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Mercy Anampiu
Senior Director, Community Engagement, Lowell Community Health Center
Mercy brings more than 20 years of dedicated experience in community health. She currently serves as the Senior Director of Community Engagement at Lowell Community Health Center, where she leads a wide range of programs, including workforce development, health promotion, Social Determinants of Health (SDOH), youth development, and language access services. In this role, Mercy champions equitable access to care, supports the professional growth of healthcare staff, and cultivates meaningful community partnerships that drive long-term health improvement.
As part of Lowell’s Comprehensive Master Plan, Mercy was hired by Utile Designs as a Community Organizer, ensuring that community voices were intentionally included, respected, and elevated throughout the planning process.
A recognized advocate and mentor, Mercy regularly facilitates specialized training for medical interpreters, Community Health Workers, and public health professionals—strengthening skills, capacity, and leadership across the sector. Her multifaceted expertise as a Community Health Worker, educator, and trusted community resource has made her a highly valued leader and collaborator.
Mercy holds an MBA from Fitchburg State University and has completed several postgraduate trainings focused on healthcare and nonprofit leadership. She also serves on multiple boards and advisory committees. Deeply passionate about community well-being, Mercy dedicates her work to supporting priority populations, reducing health disparities, and promoting equitable opportunities for all.
Mercy has proudly called Lowell home since 2003. She is married to her husband, John, and together they have two children, Sydney (24) and Nathan (14). Outside of her professional commitments, Mercy enjoys exploring nature, volunteering, visiting those in need, and singing in the choir.
Jennifer Aradhya
VP of Marketing, Strategy and Programs, Greater Lowell Community Foundation
Jennifer Aradhya is Vice President for Marketing, Programs, and Strategy at the Greater Lowell Community Foundation, where she drives the strategic direction for community grants, community convening, and marketing initiatives. She collaborates with the President and CEO, executive team, and board to refine funding priorities, design community programs, and oversee grant management.
Her expertise in marketing and communications enhances the Foundation’s visibility and community relationships through comprehensive strategies, including digital campaigns, social media management, and event marketing. She leads the development of annual reports and marketing collateral to support fundraising and donor engagement.
Prior to joining the Foundation in 2019, Jennifer spent two decades in higher education marketing at Middlesex Community College, advancing from Senior Graphic Designer to Dean of Marketing Communications. She led award-winning campaigns, managed marketing teams, and directed the college’s rebranding, website redesign, and social media strategy initiatives.
Jennifer is also a mixed media artist who creates and showcases fine art. She serves as a Lowell Cemetery Trustee and serves on the advisory boards of Women Accelerators and Small Acts for Sustainability.
Elizabeth Baez Roberts, Esq.
Founder & Owner, Baez Law Group
Elizabeth Baez Roberts, Esq., is the founder and owner of Baez Law Group, a boutique real estate law firm serving Massachusetts and New Hampshire. Elizabeth founded the firm in 2015 and leads all aspects of its strategy, operations, and client service delivery. Her practice focuses on residential and commercial real estate transactions, representing buyers, sellers, investors, developers, and lending institutions. She regularly serves as closing attorney for local and national lenders, overseeing transactions that require careful risk management, regulatory compliance, and fiduciary oversight.
In addition to her legal practice, Elizabeth also brings meaningful nonprofit and civic leadership experience. She has served on multiple boards and advisory bodies throughout the City of Lawrence and surrounding cities by contributing legal insight, governance perspective, and strategic guidance to organizations focused on long-term community growth and development.
Elizabeth currently serves as a Board Member at Merrimack Health, where she sits on the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee. She also serves as a Board Member of Lawrence CommunityWorks, a non-profit organization dedicated to housing access, education, and neighborhood-based growth. Elizabeth is actively engaged with Tres Sueños Morados and Top Notch Scholars, organizations supporting initiatives that expand professional development, mentorship, and coaching opportunities for youth across the Merrimack Valley.
