LaToya Benjamin is an International Public Speaker, Entrepreneur, and Political Scientist. She currently serves as the Vice President to the Planning and the Black Community Division for the American Planning Association, where she provides strategic insights, innovation, and practical approaches to the field of Economic Development.

From 2016 to 2020, Ms. Benjamin served as the Director of Economic Development within the State Legislature, where she managed the planning and implementation of one of their largest infrastructure projects—like the Redevelopment of JFK, and other national projects focused on driving equity through policy and development.

Prior to this role, Ms. Benjamin worked for the Office of Public Engagement at the Brooklyn District Attorney’s Office, where she launched innovative programs that addressed reform and reentry under the leadership of the late, great Kenneth Thompson.

We need to have the conversation about banking, not only for the Black community, but society as a whole to educate and understand the role of banks as institutions.

With over 10 years of experience within the public and private sector, her track record to plan and implement innovative agendas has proven to build trust among national and global influencers.

Ms. Benjamin is passionate about driving change through innovation, leadership development, and public policy.

A graduate of New York City public schools, Ms. Benjamin attended Queensborough Community College, where she received an associate’s degree in Liberal Arts and Science; John Jay College of Criminal Justice, where she received a bachelor’s degree in Public Administration; and Brooklyn College, where she received a master’s degree in Urban Policy and Administration.