Adams Brings Global Leadership and a Lifelong Commitment to Youth Empowerment to the Role
NYC Outward Bound Schools welcomed Laurel (Laurie) Adams as the organization’s new CEO this week. Adams succeeds Vanessa Rodriguez and brings to the role over two decades of international leadership in education, youth development, and social justice.
“We are thrilled to welcome Laurie to our community,” said Gifford Miller, Chair of the NYC Outward Bound Schools Board of Directors. “Her commitment to equity and her impressive track record as a nonprofit executive are deeply aligned with our mission to help all students realize their full potential. Laurie’s appointment marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for our organization.”
Adams’s connection to Outward Bound is personal. Her own transformative experience on an Outward Bound course helped shape a lifelong commitment to education and equity—values that now guide her leadership at NYC Outward Bound Schools.
“I am honored to be joining NYC Outward Bound Schools,” said Adams. “This organization has a powerful legacy that I deeply respect and believe in. I look forward to working with the team, our partners, and the communities we serve to help even more young people discover their strength, purpose, and potential.”
Hear from Laurie Adams During Her First Week at Sharpe Reservation:
About Laurie
Adams joins NYC Outward Bound Schools from Women for Women International, where she served as CEO for nine years. Under her leadership, the organization expanded from 8 to 17 countries, nearly doubled its revenue, and deepened its commitment to board and staff diversity. Women for Women’s holistic approach to empowerment mirrors the mission of NYC Outward Bound Schools: to equip all students with the knowledge and skills to lead with courage, compassion, and conviction.
Earlier in her career, Laurie worked across the UK, South Africa, Kenya, and Senegal with both national and international NGOs on initiatives ranging from girls’ education and grant management to board development and impact evaluation. She began her professional journey in the classroom, teaching in high school, ESL, and community college settings.
She holds a Master’s in Public Policy and undergraduate degrees in Government and Education.
With Laurie Adams at the helm, NYC Outward Bound Schools is poised to deepen its impact and chart an ambitious path forward in service of New York City’s students.