Zoila Del Castillo is a first-generation Dominican American, college graduate, and lawyer who was proudly raised in the Bronx. After a career as a prosecutor, Zoila was appointed by Gov. Kathy Hochul to serve as Deputy Secretary of State for Economic Opportunity with the New York Department of State in 2022. In this capacity, Zoila oversees an expansive and diverse portfolio that includes the NYS Office of Administrative Hearings, the Office for New Americans, the Division of Consumer Protection, and the Division of Community Services and serves as the Secretary of State’s designee to the Committee on Open Government. She is responsible for developing strategic programs and policies that foster the integration of new Americans, protect and educate consumers, and ensure essential services are delivered to families in need within New York State.
Prior to her appointment, Zoila served as an Assistant Attorney General in the Criminal Enforcement and Financial Crimes Bureau at the Office of the New York State Attorney General. In this role, she prosecuted and investigated complex financial crimes. In addition, she served as a member of the Attorney General’s diversity committee. Before joining the Attorney General’s Office, Zoila served as an Assistant District Attorney for Kings County prosecuting various criminal offenses.
Zoila is currently a member of the LatinoJustice’s Líderes Young Professionals Board, where she supports the organization’s mission to advocate for equitable and accessible justice. She has also been recognized by the American Bar Association 2021 On the Rise – 40 Top Young Lawyers Award, Crain’s New York Business 2021 Excellence in Diversity and Inclusion Champion of Change Award, the Prospanica New York 2021 Top Latinx Leaders Award, and served as a 2021 fellow of the Council of Urban Professionals.
Zoila holds a law degree from Wayne State University Law School and a bachelor’s degree in government from John Jay College of Criminal Justice.
Words of Wisdom: “Take advantage of every opportunity that comes your way, with grace and humility. Be sponge — And absorb and learn.” – Chita Rivera
