Maricela Brea

Director, NYC Systems Change & Inclusive Opportunities Network at NYC Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities 

“I’m incredibly proud to stand alongside Special Olympics New York athletes, coaches and partners to continue growing a movement that changes lives for people with intellectual disabilities throughout New York City and across the state. The revolution is inclusion!”

Currently, Maricela serves as Director, NYC Systems Change & Inclusive Opportunities Network at NYC Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities. Her vast experience in workforce development, program management and education has allowed her to lead on the inclusion for people with disabilities in city government. She was recognized for her work and received the 2019 Women of New York Government Above and Beyond Award from City & State, the only awardee serving the disability community.

Prior to joining city government, Maricela spent 17 years working in the non-profit field and 7 years in higher education. She collaborating with providers and government agencies throughout New York City to impact the lives of culturally diverse populations, and serving low income youth to older adults.

Maricela was also the recipient of the 2016 Mo Fong Rigley Award from the New York State Education/ACCES-VR agency for  her demonstrated insight and creativity in developing a program model for young people with disabilities that would be implemented citywide and eventually statewide.

Maricela holds a diploma in Counseling and Personnel Services, and a Master of Science in Education from Fordham University, Graduate School of Education.