In 2021, the Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation’s Board of Directors appointed Shelton Haynes as the CEO and President. Haynes joined RIOC in 2016, where he acted as the Vice President of Operations. He was later promoted to COO. In this position, he focused on enhancing the organization’s efficiency. He also promoted growth by training employees, recruiting qualified personnel, improving relationships with the public and applying technology. Haynes set various goals and ensured everyone was focused on pursuing them. When Haynes was appointed acting CEO in 2020, he issued a statement to employees expressing his gratitude for the appointment. He also appreciated the employees’ support and commitment, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Having previously worked with them as the COO, Haynes reiterated his support to them and asked them to do the same.
As a leader, Shelton Haynes has tremendously impacted Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation. One of his most notable contributions has been to increase the Capital Program. Before he came on board, RIOC spent about $4.5 million annually to finance capital projects. Between 2017 and 2020, however, they spent more than $14.5 million annually on projects such as renovating the Blackwell House and replacing the seawall railing.
Shelton Haynes is an alumnus of Hampton University, where he majored in Sociology. His extensive experience in corporate operations, strategic planning and administration has been critical to managing the small Roosevelt Island. With him at the helm, Roosevelt Island has undergone tremendous transformation. He has improved public parks and initiated various programs to support the community. One of RIOC’s goals has been to put the island on the map. They are pursuing this goal with multiple projects, such as building a new pickleball court just behind the Sportspark complex. Haynes noted that people had been requesting a pickleball court, and he was delighted that the project was underway.
In January 2023, the Roosevelt Island Youth Center acquired the School Age Child Care License. The SACC license would be instrumental in helping the center to reach more youth. Haynes also noted that the program would help boost the children’s cognitive and social skills.