Elizabeth lives in the Merrimack Valley with her husband, Joe, and their youngest daughter Nia. Together, they share a blended family of five children, and she is a proud grandmother to Mateo and Noah. Elizabeth loves being a cheer mom and a devoted dog mom to Phoebe. Above all, she values time spent with family, traveling together, learning about different cultures, and remaining deeply connected to the community where she was raised and continues to serve.
Elizabeth holds a B.S in Business Administration- International Business from Northeastern University and earned her Juris Doctor from the Massachusetts School of Law.
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Rubirosa (Ruby) Balborda
EVP, Silverio Insurance Agency
Ruby Balborda is the Executive Vice President of Sales at Silverio Insurance Agency, where he helps guide the agency’s growth while working closely with business owners, families, and individuals on risk management and long-term planning. His career reflects a balance of leadership, operations, and service, with a strong focus on people and community.
Ruby began his professional career at the law firm Zwicker & Associates, where he spent ten years in management. This experience helped shape his leadership style and provided a strong foundation in operations, accountability, and team development. In 2016, he entered the insurance industry as a Commercial Lines Risk Advisor at Foster Sullivan Insurance Group (now Acrisure), specializing in environmental contractors and trucking. He later joined USI Insurance Services as Vice President of Commercial Lines in the Transportation Division, returning to a senior leadership role.
In 2021, Ruby recognized an opportunity to come back home and joined Silverio Insurance Agency as Vice President of Sales. Today, as Executive Vice President of Sales, he continues to contribute to the agency’s growth, expansion, and long-term success.
Ruby is deeply involved in the Lawrence community and the greater Merrimack Valley. He serves on the Merrimack Valley YMCA Board of Directors, is a member of the Executive Committee, previously chaired the Lawrence YMCA Branch Board, and served as Clerk of the Board of Directors. He is also Treasurer of the Lawrence Partnership Network Committee and regularly volunteers his time leading educational workshops for first-time homebuyers, small business owners, and youth.
Ruby believes leadership starts with service and consistency. He is married, a father of four, and passionate about strengthening local organizations and creating opportunities that have a lasting impact in Lawrence.
Conor Baldwin
Assistant City Manager for Fiscal Affairs, City of Lowell, MA
Conor Baldwin is the Assistant City Manager for Fiscal Affairs/Chief Financial Officer (“ACM/CFO”) and has worked for the City of Lowell since 2010. He was appointed CFO in July 2014; prior to that, he directed the City’s LowellSTAT program in the City Manager’s Office. He holds a bachelor’s degree in History and English/Communications (BA) and a master’s degree in Regional Economic and Social Development (MA), both from UMass Lowell (’07 and ’09). His graduate research specialized in public policy and administration and included a 2009 study on municipal performance management, as well as a graduate thesis examining the role of Lowell’s creative economy in the City’s economic development.
In his role as ACM/CFO, Conor oversees and directs treasury, budgeting, assessing, tax, purchasing, real estate, and insurance activities for the City. He directs, compiles, and manages the City’s $617+ million annual operating budget and finances the capital improvement plan. During his tenure as CFO, Conor has also served in acting capacities as City Treasurer and Tax Collector. Under his direction, the City of Lowell’s Budget Department has been awarded the prestigious Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) Distinguished Budget Award for the past ten years.
A lifelong Lowell resident, Conor currently lives in the Highlands neighborhood with his wife and two daughters. He serves on the Board of Trustees for Lowell Catholic High School and on the parish finance council for St. Michael’s Church. Other civic involvement includes participation in the Lowell Public Matters program in 2012.
Michael Bastien
Founder & CEO, Brothers in Arms Men’s Support Circle
Michael Bastien is the Founder & CEO of Brothers in Arms Men’s Support Circle, a community-rooted organization dedicated to men’s mental health, restorative practices, and generational transformation. Since its launch in 2022, Brothers in Arms has served over 200 men and youth, reaching individuals as young as 7 and as mature as 80 through men’s circles, youth restorative circles, leadership development, and crisis-support programs.
