Senate President Pro Tempore Malcolm A. Smith Recognizes Queens Principal as Constituent of the Month

(St. Albans, NY) – Senate President Malcolm A. Smith recognizes Avionne Gumbs, Founding Principal of the Young Women’s Leadership School of Queens, as his September Constituent of the Month.

“Through Ms. Gumbs’ direction and strong personal commitment to students, the school has thrived to become one of the finest institutions in Queens for young women,” said Senator Smith.

The school first opened in 2005. Since its inception the emphasis has been on developing self esteem, creativity, intellectual achievement, empowerment and leadership for girls in the 6th to11th grades. 

Gumbs’  was raised in Queens and is a product of the New York City public school system.  She received her BA in Psychology in 1994, MA in Secondary Education in 1998 and an MS in Supervision and Administration in 2001. 

After her first opportunity to work with young children, Gumbs’  discovered her passion and began teaching in 1995.  She believes that school is a child’s home away from home and that school should nurture the academic, social and developmental growth of all children. 

Gumbs’  is grateful for the support of her mother, siblings, and elementary school principal/mentor, the late Rose Silva-Lee.

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