MTA names chief diversity and inclusion officer

Zapata will be responsible for the MTA’s department of diversity and civil rights, overseeing efforts to provide equitable and inclusive opportunities. She succeeds Tracey Mitchell, who served on an interim basis since February.

Most recently, Zapata served as president and chief executive of the South Bronx Overall Economic Development Corp.

Previously, she held the role of chief diversity officer for the state and executive vice president of the division of minority and women’s business development at Empire State Development. In the latter role, Zapata oversaw certification, compliance, and business development activities.