Joel Klein
Full Name and Common Aliases
Joel Klein was born as Joel Ira Klein on July 29, 1946.
Birth and Death Dates
July 29, 1946 - present
Nationality and Profession(s)
American; Lawyer, Educator, Politician
Early Life and Background
Joel Klein grew up in Brooklyn, New York. His family was part of a long line of Jewish immigrants who settled in the United States. Klein's early life would shape his future career choices, as he became interested in social justice from an early age.
Klein attended Brooklyn College, where he earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in 1968. After completing his undergraduate studies, he went on to earn a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from Harvard Law School in 1971.
Major Accomplishments
Joel Klein's impressive career spans over four decades and includes several notable positions:
U.S. Assistant Attorney General for Antitrust: Klein served as the head of the U.S. Department of Justice's antitrust division, where he played a key role in shaping national and international competition policy.
Chancellor of the New York City Department of Education: As Chancellor from 2003 to 2011, Klein implemented numerous education reform initiatives aimed at improving student outcomes and closing achievement gaps.
Notable Works or Actions
Some notable works and actions that highlight Joel Klein's dedication to public service include:
Antitrust Enforcement: During his tenure as U.S. Assistant Attorney General for Antitrust, Klein led several high-profile cases against major corporations, including Microsoft and American Airlines.
Education Reform: As Chancellor of the New York City Department of Education, Klein oversaw the implementation of various education reform initiatives, such as the closure of underperforming schools and the expansion of charter schools.
Impact and Legacy
Joel Klein's impact on the fields of law and education is undeniable. His commitment to public service has inspired a new generation of leaders and policymakers. As an advocate for social justice and equality, he continues to be widely quoted and remembered as a champion of progressive causes.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Joel Klein's quotes are often sought after because of his expertise in law and education. His insights on topics such as antitrust enforcement and education reform offer valuable perspectives for policymakers and scholars alike.
Quotes by Joel Klein

It’s very early in the market. I don’t want to pretend I know exactly how this rolls out. But there’s been an enormous amount of interest.

In the immortal words of Roberto Duran, we are saying, ‘No mas!’ We will educate students and then promote them, not the reverse.

My knowledge of the universe is that if I write stupid jokes, the universe gives me a really nice house and great meals. I do not believe mankind will ever develop a formula to explain this.

It's very early in the market. I don't want to pretend I know exactly how this rolls out. But there's been an enormous amount of interest.


One of the great threats to our national security is social cohesion. If people no longer believe that you can start out anywhere and end up at the top successfully in America, that the American dream is part of the past, I think that erodes a sense of belief and confidence in our nation.

In the immortal words of Roberto Duran, we are saying, 'No mas!' We will educate students and then promote them, not the reverse


