who we are

Valerie Payne is formerly the University Director of Continuing Education and Workforce Programs (CEWP) at the City University of New York (CUNY) where she oversaw the development and launch of programs across the university focused on improving students' career success.  These initiatives included career exploration, sector-specific skill development, career readiness, experiential learning opportunities, and greater access to paid internships and full-time employment.

Valerie also has extensive experience developing and overseeing workforce development programs serving low-income and unemployed adults in the not-for-profit world.  Prior to joining CUNY she worked with The Doe Fund, a transitional employment and housing program for homeless and formerly-incarcerated individuals, where she oversaw the establishment of educational services and occupational training in a variety of sectors, as well as increased the involvement of employer partners. She also managed supportive housing programs and previously led workforce development initiatives at a variety of community-based organizations including Breaking Ground and CAMBA.

She serves as Treasurer of the NYC Employment and Training Coalition and is a member of the Executive Committee of the Board of Directors.  Valerie is also a member of the Advisory Committee of the Workforce Professionals Training Institute’s The Hub.  Valerie has a M.S. in Urban Planning and Management from The New School and a BA in Political Science from Skidmore College.