Michael currently wears multiple hats—facilitator, organizer, fundraiser, program designer, and event producer—while guiding BIA through a period of rapid growth. Under his leadership, the organization expanded from $36,000 to over a quarter million dollars in a single year, fueling new programs, staff capacity, and community impact. He is also the Co-Founder of the annual Juneteenth Arts & Awareness Festival, which drew more than 1,000 attendees this year and is expanding into a multi-day local celebration. Additionally, he oversees retreats, school and organizational partnerships, leadership pipelines, branding, curriculum development, and broad community engagement initiatives.
One of Michael’s top priorities is the Fatherhood Relief Fund, an initiative supporting fathers facing financial hardship by pairing short-term assistance with long-term financial literacy, life skills, and empowerment. Having already raised $5,000 toward this effort, Michael’s goal is to “teach men and boys in our community how to fish,” fostering stability, dignity, and generational uplift.
Looking ahead, he is exploring ways to integrate technology with in-person circles to expand access, strengthen community, and increase national reach—while staying grounded in BIA’s relational, healing-centered approach. His long-term vision is bold: to serve one million men nationwide through culturally responsive circles, leadership development, and innovative community solutions.
Michael graduated from Northern Essex Community College and has completed the Institute for Nonprofit Practice’s Core Certificate Program. He has also completed Tier 1 and 2 Restorative Justice Training at Suffolk University and continues to pursue advanced leadership and facilitation education.
Aliali Belkus
Head of School, Blessed Stephen Bellesini O.S.A. Academy
Aliali Silverio Belkus serves as Head of School at Bellesini Academy, where she leads the strategic vision, academic program, fundraising efforts, and community partnerships that advance the school’s mission of transforming students’ lives through rigorous academics, holistic development, and comprehensive support. In this role, Ali works closely with faculty, families, and the Board of Trustees to strengthen school culture, expand opportunities for students and alumni, and ensure long-term institutional sustainability.
Prior to joining Bellesini Academy, Ali held leadership roles in independent and nonprofit educational settings, overseeing community engagement and program development. Most recently, she served as Assistant Principal of Community and Belonging at Central Catholic High School in Lawrence, Massachusetts. Her work has focused on strengthening student-centered initiatives, expanding access to high-quality educational experiences, and building strong organizational systems rooted in equity and excellence.
Ali is an active contributor to the Merrimack Valley community, collaborating with local partners on youth development, family engagement, and school improvement efforts. She is deeply committed to developing the next generation of leaders and ensuring that young people—particularly those from underserved communities—have access to the academic, social, and personal resources they need to thrive.
Originally from Lawrence, Ali lives in Methuen with her husband, Jason, and their four children: Jason Dario, Ana, Avalyn, and Jackson. Her interests include exercising, reading, enjoying the outdoors, and spending time with friends and family. She is also an avid runner.
Ali holds a Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies (CAGS) in Educational Leadership from Fitchburg University, an M.A. in English from UMass Boston, and a B.A. in Media Studies/Communications from Sacred Heart University. She has received numerous accolades for her work, including recognition as an ALPFA Boston Next50 Community Leader and being named one of Amplify Latinx’s Top 100 Latinx Leaders in Massachusetts.
Javier Bristol
Executive Director, Boys & Girls Club of Greater Haverhill
Javier Bristol is the Executive Director of the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Haverhill. A proud former Club member, he credits the organization with playing a pivotal role in his personal and professional development. Over the years, Javier has served as a mentor, lifeguard, coach, and board member before stepping into his current leadership role. Today, he oversees all aspects of operations, including resource development, staff and program growth, and facility management, ensuring a world-class experience for hundreds of youth.
In addition to his work with the Club, Javier is an active member of the Exchange Club and collaborates with other nonprofits and businesses focused on youth development and community engagement. Prior to nonprofit leadership, he began his career at State Street Bank & Trust in Transfer Agency, specializing in quality control and client services.
