06/05/2026
We are pleased to introduce our newest member to the team, Lillian Evelyn Garland!
In 1983, Lillian graduated from Mercy High School, enrolled at Hudson Valley Community College, majored in Criminal Justice, and graduated with an associate's degree. Lillian is currently attending Empire State College, concentrating on Political Science.
For more than a decade, Lillian worked with the Brighter Choice Foundation, where she defeated the odds and successfully opened 13 Charter Schools, creating employment opportunities for minorities in the Capital District Region.
In 2000, Lillian became a Trustee for Green Tech Charter High School for Boys and Albany Leadership High School for Girls. Serving as a Community Liaison, Lillian initiated a large grassroots charter school movement to give parents a say in the quality of education. Lillian also started a Grandmas for Charter School movement and led it to become the strongest advocate for Charter Schools in the region.
From 2012 to 2016, Lillian served as Deputy Ward Leader for the 5th Ward in the City of Albany, where she started the My Voice My Vote Campaign and registered hundreds of voters in the 5th Ward. Lillian has worked with elected officials to increase awareness of the power of voting and the importance of voting for disadvantaged communities.
For her work, Lillian has received Awards from Albany City Schools, Women’s Empire Federation, and the Common Council Black History Celebration.
Their dedication and expertise will be a valuable addition as we continue serving our community. Welcome aboard!