Sam Schaeffer is the Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Center for Employment Opportunities (CEO), a New York-based nonprofit that provides employment services to individuals with criminal convictions. Sam joined CEO in 2009 to replicate the program in jurisdictions beyond New York City. During his tenure, CEO has expanded to 30 cities and counting across the country. Prior to joining CEO, Sam served as Director of Economic Development for U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer of New York. In that position, he oversaw all job creation and retention efforts; transportation and infrastructure policy; and social welfare policy. Sam has testified before Congress on multiple occasions and speaks and writes regularly on issues including criminal justice, workforce development, and nonprofit effectiveness. Born and raised in New York City, Sam graduated with a B.A. from Reed College.