By Jessica Easthope
Incarnation Catholic Academy in Queens Village is undergoing a major transformation under its new principal, Ivan Green.
With a background in nuclear medicine, Green has set out to reshape the school’s learning environment, converting unused classrooms into a library, a hydroponics lab, and a state-of-the-art STEM lab for middle schoolers.
As the first Black male principal in the Diocese of Brooklyn, Green carries the weight of high expectations.
“There’s a lot more in terms of expectations of you, especially from the minority kids who look to you for support,” Green said. “Despite the challenges, he remains focused on providing students with every opportunity to succeed.”
Green’s unique career path, from studying how to use radioactive materials to diagnose and treat diseases, to now leading a school, reflects his commitment to turning potential waste into something valuable.
“I want the kids to apply creativity and science principles not just in STEM, but across all areas of their lives,” he said.
Beyond academics, Green emphasizes the importance of faith.
“You can’t achieve or acquire anything unless it’s through God,” he said, reinforcing his Christ-centered philosophy in the classroom.
For Green, the relationship between students and their principal is a two-way street.
“I need them because I need to see them excel,” he said, calling their success his latest experiment.
As students dive into new learning experiences, Green remains committed to providing the resources they need to thrive, no matter their background or geographical location.