David Dinkins is a distinguished American politician, lawyer, and author who made history by serving as the 106th Mayor of New York City from 1990 to 1993, becoming the first African American to hold the office.
Prior to his entry into politics, Dinkins was part of the elite group of over 20,000 Montford Point Marines, the first African-American U.S. Marines, who were trained from 1942 to 1949. During his time in the Marines, Dinkins served from 1945 to 1946 and graduated cum laude from Howard University. He then went on to receive his law degree from Brooklyn Law School in 1956.
Dinkins' political career began with his service in the State Assembly in 1966, eventually leading to his appointment as Manhattan borough president and ultimately, the mayoralty. Under his administration, crime rates in New York City experienced a dramatic and rapid decline, unparalleled in the city's history.
Following his departure from public office, Dinkins joined the faculty at Columbia University, where he continues to share his expertise. He is also an active member of several organizations, including the United States Tennis Association, the Jazz Foundation of America, and the boards of the New York City Global Partners, the Children's Health Fund, the Association to Benefit Children, and the Nelson Mandela Children's Fund.
In addition, Dinkins serves on the advisory board of Independent News & Media and the Black Leadership Forum, and is a member of the Council on Foreign Relations.
