BCS names new executive director as it enters 160th year

Staff

BCS names new executive director as it enters 160th year
Archana Jayaram, the new Executive Director of Brooklyn Community Services. Photo courtesy of Brooklyn Community Services.

Brooklyn Community Services(BCS), one of Brooklyn’s oldest and largest human services organizations, has appointed Archana Jayaram as its new executive director as the agency enters its 160th year of service. Jayaram assumed the role Jan. 5, 2026.

The BCS Education Center, located in the BRIQ Building in Sunset Park at 132 32nd Street and listed at that address since at least 2023, offers English classes, high school equivalency prep, and job training support for Brooklyn residents looking to strengthen their skills and career options. The Education Center also offers digital upskilling and individualized career readiness counseling.

Jayaram brings more than 20 years of senior leadership experience across nonprofit management and city government. Most recently, she served as President and CEO of the Osborne Association, leading a $45 million organization with more than 500 staff. During her tenure, Osborne expanded supportive and transitional housing programs and launched its first evening fundraising event, raising $1.1 million.

Her past roles also include Chief Operating Officer of The Legal Aid Society and Deputy Commissioner for Strategic Planning and Policy at the New York City Department of Buildings.

“I am honored to join BCS and grateful to the Board of Directors for their confidence in me,” Jayaram said in the announcement. “For 160 years, BCS has been a trusted partner to Brooklyn’s communities. I look forward to working alongside this remarkable team to build on BCS’s legacy and expand its impact for generations to come.”

BCS said Jayaram’s appointment coincides with the organization’s launch of a new strategic plan focused on equity, sustainability, and community-driven impact. Founded in 1866, BCS delivers housing, family support, workforce development and other community-based programs across Brooklyn, with more than 50 programs across 25 sites serving over 14,000 Brooklynites each year.

Jayaram succeeds recently retired executive director Janelle Farris, as well as Interim Co-Executive Directors Jodi Querbach and Monae Priolenau-Jones, who led the organization through the past 18 months of transition.