Mayor Eric Adams has officially appointed Jessica Tisch as NYPD Commissioner, making her the second woman swiftly to step into the role in the department's 179-year history. This announcement comes as part of a larger mayoral effort to tighten the grip on crime in New York City, which has seen a downward trend across all five boroughs for the last 10 months, according to a city press release.
Tisch, who transitions from her current role as commissioner of the New York City Department of Sanitation (DSNY), previously spent 12 years with the NYPD before her tenure at DSNY. Her leadership there helped to launch the city's "Trash Revolution," which containerized 70 percent of the city's daily trash output as described by the same press release. For Mayor Adams, Tisch's appointment is an assurance to New Yorkers that safety remains a top priority for his administration, and her prior experience positions her well to further advance this agenda.
In a statement reflecting on her appointment, Tisch promised to protect and serve the people of New York City with a renewed dedication to safety, efficiency, and technological advancement. "For 12 years, I cherished the special privilege of serving alongside the brave women and men of the New York City Police Department. I’ve seen firsthand the profound nobility of the policing profession," Tisch told the city's official website. She emphasized a commitment to integrity and the importance of building public trust in the police force.
Regarding her diverse career in public service, Tisch boasts a robust resume that includes key roles not only in waste management but also in information technology. As the former commissioner of DoITT and citywide chief information officer, she enhanced the city's technological prowess, rolling out the city's first text-to-911 capability. Further details provided by the press release cite her instrumental work during the city’s COVID-19 response, showcasing a track record of pivotal leadership in times of crisis. Tisch's educational background is equally impressive, with degrees from Harvard College, Harvard Law School, and Harvard Business School, solidifying her as a homegrown leader committed to the city's advancement.
Mayor Adams' decision also comes with praise for Interim Police Commissioner Thomas Donlon, who temporarily filled the role and has been lauded for his service. "We appreciate his willingness to quickly come on board and dedicate day and night to this city," Adams said regarding Donlon's contributions, according to the city's official website. Tisch's appointment marks another significant step in the mayor's progressive approach to leadership appointments within the city's law enforcement and public services sectors.
