Experience
30 years as an educator
Favorite Quote
"He who has a why to live for can bear almost any how."
Friedrich Nietzsche
Friedrich Nietzsche
Education
- M.A. and C.A.S. in School Counseling from SUNY Oswego
- Executive MA in Public Administration from The Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs at Syracuse University
- Doctorate of Education, Leadership, Management, and Policy in K-12 School Administration from Seton Hall University
Dr. Tolga Hayali proudly serves as the Superintendent of Science Academies of New York Charter Schools (SANY). He started as the school director at Syracuse Academy of Science Charter School (SASCS) in 2008, overseeing 340 students in grades 7-12. Through his visionary leadership, Dr. Hayali spearheaded the expansion of SASCS into the Science Academies of New York Charter Schools with his stakeholders and team, now a network of four K-12 charter schools across seven campuses. Today, SANY serves over 3,100 urban students with a dedicated team of more than 400 staff members across three cities: Syracuse, Rochester, and Utica.
With 29 years of experience in education, Dr. Hayali's career began as a chemistry teacher before he transitioned into various administrative roles, where he excelled in founding and managing charter schools. Over the past 16 years in Central New York, Dr. Hayali has been instrumental in defining SANY's vision, setting goals, and developing strategic plans in collaboration with stakeholders. His responsibilities encompass the leadership and management of all educational, administrative, and operational functions within the schools.
Dr. Hayali is deeply committed to fostering partnerships with community organizations and higher education institutions to support educational initiatives and strengthen the bond between students and their communities. His dedication and impactful contributions to education have earned him significant recognition.
Dr. Hayali has been honored by the United States Congress for his service in the Greater Utica area, received the Education Award from the New York State Assembly, and was granted an Image Award by the Syracuse/Onondaga Chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People. Additionally, the Mohawk Valley Chapter of the United Way acknowledged him as one of the 100 community heroes for his positive impact in the Mohawk Valley. Dr. Hayali also served on the New York State Department of Education's Blue Ribbon Commission on Graduation Measures.
Dr. Hayali graduated from Bogazici University Chemistry Teaching, received his M.A. and C.A.S. in School Counseling from SUNY Oswego, an executive MA in Public Administration from The Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs at Syracuse University, and a Doctorate of Education, Leadership, Management, and Policy in K-12 School Administration from Seton Hall University. He completed the Executive Leadership programs of Public Leadership, Public Policy, and Economic Development at Harvard Kennedy School (H.K.S.). In addition, he completed the Senior Fellow program through H.K.S.
Dr. Hayali resides with his wife and four children in Fayetteville, New York. He enjoys reading, spending time with family, walking, and volunteering. One of his favorite quotes is, “He who has a why to live for can bear almost any how.” by Friedrich Nietzsche.
