Shelton Haynes is Building a Better Future for Roosevelt Island

Haynes is the CEO and president of the Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (RIOC). He works closely with the Board of Directors and ensures the implementation of the corporation’s strategic goals and objectives. As the CEO, he also undertakes administrative and executive duties. Formerly, Haynes was serving as the COO. In this role, he oversaw daily operations and managed administrative departments. Under his leadership, the departments performed very well.

Shelton Haynes studied at the prestigious Hampton University, where he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in sociology. When he became interim CEO of the Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation in 2020, one of his goals was to develop trust within the organization and instill confidence in the community. In a letter to the employees, he noted the need for them to be more action-oriented. Haynes has focused on improving the island’s aesthetic appeal. The FDR Hope Memorial is an indication of Haynes’ commitment to supporting art as well as recognizing people with disabilities.

Managing the operations of an island of 12,000 people is a monumental task. Thankfully, Shelton Haynes works with a dedicated and supportive team to help him deliver essential services to the people of Roosevelt Island. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Haynes took measures to mitigate the spread by establishing a rapid testing site.

Under the leadership of Shelton Haynes, RIOC’s capital program has grown from $4.5 million to over $19.6 million per year. One of the projects that they have been working on is the Blackwell House. The team allocated $2.9 million to renovate and upgrade the ancient building. Renovating the Roosevelt Island Youth Center has been another major project that Haynes has taken. The project cost about $2.1 million, and the aim was to transform it into a youth development center where young people can learn and empower themselves.

Roosevelt Island has also become a business hub. Haynes has noted the need for tourists as the region is still recovering from the economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. One of the biggest challenges is attracting local tourists. Ironically, many people who live in New York City have never visited the beautiful Roosevelt Island. Haynes and his team are working hard to educate people about this NYC gem.

Haynes is the CEO and president of the Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (RIOC). He works closely with the Board of Directors and ensures the implementation of the corporation’s strategic goals and objectives. As the CEO, he also undertakes administrative and executive duties. Formerly, Haynes was serving as the COO. In this role, he oversaw daily…