Hasani K. Council, President

Born and raised in Newark’s South Ward, Hasani Council is a lifelong public servant, and community advocate whose commitment to service began at an early age. A proud product of Newark Public Schools, he attended George Washington Carver Elementary School and graduated from University High School, where he emerged as a student leader and champion for social justice, equity, and educational opportunity. His passion for advocacy was rooted in a deep belief that every individual deserves fairness, representation, and access to quality education. Beyond the classroom, Hasani remained actively engaged in his community, playing and coaching Pop Warner football and Little League baseball while serving as a mentor and role model to young people throughout the South Ward.

Hasani continued his educational journey at Montclair State University, where he quickly distinguished himself as a dedicated student leader. Beginning on his first day on campus, he immersed himself in student organizations focused on strengthening campus life and creating positive change. He served as Vice President of his Hall Council, Executive Vice President of the Residence Hall Association, and a legislator in the Student Government Association, where he chaired one of three committees on which he served. His leadership culminated in his election to the Montclair State University Board of Trustees, where he served two years as a Student Trustee, working closely with university leadership to advance student interests. During his time at Montclair, he was inducted into the National Society of Leadership and Success and the Red Hawk Pride Society. He earned both a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and a Master of Arts in Law and Governance from the university.

Throughout his career, Hasani has remained dedicated to public service and government. He currently serves as Chief of Staff to South Ward Council Member Patrick Council and as Democratic District Leader for the 36th District in Newark’s South Ward. His previous roles include serving as a Legislative Aide to former South Ward Council Member John Sharpe James, a counselor with the United Community Corporation, and an intern with both the City of Newark and the Passaic County Democratic Committee.

A committed advocate for educational excellence, Hasani has been a member of the Newark Board of Education since 2020 and was first elected President of the Board in October 2023. In this leadership role, he chairs the Governance Committee and serves as an ex officio member of all other board committees. His previous board leadership includes chairing the Personnel and Finance Committees and serving as Vice Chair of the Operations Committee. Since joining the board, Hasani has earned every major New Jersey School Boards Association certification, including New Board Member Boardsmanship, Certified Board Member, Master Board Member, and Certified Board Leader. He also serves as Vice President of Legislation for the Essex County School Boards Association, where he advocates for policies that strengthen public education throughout New Jersey.

As Newark Board President, Hasani has helped guide the district through one of the most transformative periods in its history. During his tenure, the district has approved the opening of eleven new schools, expanded educational opportunities for students, renovated athletic stadiums and auditoriums, improved learning environments, and strengthened partnerships with organizations that deliver academic, social-emotional, and career-focused supports. He has championed governance best practices, professional development for board members, policy modernization, and the pursuit of excellence through initiatives such as the Carole E. Larsen Award. Above all, he remains a steadfast advocate for students, educators, and staff, believing that strong schools are built by empowering those who serve within them.

Hasani’s impact extends beyond Newark and New Jersey. He serves on the Board of Directors of the Council of Great City Schools, representing the nation’s largest urban school districts and helping advance policies that improve outcomes for students in urban communities, and he also serves on the board of directors for the Essex Regional Educational Services Commission. He works closely with district leadership to implement Student Outcomes Focused Governance, ensuring accountability and measurable progress for student achievement.

His commitment to community empowerment is equally evident through his work as Director of Education and Outreach for the Urban League of Young Professionals, where he leads initiatives focused on education, civic engagement, and economic opportunity.

Beyond his professional and civic leadership, Hasani is deeply committed to faith and fraternity. He is a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated, where he served as president of his undergraduate chapter and contributed to the fraternity’s Regional Political and Civic Engagement Committee. He also serves as a Deacon at St. John Baptist Church and remains actively involved in ministry and community service.

Throughout every stage of his life, Hasani Council has remained guided by a simple principle, service. Whether advocating for students, mentoring young people, strengthening public institutions, or creating opportunities for future generations, he continues to dedicate his leadership to building a more equitable, inclusive, and prosperous Newark for all.