Emma Jordan-Simpson
Executive Director, CDF-New York

The Reverend Dr. Emma Jordan–Simpson is the Executive Director of the Children’s Defense Fund – New York. A beneficiary of programs like the first generation of Head Start and free after school programs run by local churches in Newark, NJ, she knew early on that she wanted to live a life of service to community. When she earned her BA from Fisk University in 1985 (Cum Laude), she became a “first generation” college graduate. She has earned a Master of Divinity degree from Union Theological Seminary (New York City) and a Doctor of Ministry Degree (with distinction) from Drew Theological Seminary (New Jersey).

Rev. Dr. Jordan–Simpson also serves as Associate Pastor for The Concord Baptist Church of Christ, in Brooklyn. In 1989, the year the church celebrated the 142nd anniversary of its founding, and more than 50 years since the church ordained its first woman into the gospel ministry, she became the second woman in the church’s history to be ordained.

She currently serves on the Board of Directors for Union Theological Seminary (New York City), the Brooklyn Community Foundation, the Weeksville Heritage Society and the Concord Christfund. She is also a proud member of the Black Women for Black Girls Giving Circle.

She is married to the Rev. Dr. Gary V. Simpson and they are proud parents of three children, Candace Yonina, David Michael and Jordan Elizabeth.