About GLC
Gassaway’s Leadership Collective LLC was established to strengthen leadership in schools and organizations that serve children and communities. Founded by Dr. Bernard Gassaway, a longtime educator, former principal, and leadership coach, the Collective grew out of a deep belief that strong, principled leadership can transform schools and change the life trajectory of young people. After decades of experience in urban education, Dr. Gassaway recognized that many leaders are placed in complex environments without the practical guidance, leadership frameworks, and strategic support necessary to lead effectively. The Collective was created to fill that gap by equipping leaders with practical tools, research-informed strategies, and the moral courage needed to advocate for children and build thriving schools.
A key component of the Collective’s work is the design of high-quality online asynchronous professional learning courses that can be customized for schools, districts, and educational organizations. These flexible learning experiences allow educators and leaders to engage in meaningful professional development on their own schedules while still participating in structured, high-impact training aligned with district goals. Grounded in Dr. Gassaway’s philosophy of Chief Child Advocate Leadership, Gassaway’s Leadership Collective helps leaders strengthen school culture, build social capital with communities, and make decisions that place the well-being of children at the center of every policy and practice.
Meet Our Founder
Dr. Bernard Gassaway
Nationally Recognized Educator | Author | Advocate for Educational Equity
Dr. Bernard Gassaway is a nationally recognized educator, author, and advocate for children whose distinguished career reflects more than three decades of leadership in urban public education. Born in Macon, Georgia, and raised in New York City, Dr. Gassaway has devoted his life to advancing educational equity, developing effective school leaders, and ensuring that all children have access to high-quality learning opportunities.
He began his career as a classroom teacher in Queens, New York, and later joined Boys and Girls High School, where he taught English and computer literacy. His exceptional leadership led to a series of pioneering appointments, including his distinction as the first African American Assistant Principal of Pupil Personnel Services at Far Rockaway High School and the first African American principal of Beach Channel High School.
Throughout his career, Dr. Gassaway has been recognized for his visionary leadership and commitment to student achievement. He is the recipient of the New York State Title I Distinguished Educator Award and was honored as Queens Educator of the Year by both the Queens Borough President’s African American Advisory Council and Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.
As Senior Superintendent for Alternative Schools and Programs in New York City, Dr. Gassaway oversaw initiatives that transformed educational outcomes for thousands of at-risk students. A Revson Fellow at Columbia University, he has consistently championed educational reform grounded in integrity, courage, and service to children.
Dr. Gassaway earned his Doctorate in Education Leadership from Columbia University’s Teachers College. The author of five books, including Reflections of an Urban High School Principal and The Edge of Leadership: Fight for Children No Matter the Cost, he continues to inspire educators and leaders to act with purpose, equity, and conviction.