Nathaalie N. Maxwell
Assistant Director Centralized Services New York State Comptroller’s Office Albany, N.Y. Age: 29
Nathaalie N. Maxwell is the first woman, first African-American and youngest person to be director of Budget and Research for Broome County Government in New York, a position she held before just recently becoming assistant director, Centralized Services, in New York State’s Comptroller’s Office. At 29, the native of Guyana managed Broome County’s combined $450 million operating, capital and grant budgets.
Maxwell has a bachelor’s degree in English and a master’s in public administration from Binghamton University. “Continuous education, networking and taking advantage of any opportunities presented” define her career strategy. “I’m always considering my next strategic move. Although I am happy with what I have been able to accomplish, I believe that I will always want to better myself in some capacity,” she says. By age 50, she expects to either own her own company or head a Fortune 500 company.
Maxwell’s loss of a brother to street violence has moved her to work with the youth of her community. The eldest of seven children, she founded the Unexpected Step Team at the Saratoga Boys and Girls Club to promote pride, discipline, dedication and teamwork among underprivileged youth. She also created an Introduction to the Arts program for minorities and young professionals in Binghamton.
Many contributed to her achievements, she says. “I’ve had many different mentors over the course of my life. I believe that every person we know mentors us in some form or fashion. We should learn from both the positive and negative characteristics of everyone in our lives.”
Quote: "Man plans, God laughs."
Fun Facts
Favorite book/author: Rich Dad, Poor Dad by Robert T. Kiyosaki
What actress should play you in a movie: Jada Pinkett Smith
What artist would you go on tour with: Jill Scott
First job: High school locker-room attendant
Last movie: Fast & Furious
Favorite comedian: Jim Carrey
Favorite charity: Binghamton Boys and Girls Club
