News & Announcements

Northside Center’s Board Selects Vikki Pryor as New President & CEO​

Northside Center for Child Development, based in Harlem and a leader in behavioral health and education services for nearly 80 years, has announced the retirement of its Hilde L. Mosse President and CEO, Thelma Dye, Ph.D., after 37 years of remarkable service. “We thank Dr. Dye for her tremendous contributions and wish her well,” says Michael Goldstein, Chairman of Northside’s Board of Directors. “We are thrilled to share that Vikki Pryor is joining as President and CEO effective July 1. Vikki is deeply committed to children, families, and social justice, and brings decades of nonprofit and business leadership experience to Northside. With her expertise, and track record of results, we are confident that Vikki will successfully leverage Northside’s legacy to sustainably achieve our mission for children and families.”

Before joining Northside, Pryor served as President and CEO of Getting Out Staying Out (GOSO), an East Harlem-based youth development organization focused on education, employment, and emotional well-being. Under her guidance, GOSO expanded its reach, implemented innovative programs, and achieved impactful outcomes for the youth it serves. Pryor is a lawyer, MBA, CPA, and educator. To read more about her background, click here.

“The chance to join Northside’s team on a shared journey is exciting but humbling. It is the pursuit of a mission that is still relevant today. The impact on children and families remains nothing short of transformational,” says Vikki Pryor.

Northside serves over 4,000 children annually through high-quality, outcomes-driven behavioral health, early childhood, and enrichment services. The organization provides children and their families the support they need to overcome adversity, thrive, and pursue their dreams.

About Northside
Northside has been a staple of the Harlem community since its founding in 1946 and a pioneer at the intersection of education and behavioral health for Black and Latino children. Several of its programs were the first in Harlem and established the standard of care for many social service agencies. Northside’s founders, Doctors Kenneth and Mamie Clark, were psychologists whose breakthrough Black/White Doll Study was used as evidence in Brown v. Board of Education, which declared public school segregation unconstitutional. The philosophy behind this landmark decision, now on its 70th anniversary, continues to inspire Northside to create and drive innovative programs that focus on the strengths of families and the importance of children’s self-esteem.

Vikki L. Pryor

THE HILDE L. MOSSE PRESIDENT & CEO NORTHSIDE CENTER FOR CHILD DEVELOPMENT
THE HILDE L. MOSSE PRESIDENT & CEO NORTHSIDE CENTER FOR CHILD DEVELOPMENT

Honoring Juneteenth!

We’re grateful for the communities we serve.

Today, we celebrate freedom and remember the pivotal ways African Americans have shaped our country through resilience, intelligence, and initiative.

We are remembering our founders, especially – Drs. Mamie and Kenneth Clark. This year marks the 70th anniversary of Brown v. Board of Education, which legally ended segregation in public schools. Our founders’ groundbreaking Black/White Doll Test was the first-ever social science research to be submitted as hard evidence in the Supreme Court’s history, and was critical to the ruling in this landmark case. The Clarks thought differently. They opened doors. They helped change America.

As an organization, we strive to live up to their example. We are driven by our shared humanity and focus on the strength of families and the importance of children’s self-esteem. Thank you for being a meaningful part of our journey.

A Grateful Farewell and Exciting New Beginnings

Dear Friends and Supporters,

With heartfelt gratitude, I am informing you that I will retire as President and CEO of Northside Center
effective June 30, 2024, the end of our fiscal year. After a remarkable 37-year journey dedicated to advancing
our mission and the legacy of our founders, Drs. Mamie Phipps Clark and Kenneth B. Clark, I am filled with
appreciation for the opportunity to make a difference in serving children, families, and the greater NYC
community. From my early days serving as a Chief Psychologist and Clinic Director, and eventually assuming
the position of Executive Director, then President and CEO, I have been privileged to put into action the values
instilled in me early on in my life. This has been fortified by the work and legacy of not only Drs. Mamie and
Kenneth Clark, but Kate Clark Harris who hired me so many years ago.

