Yianice Hernandez is the Deputy Managing Director at the Freedom Together Foundation, which supports people who have been denied power to build it, so they can change unjust systems and create a more democratic, inclusive, and sustainable society. With over twenty years of experience in social justice philanthropy, community development, and systems change, she is dedicated to advancing equity at the intersection of climate justice, public health, and community-led solutions. Previously, Yianice served as a Senior Program Officer for the Environment Program at The JPB Foundation, where she worked to promote a just and equitable clean energy future.
Her career includes leadership roles within New York City government. As Director of Capital Planning for the NYC Housing Authority, she managed capital investments to provide safe, sustainable housing. Later, as Director of Healthy Living by Design at the NYC Department of Health, she led citywide initiatives to create built environments that support the well-being of individuals, families, and neighborhoods. Additionally, Yianice spent a decade at Enterprise Community Partners, where she directed national efforts to advance green affordable housing practices and research. She holds a bachelor’s degree in sociology from Pace University and a master’s degree in nonprofit administration from the University of Notre Dame.