Tajuna Sharpe is a human resource professional working in the Department of Labor and Employment Standards in the City of New York. He has over 12 years of experience as an executive recruiter, where he managed a staff of 17 professionals in four offices. Tajuna received his Bachelor’s degree from Jacksonville University in 2001 and has since passed all professional certifications for human resource certification.
Tajuna Sharpe And Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (RIOC)
Tajuna is active with the Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (RIOC). It is a not-for-profit organization that is the Island’s government, providing services to residents and businesses. The governing body of RIOC consists of seven elected officials, referred to as Commissioners. Tajuna was interested in this position because he wanted to positively impact the lives of impoverished residents and contribute to the Island’s future.
In 2017 Tajuna ran for a seat on the RIOC Board of Commissioners. He was one of 22 people to file for the position, making him the second-largest vote-getter in the primary. Tajuna focused on addressing housing and income inequality through his campaign and advocated for working with Congress. He also highlighted that he had a business background, identifying as one of five candidates with commercial experience.
In the general election, Tajuna Sharpe faced Peter G. Buckley, an attorney who had been a RIOC Commissioner since 1998. Tajuna won the race with a total of 2,907 votes to Mr. Buckley’s 1,894 votes. Tajuna Sharpe was sworn into office on January 10th and will serve on the board until March 3rd, 2021.
Outside his work with Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (RIOC), Tajuna is active with the Queen’s Chamber of Commerce, a non-profit organization that brings businesses together to foster commerce. He has sat on their board since 2013 and currently serves as secretary.
In addition, he is actively involved in the youth empowerment policy and leadership development program AIM 4 YOUTH. The organization identifies youth with leadership potential and supports them through one-on-one mentorship.