The New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) consists of 334 public housing developments that provide over 400,000 New Yorkers with homes. Based on those robust numbers, the city's various housing developments are bound to produce a number of success stories. By success stories, we mean people who have excelled far beyond their humble beginnings, leaving a lasting impact on the city and, in some cases, the world.
While NYCHA has produced several prosperous and well-known entertainers, its stories of triumph extend beyond the realm of entertainment, as well. Goldman Sachs CEO Lloyd Blankfein, former New York City Congressman Gary Ackerman, and Xerox CEO Ursula Burns—the first black woman to be named CEO of a Fortune 500 company—are all products of New York City public housing.
New York City housing projects have historically been a breeding ground for many ranks of intelligent, talented people, an inspiring fact that proves that personal possibilities are not rooted in your beginnings, but based on one's drive to succeed. These notable former residents of NYC housing projects prove that impetus can truly take you anywhere you'd like to go.
Written by Julian Kimble (@JRK316)