Meet the Manhattan TCAC Team!
Daiana Iqbal, Director
Daiana is an accomplished manager and leader with over 20 years of experience successfully managing large-scale programs in education, health, emergency management and social services in both governmental and nonprofit settings. Daiana worked in city government for 16 years, at the Department of Health, where she led the development of the nascent 311 system. Daiana later transitioned to NYCPS and for the past eleven years has held many leadership positions positions at the central division of Family and Community Engagement and currently led 5 election cycles for the Community and Citywide Education Councils (formerly school boards). She holds both a Masters degree in Social Work and a Masters degree in Business Administration. She is an entrepreneur in spirit and is looking forward to providing services on behalf of all borough students with disabilities.
Audrey Mangan, Instructional Specialist
Audrey Mangan has enjoyed many years with the NYCDOE as a Teacher and School Leader in Districts 75, 4, 7, and 79 in the Bronx and Manhattan. She has devoted her career to supporting at risk youth in student achievement and preparation for life after High School. Ms. Mangan thoroughly supports and believes in Work-based Learning as the connecting factor between the vibrant economy of New York City and successful youth outcomes. She is thrilled to be the Manhattan TCAC Instructional Specialist, seeing student success grow every day.
Ngozi Hodder, Teacher Trainer
Ngozi has over seven years of experience as a special education teacher and has a passion for learning. As the niece and granddaughter of educators, she knew that education was her calling. Ngozi is a native New Yorker and a product of the New York City public school system. She graduated from SUNY Stony Brook with a Bachelor's in Health Science and has a Master's degree in Education from Long Island University - Brooklyn Campus. Ngozi is excited to be a part of the Manhattan TCAC team.
Diane Rivera Shelton, Teacher Trainer
drivera20@schools.nyc.gov
Diane Rivera Shelton has dedicated decades to supporting students with varying levels of academic and social capabilities in the New York City Department of Education. She has worked as a special education teacher, family and educator coach as well as an administrator citywide. Her depth of Special Education knowledge and hands-on experience, ranging from Early Childhood to High School Education, helps her intentionally address the needs of all learners. Her goal is to continue to support teachers and families and have a strong impact for each child's developmental and future success that she works with. She is delighted to continue the work associated with student success within the DOE Manhattan TCAC Team.
Denise Arieli-Barufka, Community Engagement Manager
Darieli-barufka3@schools.nyc.gov
Denise has worked with New York City schools for over two decades helping bring information, resources, and help to school communities using public health strategies. As a trained Social Worker, Denise has worked with over 100 community providers helping them establish partnerships with schools and helping schools create pathways to community services. She has devoted her career to public service and believes that education is a great leveler in providing access and opportunity for all. She is thrilled to join the Manhattan TCAC as the Community Engagement Manager.
Andrew McCullough, Work-Based Learning Coordinator
AMcCullough3@schools.nyc.gov
I am excited to be here in the role of Work -based Learning Coordinator! I attended college at Arizona State University, have been supporting students in NYC Schools in many roles, in addition to brining WBLE skills from Job Corps. I love helping students and pointing them in their right path.
Mallory Downar, Office Manager
Mallory Downar has always been passionate about enriching the quality of life for those struggling with mental health, educational inequality, hunger and homelessness. She has worked closely with various organizations to provide necessary resources in her community in hopes of bringing comfort to those in need. She is thrilled to have pivoted her advocacy work into a rewarding career at the Manhattan Transition and College Access Center. As Office Manager, Mallory is dedicated to providing an environment for both students and families to feel supported and valued while we work together through life’s changes.
Fall 2022 TCAC One Pager.pdf