Javier earned his Bachelor of Science in Business in 2013 and his Master of Business Administration in 2015 from Anna Maria College. During his time at Anna Maria, he played four years of college basketball, an experience that instilled teamwork, discipline, and perseverance—qualities he carries into his professional life today.
Javier lives in Newton, New Hampshire, with his wife, Ariel, and their three children—Delilah, Elizabeth, and Alexander. Having worked or lived in the Haverhill community for more than 25 years, he values staying connected and giving back. In his free time, Javier enjoys maintaining an active lifestyle, including volunteer coaching for youth sports and playing pickup basketball.
Jeffrey Bush
President, Heritage Properties
Jeff Bush is the President of Heritage Properties, a third-generation real estate development and management company based in Lowell, Massachusetts. He oversees the company’s multifamily portfolio, leads the firm’s team across operations, asset management, and development, and drives the strategic growth of the platform, with a particular focus on Lowell. Since joining Heritage in 2016, Jeff has led acquisitions and development totaling more than 230 new multifamily units, with an additional 300 units in the active pipeline. His work spans site selection, entitlements, financing, community engagement, and the execution of both ground-up and adaptive reuse projects.
Before entering real estate, Jeff began his career as a special education teacher on Cape Cod, where he worked with especially vulnerable populations in a residential school setting. Today, he remains deeply engaged in the region’s civic and nonprofit landscape. Jeff serves as President of House of Hope, a Lowell-based family shelter, and sits on the boards of both The Lowell Plan and the Lowell Development and Finance Corporation (LDFC). He is deeply committed to all things Lowell, particularly to strengthening housing opportunities and helping advance the city’s long-term economic development vision.
Jeff lives in Groton, Massachusetts, with his wife, Jane, their son, Teddy, and a second child on the way. He is an avid endurance athlete and enjoys running, biking, rucking, triathlons, and golf.
Jeff earned a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Brown University and holds a Certificate in Real Estate Finance from Boston University.
Sothea Chiemruom
Executive Director, Cambodian Mutual Assistance Association
Sothea Chiemruom is a respected nonprofit leader and community advocate, serving as Executive Director of the Cambodian Mutual Assistance Association in Lowell, Massachusetts. With more than thirty years of experience in program operations, administration, management, and community advocacy, he has devoted his career to advancing equity, elevating underrepresented voices, and strengthening the social and civic networks that support thriving communities.
Throughout his career, Sothea has worked closely with youth, elders, and marginalized groups. He has helped design and implement programs that promote education, economic mobility, civic participation, and leadership development. His work reflects a lifelong commitment to helping immigrant and refugee communities build confidence, achieve self-sufficiency, and foster long-term community resilience.
In addition to leading the Cambodian Mutual Assistance Association, Sothea serves as Vice Chairperson of the Affordable Housing Trust in Tyngsborough. He also contributes his expertise as a board member of Community Teamwork Inc. and AgeSpan Inc., deepening collaborations across state, regional, and nonprofit partners to support community development in both Lowell and Greater Boston.
Sothea’s personal journey shapes his leadership. He arrived in Massachusetts as a Cambodian refugee and has dedicated his life to serving the communities that helped raise him. His experience living and working in both Boston and Lowell provides him with a strong understanding of the region and a deep commitment to strengthening opportunities for immigrant families. He resides in Tyngsborough with his wife and children.
Nicole Champagne
Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, University of Massachusetts Lowell
Nicole Champagne is the Associate Dean for Academic Affairs in the Zuckerberg College of Health Sciences at UMass Lowell. In her role, she oversees recruitment and student success initiatives within the College. Prior to becoming Associate Dean in 2019, Nicole served as an Associate Professor and Chair in the Department of Public Health. During her 29 years at the University, she has been committed to connecting classroom learning with the communities surrounding UMass Lowell. This engagement with individuals and organizations doing public health work has been a cornerstone of her approach to student learning. Nicole currently serves as Board Chair for the Greater Lowell Health Alliance and has been a member of the Board since 2019.
