gwen

clayton-fernandes

About me

I'm a native of Culver City, California, and a proud product ​of the public school system. After graduating from USC, I ​spent years in corporate communications and events. ​Work took me to New York City, where I met my husband, ​Alvin. When we decided to start a family, we chose New ​Rochelle for its diverse and academically strong schools.

I've always been passionate about working with children, ​which is why I've spent the last 15 years working and ​volunteering at the Boys and Girls Club of New Rochelle. I ​also support the community through the Junior League ​and fundraising for Childshare. In 2010, my husband and I ​opened our restaurant, Alvin & Friends, as a way to give ​back to our neighborhood.

I am deeply committed to the New Rochelle community ​and live by the wisdom of Frederick Douglass: “It’s easier to ​build strong children than to repair broken men.”

platform

Community: As a strong advocate for community engagement, I ​believe that the more our small businesses, non-profits, and ​residents are involved in supporting the success of our public ​schools, the greater the benefits for everyone.

Inclusion: I believe in learning environments where every student ​has a voice and feels valued, regardless of background or ability. All ​students should be prepared to thrive in our multicultural society.

Empowerment: I believe that education is the ultimate equalizer, ​and I'm committed to empowering an environment where the ​pathway to excellence starts with families and education.