FLORAL PARK, NY, March 18, 2025 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Dr. Jerel D. Cokley has been selected for inclusion in Marquis Who's Who. As in all Marquis Who's Who biographical volumes, individuals profiled are selected on the basis of current reference value. Factors such as position, noteworthy accomplishments, visibility, and prominence in a field are all taken into account during the selection process.

A renowned figure in the field of education, Dr. Cokley currently serves as the assistant superintendent for business and operations of the Oceanside School District. In his role, he oversees a substantial budget of $180 million, ensuring that the needs of nearly 30,000 residents are met and that the district's 5,500 students receive a high-quality education. With extensive expertise in budgeting, finance, technology and all non-instructional aspects of education, he manages student transportation, ensures safety and security and maintains facilities. His dedication to his role is evident in his daily commitment to safeguarding resources and fostering a conducive learning environment.

In addition to his work for the Oceanside School District, Dr. Cokley has shared his knowledge as an adjunct professor at Molloy University since 2021 and at Long Island University Post — specializing in public school finance and business administration — since 2015. Previously, he served as the assistant superintendent of business and chief financial officer of the East Hampton Union Free School District (USFD) from 2018 to 2019. His earlier experience includes a role as the assistant superintendent of finance at Hawthorne Cedar Knolls USFD from 2016 to 2018.

Dr. Cokley began his storied career by serving at the New York City Department of Education for more than a decade. After starting in an entry-level position that focused on payroll and timekeeping, he was soon promoted to the role of budget analyst and went on to become the director of finance and business operations. Later in his tenure, he was chosen as one of 12 individuals in the department to participate in the prestigious Chancellor Fellowship program for rising stars in the field.

Throughout his career, Dr. Cokley has been recognized for his achievements and contributions to education and was featured in the Herald Community Newspaper article "Oceanside's energy contract creating savings" in 2024. To stay informed about the latest industry trends and best practices, he is an active member of the Association of School Business Officials (ASBO) New York and ASBO International.

Dr. Cokley's equally accomplished academic background has played a pivotal role in his success. He earned a Doctor of Education in transformational leadership in 2023 and a Master of Science in education and school district business leadership in 2015, both from Long Island University. Additionally, he holds a bachelor's degree in business administration with a minor in sports management from Seton Hall University, where he also excelled as a student-athlete on the school's basketball team. Along with his education, he attributes his success to the valuable life lessons imparted by his parents and brother.

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Dr. Cokley is actively involved in civic organizations. He has served as a Jordan brand flight ambassador for Nike Inc., head basketball coach for New Heights Youth Inc. and boys' varsity basketball assistant coach at Christ the King High School. Additionally, he has volunteered as a coach for USA Basketball's high school boys national team and has mentored young individuals through Big Brothers Big Sisters of America.

Born in Brooklyn, Dr. Cokley enjoys traveling and spending quality family time with his spouse and their daughter. In the coming years, he aims to lead a school district with integrity by embodying servant leadership principles while prioritizing collaborative decision-making for the benefit of students and families. His ultimate professional goal — to become a superintendent — has advanced significantly thanks to his nomination to attend the highly competitive Future Superintendents Academy in 2025.

About Marquis Who's Who®:
Since 1899, when A. N. Marquis printed the First Edition of Who's Who in America®, Marquis Who's Who® has chronicled the lives of the most accomplished individuals and innovators from every significant field of endeavor, including politics, business, medicine, law, education, art, religion and entertainment. Who's Who in America® remains an essential biographical source for thousands of researchers, journalists, librarians and executive search firms around the world. The suite of Marquis® publications can be viewed at the official Marquis Who's Who® website, www.marquiswhoswho.com.

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