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Kenneth J. Knuckles, Esq., Vice Chairman
 Kenneth J. Knuckles became CEO and President of the Upper Manhattan Empowerment Zone (UMEZ) on January 27, 2003, after an extensive executive search. He previously served on the UMEZ Board of Directors from September 2001, until his appointment as President. Mr. Knuckles is also a member of The New York City Planning Commission, and in February 2002, was appointed Vice Chair by Mayor Michael Bloomberg.
From July 1996 through January 15, 2003, Mr. Knuckles served as Vice President, Support Services at Columbia University, where he was the University’s Chief Procurement Officer, responsible for providing central administrative and support services to the faculty and administration. From 1994 through 1995, Mr. Knuckles served as Senior Vice President for Economic Development at the South Bronx Overall Economic Development Corporation (SOBRO); from 1990 through 1993, he was Commissioner, New York City Department of General Services during the David N. Dinkins administration. Prior thereto, from 1987 until 1990, Mr. Knuckles served as Deputy Bronx Borough President. During the Koch administration, Mr. Knuckles also served as an Assistant Housing Commissioner, as well as legal counsel to several city agencies.
He holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Architecture, from the University of Michigan, a Juris Doctorate from the Howard University School of Law, and he is a member of the New York State Bar.
Under his leadership, investment strategy in the Upper Manhattan Empowerment Zone is focused upon: a) further development of anchor commercial / retail projects; b) industry cluster development emphasizing media, entertainment, fashion, and technology; c) support of Upper Manhattan’s cultural infrastructure in the form of primary and midsize cultural organizations; d) small business development through lending and technical assistance, and e) workforce development.
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