Nicole resides in Hudson, New Hampshire, and is married with a son who graduated from UMass Lowell in 2024. In her spare time, she enjoys golf, reading, and spending time outdoors with her dog, Stella.
She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from Stonehill College, a Master of Education in Health Promotion from Bridgewater State College, and a Doctoral degree in Health and Behavior Studies from Columbia University.
Dianne M. Connolly
Director of Title I and Community Outreach, Haverhill Public Schools
Dianne M. Connolly is an experienced educational leader with more than 30 years in public education. She currently serves as Director of Title I and Community Outreach for Haverhill Public Schools, overseeing federal programs, family engagement initiatives, and community partnerships that support student achievement.
Previously, she spent ten years as Principal of Pentucket Lake Elementary School, leading its transformation from a Level 3 (Underperforming) to a Level 1 school through data-driven leadership, instructional coherence, and strong professional collaboration. Her work included managing a $3.6 million budget, leading a staff of 90, strengthening literacy instruction, and expanding intervention systems.
Throughout her career, Dianne has demonstrated a deep commitment to family and community engagement, developing partnerships that provide wraparound supports and overseeing extended learning programs serving more than 750 students. A frequent state and national presenter, she is known for translating school improvement practices into actionable strategies grounded in collaboration and equity.
Kate Cook
CEO, The Greater Haverhill Chamber of Commerce
Katie Cook currently serves as President & CEO of the Greater Haverhill Chamber of Commerce, where she leads regional business development, fosters strategic partnerships, and creates innovative programs that strengthen the Greater Haverhill Area’s economic vitality. In this role, she oversees member engagement, marketing, community events, and new initiatives such as a free networking series, The Methuen Business Alliance, and expanded educational programming for local businesses.
Katie previously spent 15 years in administration, HR, and sales at a startup visiting-nurse agency, followed by serving as Chief for the Massachusetts State Auditor’s Office. She has an extensive background in operations, communications, and public-facing community work. In addition to leading the Chamber, Katie is Publisher of Haverhill Life and Salem Life, newspapers under Gateway Media, where she champions positive local news and supports hundreds of small businesses through affordable advertising and storytelling.
Her volunteer work includes serving on the Department of Children & Families (DCF) Board of Directors in Haverhill, organizing annual gift drives for foster teens, and supporting Rotary and Exchange Club initiatives. Katie is passionate about connecting people, uplifting families, and strengthening local communities.
Viviana Cordero García
Chief Alumni Success Officer, Esperanza Academy
Viviana Cordero Garcia is a community-rooted education leader whose work spans youth development, immigrant advocacy, and long-term systems change. She currently serves as the Chief Alumni Success Officer at Esperanza Academy in Lawrence, Massachusetts, where she leads a 12-year Graduate Success Program that supports students from middle school through early career.
Born in Ecuador and raised in Queens, New York, Viviana began her leadership journey early through a pre-teaching academy in the Bronx, where she worked as a classroom assistant while still in high school. Education has remained a central tool in her life, as both a pathway to opportunity and a practice of access, dignity, and belonging. Her early career included college-access and student-support work with organizations such as The Posse Foundation, as well as grassroots education, ESOL, and civic-literacy efforts grounded in community partnerships.
A first-generation college graduate, Viviana is now based in the Merrimack Valley, with deep roots in Lawrence and Haverhill. She earned a master’s degree in Higher Education from the University of Maryland, College Park, which deepened her commitment to building more accessible and human-centered educational systems. She has also served on the board of a Lawrence-based affordable housing organization, contributing to community-led approaches to housing justice during a period of organizational growth and transition. Alongside her work in education, she facilitates reflective and relational spaces for women in leadership, integrating spirituality, cultural memory, and care as sources of resilience and clarity.
