UNIONDALE, NY / ACCESS Newswire / August 13, 2025 / Marquis Who's Who honors Francesca Peña for excellence in education. Ms. Peña is a dedicated educator, leader and mentor. With a career spanning three decades, she has impacted thousands of students, families and colleagues throughout New York City and the Dominican Republic.

Early Career in Mathematics Education

Ms. Peña began her career in 1992 as a mathematics teacher at Washington Irving High School. In this role, she effectively facilitated student growth in the classroom. This impact led to greater responsibilities. In 1998, her alma mater, George Washington High School, invited her to help restructure the institution. There, she joined the leadership team of the newly created International Business and Finance High School.

Under her leadership, the school became known as "The Jewel in the Heights." This was one of the most meaningful chapters in her life, enabling her to expand opportunities for the underprivileged in such a way that the school earned a reputation for strong attendance, internship opportunities and academic excellence. Ms. Peña helped connect students with mentors and paid internships, including partnerships with the group Dominicans on Wall Street. Additionally, she demonstrated an ability to create a respectful, well-organized learning environment. This characteristic stood out during an extensive audit led by the district superintendent and state officials.

A Superintendent Who Inspired Community Action

Following the successful graduation of the International Business and Finance High School's first class, Ms. Peña was appointed district superintendent of District Six in 2004. When the New York City Department of Education introduced a new structure in 2007, she applied for the superintendent of high schools' role and was selected for the position on behalf of the Borough of Queens, encompassing over 136 schools.

Leadership Role in School Projects

Ms. Peña left the Department of Education in 2011 and, from 2011 to 2015, served as site supervisor for a graduate program at the Universidad National Pedro Henriquez - New York Campus. In 2016, she became the director of secondary school at St Joseph's School in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. In this role, she remains involved in academic planning and student engagement, taking the school to new heights in terms of the students' success. In 2024, she changed her position, taking on the role of project director. Ms. Peña's responsibilities in this capacity include organizing graduation ceremonies, guiding student community service activities and supporting the beloved Candlelight Ceremony, which celebrates the transition from junior to senior year, and the National Honor Society induction ceremony.

Ms. Peña has also led student travel for academic competitions. Additionally, she continues to build connections with students, parents and staff. Colleagues appreciate the care she brings to every detail, especially during major school events.

Academic Achievements and Professional Impact

Ms. Peña holds a master's degree in school supervision and administration from Baruch College, a master's degree in mathematics teacher education from the City College of New York and a bachelor's degree in computer engineering from the same institution. Ms. Peña's educational background and practical leadership enable her to thrive in complex academic environments.

One of the most meaningful chapters in her career was becoming principal of the International Business and Finance High School because she was able to help so many underprivileged students, who have grown into successful careers and families of their own. During that time, Ms. Peña watched the first graduating class cross the stage. Many students from that time still contact her with words of thanks. They often call her "mom" for the role she played in their lives.

Civic Contributions and Family Life

Beyond the classroom, Ms. Peña was elected as the ninth president of the board of directors of the Dominican American National Round Table in 2013, a role that reflects her dedication to community service and advocacy.

Ms. Peña divides her time between the U.S. and the Dominican Republic. Her daughter, Marlene, works in hospital administration and has two daughters, Luna and Sol. Meanwhile, her son, Ramon, continues the family's tradition in education.

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SOURCE: Marquis Who's Who