Thank you for your support over the years and thank you in advance for your continuing support in the years
that lie ahead. The importance of our work has never been greater. Our shared belief in community service, the
importance of relationships, and commitment to collective efforts yielding greater impact are the principles that
have guided the continued work of Northside in serving the children and families of Harlem and beyond. Your
commitment to Northside’s mission has made an immeasurable difference.

Of importance now is what lies ahead. We are thrilled to formally introduce Vikki Pryor, selected by our Board
of Directors, who will step into the role of President-elect effective June 1, 2024, and President and CEO
effective July 1, 2024. Over the next month, Vikki and I are working together to implement a seamless
transition to build upon our foundation and continue our strategic vision. We will work closely with
Northside’s leadership team to ensure uninterrupted support and service to our children, families, and
community. We will also reach out to you in the days ahead. Should you have any questions in the meantime,
do not hesitate to contact me directly.

Vikki brings a wealth of experience and passion to our mission. Before joining Northside, Vikki served as
President and CEO of an East Harlem-based youth development organization focused on education,
employment, and emotional well-being. Under her guidance, the organization expanded its reach, implemented
innovative programs, and achieved impactful outcomes for the youth it serves. An advocate for social justice,
equity, and community empowerment, Vikki is also a lawyer, MBA, CPA, and educator with years of
experience in both not-for-profit and for-profit organizations. Vikki’s deep understanding of and commitment
to our mission and our work position her perfectly to lead Northside Center. Vikki envisions a Northside Center
that continues to be a beacon of hope for the children and families of New York City and beyond.

You can read more about Vikki here.

Please join me in welcoming Vikki to our team. Together, we will build upon Northside’s great legacy, and
continue making a difference in the lives of those we serve.

Warm regards,
Thelma Dye

The Hilde L. Mosse President and CEO
Northside Center for Child Development

Here are some photos from our 2024 Gala

Alan Patricof Participates in New York City Marathon

Northside congratulates our Finance Commitee Member and generous supporter Alan Patricof on his recent interview on ABC News, for his participation in the New York City Marathon. Alan was running/walking for CaringKind*, New York City’s leading expert on Alzheimer’s and dementia caregiving. CaringKind* works directly with community partners to develop the information, tools and training to support individuals and families affected by dementia.

Alan, and his entire family have been Northside’s greatest supporters for decades. His late wife Susan served on our Board in a variety of roles for over 40 years, and her generosity and kindness continue to inspire us every day.

Congratulations Alan, for participating in such a great cause! 

Dr. Thelma Dye, Northside Center, The Hilde L. Mosse President & CEO

Jennifer Jones-Austin, FPWA, Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director

 
Front Row: Dr. Hazel N. Dukes, NAACP New York State Conference,  President 
Second Row, Right to Left:
Dr. Thelma Dye, Northside Center, Hilde L. Mosse President & CEO
Jennifer Jones-Austin, FPWA, Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director
The Reverend Al Sharpton, Founder, the National Action Network.

Northside Center speaks with Dr. Watkins, Health Equity Advisor at NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene to answer all of your questions about the COVID-19 vaccine for children.

Watch Now: COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy: Q&A with Dr. Julian Watkins

City & State's 2021 Mental Health Power 50 List

​Northside Center Hilde L. Mosse Executive Director and CEO ​​​​​​Dr. Thelma Dye is featured in City & State’s 2021 Mental Health Power 50 list in recognition of serving as Northside’s executive director since 1994. Dr. Thelma Dye has also worked as a clinical psychology consultant for schools and health care organizations.  

Dr. Thelma Dye Joins PCOM Board

Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM) has named Dr. Thelma Dye, and Virginia A. Stallings, MD, to its Board of Trustees, effective May 19, 2021.

“The depth of expertise and commitment to community that Dr. Dye-Holmes and Dr. Stallings bring to their roles strongly aligns with the College’s mission to care for the whole person and advance the health of the diverse communities we serve,” said John P. Kearney, chairman, PCOM Board of Trustees. “We are very proud to welcome them both to our Board.

