Nadia Lopez is pioneering a path of inspired leadership to show the world how under-privileged communities can make beat the odds and create positive institutions that have a global impact. As the founding Principal of Mott Hall Bridges Academy, a New York City Public School, Nadia became internationally known after the popular blog, Humans of New York (HONY), featured one of her students. This student told HONY founder, Brandon Stanton, that the greatest influence on his life was his Principal, Nadia. Nadia’s story became a viral sensation as millions of people around the world became impressed with the positive learning environment, high expectations, and growing success rate at a school right in the middle of one of the most under-served communities in America. Two days later Stanton launched a fundraiser that raised $1.4 million to take Nadia’s students on college trips that include Harvard University, Summer STEAM programs, and college scholarships. The success story was shared through numerous media outlets and resulted in Nadia guest appearing on the Ellen Show, visiting President Barack Obama at the Whitehouse, and receiving the Medal of Distinction from Barnard College. In addition, Nadia was honored alongside First Lady Michelle Obama with the Change Agent Award at the Black Girls Rock show hosted on BET Networks.

Nadia’s passion, belief in children, and strong conviction has been unwavering in her belief that her community needs strong leadership. Despite the adversities she faced in opening Mott Hall Bridges Academy in 2010, Nadia is encouraged and inspired to see children overcome the “beautiful challenges” of Brownsville, and ensuring that they are admitted into some of the most competitive high schools in New York City. Understanding the power of programming, Nadia continues to impact the lives of children through her “She Is Me” and “I Matter” initiatives, which have served thousands of youth throughout Central Brooklyn by providing workshops, forums, and mentoring. Nadia continues to influence and inspire the world through her company The Lopez Effect, which offers a blueprint for personal and organizational success.