Robert E. Cornegy Jr.
Author of Seen Before Known: Turning Society’s Labels into Personal Power
Robert E. Cornegy Jr.
He is an author, former New York City Council Member, community leader, and advocate for human dignity, personal growth, and the power of self-definition.
Standing seven feet tall, Robert has spent much of his life being noticed before being understood. His extraordinary height has often shaped how others perceive him, creating expectations about his abilities, personality, ambitions, and identity before he has had the opportunity to define himself.
Yet his story extends far beyond his physical presence.
From athletics and education to public service and community leadership, Robert’s journey reflects a lifelong commitment to growth, service, and human connection. As a former New York City Council Member representing Brooklyn’s 36th Council District, he worked to strengthen communities, advocate for families, and expand opportunities for others.
Beyond his public accomplishments, Robert is a father, lifelong learner, and advocate for emotional well-being. His personal experiences with anxiety, depression, self-reflection, and psychotherapy have deepened his understanding of the often-invisible struggles that shape human lives.
Through his writing, Robert challenges the assumptions we make about others and the labels we sometimes internalize about ourselves. He invites readers to look beyond appearances, question inherited expectations, embrace vulnerability, and discover the freedom that comes from authentic self-understanding.
His message is simple yet powerful: We are more than what the world sees, and our greatest freedom begins when we learn to see ourselves fully.
Never Give Up: A Memoir of Resilience, Purpose, and Becoming the Change
From Brooklyn to leadership—rising so others may rise.
Never Give Up is Gary’s deeply personal and powerful memoir—a story of resilience, purpose, legacy, and leadership in the face of adversity. It’s a message to every dreamer, advocate, and public servant: your story matters, and it’s not over yet.
In Never Give Up, Gary P. Jenkins invites us into his extraordinary journey—from a young Black boy growing up in Brooklyn, navigating the weight of grief and poverty, to becoming Commissioner of the largest social service agency in the nation, overseeing a $13 billion budget and a workforce of nearly 15,000.
But this is more than a story of titles and triumph. It is a testament to grit, grace, and the power of staying rooted in love. As the former Commissioner of the NYC Department of Social Services and current Chief Administrative Officer of Urban Pathways, Gary has not only led through crisis—he has led with character.
This memoir is not just about one man’s rise. It is a mirror for anyone who has ever been told they were not enough. It is a blueprint for those determined to lead with purpose, and it is a prayer for a more compassionate world.
Gary’s 30+ year journey from frontline worker to citywide Commissioner is told with vulnerability, dignity, and undeniable courage. His story speaks to every city worker, every youth with a dream, every leader at a crossroads, and every heart that refuses to quit.
Key Themes & Topics
Resilience & Transformation
Leadership with Heart
Navigating Race & Identity in Service
Mentorship & Brotherhood
Public Service & Social Justice
Equity
Black male vulnerability and strength
Legacy, purpose, and perseverance
Advance Praise
“Gary P. Jenkins reminds us that grace and grit can coexist…”
— Rev. A. R. Bernard
“A brilliant work of truth and testimony…”
— Dr. Charles J. Gibbs
Stay Connected
Also by SWEET Institute Publishing
“A courageous, purpose-driven man who has never lost his humanity…”
— Hon. Edolphus Towns
Speaking & Events
Gary is available for keynotes, panel discussions, and workshops on leadership, resilience, public service, and community transformation.