Illustrious Sir Anthony Ruffini, Esq. - Potentate, Mecca Shriners

Transforming Tradition: Leadership Strategies

llustrious Sir Anthony P. Ruffini, Esq. is a dynamic leader in civilian, military,
government, and Shriners International contexts, with over 25 years of distinguished
experience as an attorney, manager, and Federal Law Enforcement Officer. Known for
his forward-thinking and goal-driven leadership style, Anthony has consistently
exemplified excellence throughout his career. His ability to inspire teams, coupled with
his strategic vision, has positioned him as a transformative figure in every role he has
undertaken.

As the 2024 Potentate of Mecca Shrine No. 1 in New York City, Where it all began…
Anthony has implemented a transformative leadership style that has revitalized the
organization. Alongside First Lady Diana, who has been an integral part of planning and
decision-making, Anthony has spearheaded a visionary "Blueprint for Success." This
plan modernized operations, expanded outreach, and enhanced philanthropic efforts,
particularly through Shriner’s Children. Together, they’ve focused on increasing member
engagement, fostering open communication, and creating a more inclusive environment
that encourages growth and family centric participation. Their collaborative efforts have
streamlined operations and maximized the Mecca’s charitable impact.
A native New Yorker, Anthony graduated cum laude from Saint John’s University with a
degree in legal studies, followed by a Juris Doctor, cum laude degree from New York
Law School, where he served as editor of the Journal of International and Comparative
Law. He is admitted to the bars of New York, New Jersey, and various federal courts,
including the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces, The U.S. Court of
International Trade, and the U.S. Tax Court.

Anthony began his civilian career with the U.S. Customs Service, enforcing federal
regulations on international trade and travel. He then worked as the Principal Law Clerk
to a New York Supreme Court Justice, playing a key role in mediating a $75 million
OxyContin settlement. His legal expertise and advisory skills were crucial in managing
the settlement involving over 1,000 litigants from across the country.
In 2011, Anthony was named the first Regional Counsel for the Federal Emergency
Management Agency (FEMA) in New York City. He was a key member of the executive
leadership team overseeing all phases of FEMA’s operations in Region II (New York,
New Jersey, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands). During his tenure, he led legal
operations in response to major disasters, including Hurricanes Maria, Lee, and
Superstorm Sandy, and became an expert in the Post-Katrina Emergency Management
Reform Act (PKEMRA).

Parallel to his civilian career, Anthony served as a Commissioned Officer in the U.S.
Coast Guard for nearly a decade. He led Port Security Unit 301 and was recalled to
active duty as a Joint Service Liaison Officer to U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM),
coordinating Coast Guard personnel deployments in support of Operation Enduring
Freedom. His leadership earned him numerous military awards, including Coast Guard
and Army Commendation Medals and the Global War on Terrorism Medal.

Anthony lives in Staten Island, NY, with his wife Diana, their children Anthony and
Emilia, and their dog Melli.