Reclaiming Brilliance in
Every School Community
Dr. A works with school systems and college groups to build cultures where brilliance is expected, cultivated, and achieved. He partners with leadership teams to affirm and improve student self-images, lift instructional practices, and create environments where every young person’s potential is realized. His leadership experience at the school, district, and state levels ensures strategies that are both inspiring and practical.
Results school communities typically see:
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Improved college retention and persistence
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Higher graduation rates
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Stronger student self-image and identity development
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Increased engagement in extracurricular and leadership activities
PREVIOUS PARTNERS
THESE ARE JUST A FEW OF THE ORGANIZATIONS THAT DR. A HAS WORKED WITH
Watch Dr. A in ACTION!
Dr. Anael “Dr. A” Alston is a nationally recognized education leader, speaker, and movement-builder who helps schools and colleges build cultures where brilliance is expected, cultivated, and achieved. Raised in Bedford-Stuyvesant, Brooklyn, he learned early that potential is universal—but systems must be designed to recognize and nurture it. From becoming a Golden Gloves Boxing Champion at Madison Square Garden to earning his doctorate from Columbia University, Dr. A’s journey reflects the discipline, purpose, and possibility he works to unlock in others.
With over 25 years of leadership experience—from teacher and principal to superintendent and statewide executive—Dr. A has transformed classrooms, districts, and higher education systems by strengthening belonging, elevating identity, and improving academic outcomes. Whether speaking to 6,000 people at Radio City Music Hall or coaching leadership teams one-on-one, he brings a rare combination of authentic storytelling, research-based strategy, and energizing presence that moves people from inspiration to sustained action.
Nationally recognized education leader who turns belief into measurable achievement and thriving school culture.
Why Dr. A?...
Proven Leadership. National Impact. Lasting Change.
Education
Ed.D. Curriculum & Teaching, Teachers College, Columbia University
M.A. Gifted Education, Teachers College, Columbia University
M.S.Ed. Educational Administration, College of New Rochelle
B.A. Sociology (English Minor), Hofstra University
Career Highlights and Accomplishments
Proven Leadership & Impact
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Assistant Commissioner, New York State Education Department – Oversees a $200 million statewide portfolio serving learners from Pre-K through graduate school, including New York’s My Brother’s Keeper initiative, recognized by President Barack Obama for its transformational impact.
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Superintendent of Schools, Hamilton Central School District (NY) – Achieved a 100% graduation rate, demonstrating that belief in students and the relentless pursuit of excellence can coexist.
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Principal, Long Island, NY – Named New York State Principal of the Year and led his school to earn the National Association of Secondary School Principals Breakthrough School Award.
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Award-Winning Educator and Thought Leader – Featured in Education Week, ASCD, Newsday, and national podcasts as a leading voice on school reform, college retention, leadership, and student success.
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Speaker and Executive Coach – Delivered keynotes across the U.S. and internationally, including Radio City Music Hall and major education conferences; coaches superintendents, principals, and college leaders to achieve peak performance.
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Author and Architect of the “Born Brilliant” Framework – A movement dedicated to unlocking the brilliance in every student through belief, systems, and action.
How Dr. A Transforms Schools & Colleges
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Strengthens school and campus cultures of belonging
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Raises academic achievement and student engagement
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Develops confident, purpose-driven leaders and learners
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Turns belief into measurable, sustainable outcomes at scale
