“Dr. Betty Rosa is a longtime ally, close advisor and a dear friend, and I am proud that she has been chosen by her colleagues on the New York State Board of Regents to serve as our chancellor.

“I have worked closely with Dr. Rosa throughout my career as an elected official, first in the New York State Assembly and now as Bronx Borough President. Dr. Rosa is a fighter for our children, and during her years of service as a member of the New York State Board of Regents she has demonstrated her passion on education through her advocacy on a myriad of issues. She is fiercely independent, and has never shied away from criticizing the powers-that-be when she feels they have erred.

“Through her decades of experience as a teacher, superintendent and as a member of the Board of Regents, Dr. Rosa has demonstrated that she has been the right choice for the children of The Bronx and now for all of New York State.

“Dr. Betty Rosa is the very definition of a trailblazer—the first Latina to serve in this position, and the first Bronxite, as well—and I am proud and excited that my good friend has been selected as the Chancellor of the New York State Board of Regents. I look forward to continuing to work with her towards greater education outcomes for children not only in The Bronx, but across this city and this state,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.