Meet the New President and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Rochester: Dr. Ghislaine Radegonde-Eison

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Rochester has named Dr. Ghislaine Radegonde-Eison as its new president and chief executive officer. Radegonde-Eison brings nearly 25 years of experience in higher education, leadership and community engagement to the role.

Dr. Ghislaine Radegonde-Eison

“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Radegonde-Eison to lead our organization into its next chapter,” said Chris Huels, chair of the board of directors. “Her extensive background in mentorship, dedication to youth empowerment, and commitment to fostering inclusive communities make her the perfect leader to advance our mission of building transformative relationships that help young people reach their full potential.”

Radegonde-Eison most recently served as director of alumni relations and constituent engagement at the University of Rochester. During her tenure, she helped develop affinity networks and led engagement efforts focused on identity-based and historically underrepresented communities, including Black alumni, first-generation students, LGBTQ+ individuals and Latin/Hispanic alumni.

She also played a key role in establishing the university’s Department of Black Studies and held a teaching appointment in the Department of Modern Languages and Cultures, where she mentored many students.

In addition, Radegonde-Eison currently serves as chair of the board of trustees for the Young Women’s College Preparatory Charter School. Under her leadership, the school received the 2024 Elevating Women Award from the Rochester Business Journal for its efforts to support and empower women in New York.

“I am honored to join Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Rochester and continue the vital work of supporting youth through meaningful mentoring relationships,” Radegonde-Eison said. “As a Big Sister myself, I have witnessed firsthand how mentorship transforms lives. I strongly believe in Kofi Annan’s words: ‘Knowledge is power. Knowledge shared is power multiplied. Mentoring is a way to share that knowledge.’”

In her new role, she plans to focus on empowering individuals, fostering inclusivity and strengthening connections across Greater Rochester’s diverse communities. She is committed to expanding the organization’s reach, increasing its volunteer base and deepening its impact on youth and families.

Radegonde-Eison steps into the position ahead of the organization’s Annual Gala on April 11, 2025. The event, the agency’s largest fundraiser of the year, will be held at Cobblestone Creek Country Club and will feature a keynote address by legendary Syracuse University basketball coach Jim Boeheim.

“We invite the Greater Rochester community to join us for an inspiring evening that directly supports the life-changing mentoring relationships we provide for local youth,” said Gala Chair Paul Guglielmo. “We are excited to introduce Dr. Radegonde-Eison to our partners, stakeholders and volunteers at this special event.”

The gala will include dinner, auctions, testimonials from program participants and a presentation by Boeheim. Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available online.

For more information about Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Rochester, the upcoming gala or ways to get involved, visit BeABig.org.