Viviana approaches leadership as a long-term practice, one shaped by lived experience, grounded in equity, and sustained through relationship, community, and the everyday work of nurturing possibility. When she’s not deep in conversation or community work, you can often find Viviana dancing in the kitchen with her two young children, husband, and pup.
Dr. Glavielinys Cruz
Owner and CEO, Wellness Way Psychological Services, LLC
Dr. Glavielinys Cruz is a licensed mental health clinician in Massachusetts and currently serves as the Site Manager and Lead Clinician at a school-based health center for Lynn Community Health Center. In this role, she provides clinical leadership, oversees behavioral health operations, and delivers evidence-based mental health treatment in both individual and group formats. She also serves as the Behavioral Health Director for the Integrated Center for Group Medical Visits (ICGMV) in Lawrence, where she guides program development and integrates behavioral health services within innovative, team-based medical care models.
In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Cruz is the owner and CEO of Wellness Way Psychological Services, LLC, where she provides specialized therapeutic services and organizational consultation. She contributes meaningfully to her community through volunteer leadership and by serving on the boards of two Lawrence nonprofit organizations: Waystone Health and Human Services and The Integrated Center for Group Medical Visits. Dr. Cruz also holds a faculty appointment as a Clinical Instructor in the Family Medicine Department at Tufts University School of Medicine, where she supports the training and professional growth of emerging healthcare providers.
Born and raised in Lawrence, Dr. Cruz continues to reside in her hometown, where she is a proud homeowner. Outside of her professional roles, she enjoys traveling with her family, reading, visiting museums and historical sites, and attending concerts and musicals.
Dr. Cruz holds a BA in Psychological and Brain Sciences and Spanish Literature from Dartmouth College, a postbaccalaureate premedical certificate from Harvard Extension School, and both a master’s degree and a doctorate in Clinical Psychology from William James College.
Rafael De la Cruz
Executive Director, Living Waters Shelter
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Josselyn De Leon-Estrada
Deputy Chief of Staff, City of Haverhill
Josselyn De Leon-Estrada serves Mayor Melinda E. Barrett as Deputy Chief of Staff for the City of Haverhill. She is responsible for the administration and operation of the Mayor’s Office and Haverhill City Hall. In her role, she acts as a senior advisor and liaison for the Mayor, managing stakeholders, special projects, communications, and constituent services.
Before working for the City of Haverhill, Josselyn led a public policy nonprofit focused on climate and clean energy, transportation, housing, and workforce development. She has also served other elected officials across all levels of government, including Congresswoman Lori Trahan, former State Representative Christina Minicucci, and former Mayor of Lawrence Dan Rivera. Josselyn began her career in politics working on electoral campaigns.
Born and raised in Lawrence, Josselyn continues to reside in her hometown. She is active in the local community, serving as Vice Chair of the Lawrence Partnership Network. When she is not working or volunteering, she enjoys long walks outdoors and exploring arts and culture activities across the region.
Josselyn graduated from Brown University with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Latin American and Caribbean Studies.
Phil DeCologero
President’s Director of Communications and External Affairs, Northern Essex Community College
Phil DeCologero is the President’s Director of Communications and External Affairs at Northern Essex Community College (NECC), where he collaborates with local, state, federal, and community partners to advance the mission of NECC. Prior to joining NECC, Phil served as Director of Community & External Affairs for the Office of the State Auditor, Executive Director of the Amesbury Chamber of Commerce, and Chief of Staff to the Mayor of Methuen.
His community work includes co-founding the North Andover Merchants Association, spearheading the development of the North Andover Farmers Market, and serving six years on the North Andover Select Board. He is an active volunteer with Debbie’s Treasure Chest and has participated in the Greater Haverhill Chamber of Commerce’s Methuen Business Alliance initiative.
A lifelong resident of the Merrimack Valley, Phil, a North Andover native, moved to Hudson, New Hampshire, in 2021, where he lives with his three daughters, a yellow lab, a couple of beehives, and too many backyard chickens.
