Retha Fernandez

Strategic Engagement Manager

Retha Fernandez joined National Grid Ventures and Community Offshore Wind in March 2023 as the Strategic Engagement Manager. In this role Retha supports the creation of workforce and economic development strategies alongside the strategic engagement team helping ensure the success of all projects; delivering local clean energy for all. On the current project, Community Offshore Wind, Retha has the responsibility of implementing $41 million dollars of workforce development initiatives, with a focus on disadvantaged communities in New York State. Retha formerly served as the inaugural Chief Diversity & Inclusion Officer for Suffolk County government where she led the development and implementation of the County’s diversity and inclusion initiatives, including leading the development of the County’s first strategic plan for talent recruitment. She has over two decades of private sector experience in technology strategy development and relationship management, and has served in executive leadership roles at a Fortune 500 company.

Retha has received several citations and recognitions from organizations across New York State and serves on several advisory committees for diversity, equity, and inclusion. She was deeply honored to receive the Leadership in Purpose and Social Impact Award from her alma mater in November 2023, a distinction offered by the college president.

Her deep commitment to community service, youth development, and advocacy is demonstrated through her full engagement as a member with leadership roles in Jack & Jill of America, Inc. Suffolk County Chapter, the National Coalition of 100 Black Women - Suffolk County Chapter and the Eastern Shore (NY) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated.

Retha holds a Bachelor of Science degree, Summa Cum Laude, in Organizational Management from St. Joseph’s University and is a Chopra Center Certified Meditation Instructor. She is devoted to her personal practice as she believes meditation and generating feelings of love and compassion for ourselves and others are the way to affect social change. "Live well, be well" is her mantra! Retha resides in Babylon with her husband of 17 years and their teenage son, Taylor.