• April 3, 2026
Labor Akeem Jamal

President & CEO Shelton J. Haynes Announces New Appointment

Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation, a nonprofit organization that oversees the day-to-day operations of Roosevelt Island in the East River between Manhattan, Queens, and Jersey City, is pleased to announce that Akeem Jamal has been appointed to the position of Assistant Vice President of Communications & Public Affairs. Akeem Jamal brings a wealth of experience in public relations and government affairs from his positions at Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Railroad Company (SWBR). In his last role, he was the director of external affairs. In addition to his experience as an executive and communication strategist, Mr. Jamal is a graduate of the University of Scranton with a degree in political science and government. He holds a master’s degree in public administration from the Maxwell School at Syracuse University.

“I am thrilled to have Akeem on board as our new assistant vice president in charge of Communications & Public Affairs,” said Shelton J. Haynes, President & CEO of Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation. “His experience at SWBR and expertise in public policy issues and government affairs will be invaluable as we plan our projects.” Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation’s communications & public affairs department is responsible for external communications, community outreach, media relations, and government relations. Akeem has proven invaluable to the Roosevelt Island Operating Corporations team and will be instrumental in continuing our work to expand, modernize, and enhance Roosevelt Island. Mr. Jamal’s community involvement includes membership on the board of directors of St. James A&M Church, the board of directors for the National Day of Prayer Foundation, and the past president of Friends of Beautiful Riverhead. He is also a member-at-large on the executive committee for the United States Conference of Mayors. Mr. Jamal brings years of government experience to Roosevelt Island Operating Corporaton, where he will be a key asset as we plan and implement our next development phase as a multi-use community. Mr. Jamal will work closely with the team on communications, community outreach, public policy, and government relations. “Roosevelt Island is a wonderfully unique place to live and work,” said Akeem. “I look forward to building upon our past successes to expand this unique community. I will also work closely with our residents and stakeholders as we embark on new projects across the island.