Dr. Alfred B. Curtis, Jr. is the former President and CEO of the United Nations Development Corporation, a $280 million public benefit corporation created by New York State to develop and manage facilities for the United Nations community in New York City. During his tenure, he led major initiatives, including the successful sale of the United Nations Plaza Hotel—one of the city’s most notable privatization projects.
He currently leads A. Boima Curtis & Associates, LLC, a Staten Island–based consultancy, and is an accomplished speaker, addressing audiences nationwide, including at academic institutions. Widely recognized as a dedicated leader, philanthropist, and mentor, he and his wife, Dr. Aurelia Curtis, were honored as a “Power Couple” by the Staten Island Advance.
Dr. Curtis made history as the first African American from Staten Island appointed Commissioner of a New York City agency, serving in leadership roles within the Department of Youth and Community Development and related city initiatives. Prior to public service, he held executive positions at Chemical Bank/JP Morgan Chase.
He has served extensively on numerous boards and committees across healthcare, education, and community organizations, including the City University of New York Board of Trustees and Staten Island University Hospital. A lifelong advocate for civic engagement and youth development, he has held leadership roles with organizations such as the NAACP, YMCA, and the Salvation Army.
A recipient of numerous honors, Dr. Curtis has been recognized for his humanitarian work, civic leadership, and community impact, including the New York Governor’s Award for African Americans of Distinction and designation as one of Staten Island’s most influential figures.
He holds degrees in Economics and Business Administration from the College of Staten Island and was awarded an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters from Medgar Evers College.