Click here for full press release 

Dr. Thelma Dye Honored as Health Hero

On February 18, Empire BlueCross Blue Shield honored 50 Whole Health Heroes who have fought against the unseen enemy of COVID-19. These New Yorkers who hail from the health care sector, the business world, and the nonprofit field have displayed extraordinary leadership, dedication, empathy, and remarkable compassion to help ensure all New Yorkers’ safety and wellness during this crisis.Northside’s Executive Director and CEO, Dr. Thelma Dye, was honored with 49 other heroes. Dr. Dye was appointed as Executive Director in 1994 following an impressive tenure at Northside, where she served as Director of the Clinic, Director of Research and Training, and Chief Psychologist. Dr. Dye has more than 20 years of experience as a psychologist, clinician, researcher, supervisor, and administrator. Since the beginning of March 2020, Dr. Dye has led Northside in these challenging times, helping us shifts our mental health and educational services to remote and hybrid models. Each year, 4,000 children come to Northside Center for Child Development for behavioral health, early childhood education, and enrichment support at its four locations in the Bronx, Harlem, and Brooklyn and through our partner sites citywide. Dr. Thelma Dye has viewed our mission as more urgent than ever during the Covid-19 pandemic because African American and Latino children and families have been disproportionately affected by the physical, mental and social determinants of health. Under Dr. Thelma Dye’s leadership, Northside established tele-mental health services and worked with early childhood education families to support home learning. Northside is working with families to ensure access to food and other emergency support.

View Dr. Thelma Dye’s profile among 50 Whole Health Heroes:

https://www.crainsnewyork.com/crains-cu stom-content-empire-anthem

Remembering Susan Patricof

It is with profound sorrow that Northside Center announces that our long-time Board Chair, President and Board Member, Mrs. Susan Patricof passed away on January 18th, following a long illness. Mrs. Patricof passed away peacefully, in her home, surrounded by her family.

Mrs. Patricof’s dedication, generosity, and love for Northside and the children we serve, was unmatched and will be missed terribly. For over 40 years, Mrs. Patricof led Northside in a variety of roles – having been Board Chair for well over 15 years, Board President and chair of the Board Gala Committee. She was deeply involved in every aspect of Northside, continuing to visit all of the programs as much as she could, even as her health declined. Indeed, Mrs. Patricof’s involvement and impact on Northside has been great and serves as an inspiration to us all as we honor her memory.

In recognition of the many years of dedication and support we proudly named Northside’s East Harlem, Early Head Start/Head Start Program after her “The Susan Patricof Head Start Center (SPHS.)” The kindness, warmth and love Mrs. Patricof exuded will be missed, so very much and will live in Northside’s ongoing work with children and families, which was one of her greatest passions in life. I know you join with me in extending our deepest condolences to the Patricof family.

Remembering Mayor Dinkins

Northside Center mourns the recent loss of Mayor David Dinkins, the 106th Mayor of New York City and the first and only African-American to hold this office. Mayor Dinkins and his wife Joyce (who passed away in October of this year,) were long-time supporters of Northside Center for Child Development. He especially loved reading to our children during the holidays. We are proud to have had the privilege of honoring Mayor Dickins for our 66th Annual Gala in 2012, celebrating his many contributions to New York City. He was an inspiration to the entire Northside family, and to so many across New York City and beyond.

A message from our Executive Director​

Northside Responds to the Novel Coronavirus

Dear Northsiders,

As we monitor and respond to the novel coronavirus, we would like to thank all of you for your support during this trying time. We remain committed to bringing high quality services to our 4,000 children and families, who are even more vulnerable during this time of social distancing and quarantine. 

Northside continues to follow the New York City’s mandate regarding social distancing, and have closed our in-person educational and enrichment programming. The Administrative, IT, and Fiscal departments will remain operational and most work will be done remotely/ off-site until further notice. Northside will be open only to essential staff in order to abide by the PAUSE, Policies Assurance Uniform Safety for Everyone, executive order given by Governor Cuomo.

