BRONX DISTRICT ATTORNEY’S DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY AFFAIRS HONORED AT CITY HALL CEREMONY AS OUTSTANDING ROLE MODEL FOR WOMEN IN CITY GOVERNMENT

Bronx District Attorney Robert T. Johnson joined the Women’s Advisors of New York City this week in honoring his Director of Community Affairs, Lisa Payne-Wansley, as Outstanding Role Model for Women in City Government. Ms. Payne-Wansley received the award at a ceremony at City Hall.

Mr. Johnson praised Payne-Wansley as "a valued member of my staff who is particularly well suited to be a role model. She is strong yet caring and fair as well as honest and direct. Mrs. Wansley often serves as a bridge between legal and support staff in our office. Beyond that, she is a role model for many people on our staff, particularly other women."

As Director of Community Affairs, Payne-Wansley, a Bronx native who has spent most of her professional life in the Bronx, has expanded the role of the Bronx District Attorney’s Office in crime prevention and educational programs for children and youth. She has introduced a number of mentoring programs to the Office and also participates as a mentor. During Ms. Payne-Wansley’s tenure, staff involvement in these programs has increased dramatically. She also serves on numerous committees in the Office, including those which oversee annual Staff Recognition and Volunteer Appreciation Days. Despite her busy schedule Ms. Payne-Wansley also manages to teach a course in communications at a local college.