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Anael “Dr. A” Alston is a nationally recognized education leader and speaker who knows how to move people from inspiration to action. With over 25 years of proven success, he has transformed classrooms, districts, and statewide systems—always with one goal: helping students and staff reach their highest potential.
From his beginnings as a teacher in New York City to leading multi-million-dollar pre-K through graduate school initiatives across New York State, Dr. A has built a reputation for raising achievement, building capacity, and energizing teams. Audiences consistently describe his keynotes and trainings as engaging, practical, and unforgettable.
If you’re looking for a respected leader who combines powerful storytelling, research-driven strategies, and a track record of real results, Dr. A will deliver the message your educators, students, and community leaders need right now.
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
National Education Leader | Award-Winning Superintendent | Speaker & Leadership Coach
Dr. Anael “Dr. A” Alston is a nationally recognized voice in education and leadership who turns belief into measurable results. Raised in Bedford-Stuyvesant, Brooklyn, he learned early that brilliance is born everywhere—what matters is the system’s ability to recognize and nurture it. From the boxing ring at Madison Square Garden, where he became a Golden Gloves Champion, to the halls of Columbia University, where he earned his doctorate, Dr. A has built a career defined by discipline, vision, and impact.
For more than 30 years, he has inspired educators, executives, and students to lead with purpose, build cultures of belonging, and transform potential into performance. Whether addressing 6,000 people at Radio City Music Hall or coaching district leaders one-on-one, Dr. A brings the rare mix of authenticity, evidence-based practice, and contagious energy that drives sustained change.
Career Highlights and Accomplishments
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Assistant Commissioner, New York State Education Department – Leads a $200 million statewide portfolio spanning Pre-K through graduate school, including My Brother’s Keeper (MBK), 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 equity and 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 equity, leadership, and student success.
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Proven Speaker and Coach – Delivered keynotes across the U.S. and internationally, including Radio City Music Hall and major education conferences; coaches superintendents, principals, and executives 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.
Dr. A is dedicated to unlocking brilliance and building systems where every student and educator can thrive.
