Dear Pursuit community,
When I moved back to NYC after serving in the U.S. Army fourteen years ago, technology and NYC were at an inflection point. At the time, I saw the enormous potential that web 2.0 had to transform every industry and sector. It was an inspiring time, full of ambition and excitement. That’s why I started Coalition for Queens (now Pursuit)—with a vision that my hometown of Queens would benefit and participate in that economic growth. Now, NYC is indisputably the 2nd biggest technology hub in the world and the industry is embedded in every facet of our society.
We’re at another inflection point—and Pursuit is evolving to meet this moment: Artificial Intelligence, like web technology before it, is reshaping industries and demanding new approaches to work and learning. This rapidly evolving environment and the pace of change highlight the critical importance of proactive leadership in this transformative era. Pursuit is evolving to meet this moment and is dedicated to becoming fully AI-native. Make no mistake — I am optimistic for the future. I believe that the opportunities for those we aim to lift up will be greater and more numerous than ever, if we prepare them to meet this opportunity.
As Pursuit evolves, I have decided to also evolve my role. I’ve come to realize it’s time for me to move on to my next challenge. I’m excited about the pace of AI development and the potential acceleration of economic growth. There’s never been a better time to build. My first priority is finding Pursuit’s next leader. I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve built over the past 14 years. I’ll be even prouder to have built an organization that serves the public good and has lasting impact beyond any one individual, including me.
We are officially launching a search for a new CEO to serve as the day-to-day leader of the organization. This next chapter needs a new leader who will chart our course for the opportunities and challenges for the decade ahead. I will remain fully active as CEO throughout the search. Once the new CEO is in place, I will transition to serve as Board Chair, focusing on long-term strategy, board development, and external partnerships—places where my talents are best utilized and where I can help this organization the most. I am committed to making sure that Pursuit is in good hands, and where I can continue to help without getting in the way. I remain fully dedicated to Pursuit’s success, and to helping guide our long-term vision and championing our critical mission.
Creating a jobs solution at scale is among the most important socio economic challenges of our time. That’s why I believe in this organization more than ever. Our mission—elevating individuals, families, and communities by expanding access to economic opportunity—remains consistent. The methods we use to get there will continue to evolve, especially as we integrate AI into every facet of our work. Pursuit has always embraced the fast pace of change. We believe that change creates opportunity and that opportunity needs to be available to people who may not be able to access it on their own. So today, in this time of significant change, I see it as a chance to deepen our impact, grow our community, and fulfill our responsibility to help as many people as possible realize their full potential.
Thank you for your continued support and your belief in Pursuit’s mission. I look forward to supporting our next CEO, celebrating new milestones, and watching this community build ahead. Just as we have always worked to enable our Fellows and community for the changes ahead in their own careers, I’m excited by the next step in the leadership of Pursuit. Together, we will continue to transform lives and expand what’s possible for everyone. This is not the end, this is a new beginning.
If you’re interested in learning more about the role or know anyone who would be a great leader for Pursuit, please contact us at ceosearch@pursuit.org.
With gratitude and love,
Jukay