Please see the following updates on our various programs:

Programmatic Updates
  • Northside Therapeutic Early Childhood Center, Day School, Early Head Start, and Head Start program: The Northside Therapeutic Early Childhood Center, Day School, Early Head Start, and Head Start programs continue to be closed until further notice. Northside is adhering to New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio’s announcement on Sunday, March 15 requiring New York City Schools to close on Monday, March 16 as the city deals with the spread of the novel coronavirus. Northside hopes to be part of the first attempt to restart schools on Monday, April 20. However, we will wait for further notice from the New York City Mayor and/or Department of Education. Please ensure that you are in communication with your supervisor as work is still occurring via remote/distance learning.
  • Early Intervention: Early Intervention continues to work with families offsite and remotely.
  • REACH After School and One-on-One Tutoring programs: The REACH After School and One-on-One Tutoring programs are closed until further notice. We are working to provide remote tutoring sessions and enrichment activities.
  • Administration for Children’s Services Preventive Services, Home-Based Crisis Intervention, and Juvenile Justice Programs: The Administration for Children’s Services Preventive Services, Home-Based Crisis Intervention, and Juvenile Justice Programs are open and meeting with clients remotely until further notice. Social workers will continue to conduct home visits via remote sessions.
  • Northside Mental Health Clinic and Clinic in School programs: The Northside Mental Health Clinic and Clinic in School programs will continue to treat clients and operate remotely via Telemental Health until further notice.
  • Administrative, IT, and Fiscal departments: The Administrative, IT, and Fiscal departments will remain operational and most work will be done remotely/ off-site until further notice. Northside will be open only to essential staff in order to abide by the PAUSE, Policies Assurance Uniform Safety for Everyone, executive order given by Governor Cuomo.
Additional Resources

We have compiled a list of resources to help our community navigate the COVID-19 pandemic:

Northside Staff

EAP: We understand that these can be stressful times for all of us. Please do not hesitate to seek help from our EAP, Employee Assistance Program, provider Integrated Behavior Health if you would like to speak to a counselor, need medical, or other resources.  They can be reached at 1-800-386-7055.

Children and Families

We are working directly with families to connect them to resources such as internet, food, and enrichment activities for children who are at home. Please see and share, if applicable, the following links to the various websites below and the attached document.

  • Breakfast and lunch meals are available for pickup outside schools from 7:30am-1:30pm. Additionally please look out for messages from the Department of Education’s website (schools.nyc.gov).
  • Please also refer to https://www.cdc.gov for more information on how to safe and more information on COVID-19.
  • Scholastic is offering free resources for children who are at home, please be productive with your children so that they do not miss their much- needed education: https://classroommagazines.scholastic.com/support/learnathome.html.
  • Additionally, The Food Bank for NYC is providing emergency food at nearby soup kitchens and food pantries. Please refer to this link for help: https://www.foodbanknyc.org/get-help/
  • If a student does not have internet access for online classes here are a list of companies offering free or reduced priced internet access
  • Grab & Go Breakfast and Lunch are available at all DOE schools for the remainder of this week. Please continue to look out for messages from the Department of Education’s website: www.schools.nyc.gov for updates on remote learning access and meals.
  • There are also community restaurants providing free meals for children and families. Please call your local community restaurants to see if they are providing meals.

Here’s a list of some fun, educational, and safe websites for children to visit and explore:

Please visit the following websites for more information on how to stop the spread of COVID-19:

Please know that we will continue supporting our children and families. We are confident that we will overcome this crisis with grace and strength.

Be well,

Dr. Thelma Dye,

The Hilde L. Mosse President & CEO

Internet Safety Policy

You can see our updated Internet Safety Policy by clicking on the link below:

Northside Center For Child Development Day School – Internet Safety Policy

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1475 Park Avenue New York, NY 10029

Call Us: 212 -426-3400

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