Phil graduated from Merrimack College in 2010 with a B.A. in Political Science.
Leanne Eastman
SVP, Community and Public Relations Director
Leanne Eastman has spent more than 20 years working and volunteering in the City of Haverhill, building trusted relationships across the community through a career rooted in marketing, public relations, and civic engagement. A graduate of St. Anselm College, she began her professional journey at the Greater Haverhill Chamber of Commerce, where she managed events, marketing, and economic development initiatives while establishing herself as a well-known and respected community connector. In 2010, Leanne joined Pentucket Bank as its first in-house marketing professional, later leading strategic marketing, communications, and community engagement efforts. An American Bankers Association Certified Financial Marketing Professional, she proudly led the Bank’s 2023 rebrand, Start with Heart, and played a key role in the formation of River Run Bancorp, MHC. Today, she oversees corporate communications, public relations, community support, and charitable giving for River Run, Pentucket Bank, Newburyport Bank, and Rollstone Bank & Trust.
Deeply committed to giving back, Leanne has served in numerous volunteer leadership roles throughout Greater Haverhill. She is a longtime board member of the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Haverhill and made history as its first female Board President. She remains actively involved in capital campaigns, endowment initiatives, and fundraising efforts, and also serves on the boards of the Greater Haverhill Chamber of Commerce and the George C. Wadleigh Foundation. A long-time member and past president of the Exchange Club of Haverhill, Leanne is a lifelong Haverhill Hillie and proud resident. She is passionate about supporting local businesses, strengthening nonprofit organizations, and investing her time and energy in the community she calls home—values that guide both her professional work and personal life.
Brian Edmunds
Principal, Gateway Academy - Haverhill Public Schools
Brian Edmunds has worked in public education for 15 years as a school principal, special education administrator, and Licensed and Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). He currently serves as Principal of Gateway Academy in Haverhill Public Schools, where he leads a dynamic team committed to trauma-informed care, culturally responsive teaching, and high-quality, hands-on learning. Mr. Edmunds is highly skilled in cultivating partnerships with a wide range of community organizations to meet students’ diverse needs and support their academic, social, and emotional growth. Through these strong relationships across the Merrimack Valley, Gateway Academy students engage in a rich variety of community-based learning experiences.
Mr. Edmunds earned his master’s degree in Special Education and Applied Behavior Analysis from the University of Houston–Victoria, graduating at the top of his class in 2013. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Central Florida, where he worked extensively with individuals with disabilities and their families, using Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to support meaningful, person-centered goals.
With experience providing academic support and behavioral services in schools, homes, and community settings, Mr. Edmunds is passionate about helping individuals improve their behavioral health, achieve academic success, and build social-emotional competence. He values collaboration with educators, families, caregivers, community partners, and service providers; however, most of all, he enjoys working directly with young people. His core motivation is to help students remove barriers, feel emotionally safe, and take the academic risks that allow them to discover their full potential.
Mr. Edmunds is a member of the Association for Behavior Analysis International and the Massachusetts School Administrators’ Association. Outside of work, he enjoys nearly every sport, hiking, camping, music, and spending time with friends and family.
Matthew Fitzgerald
President, Orchard Made Products DBA Mann Orchards
Matthew Fitzgerald is the President and Owner of Orchard Made Products Corporation, best known as Mann Orchards, a sixth-generation apple orchard featuring a year-round farmstand and bakery in Methuen, Massachusetts. In his role, Matt oversees all aspects of operations across both Mann Orchards locations, as well as the company’s seasonal ice cream stand. He remains actively involved in the production of Mann’s renowned baked goods, continuing the hands-on approach that has defined the family business for generations.
Raised in the heart of Methuen’s business community, Matt is deeply committed to local engagement and service. He serves on the Board of Directors for Foster Kids of the Merrimack Valley, is an active member of the Methuen Business Alliance, and previously served on the Board of Directors for Central Catholic High School. He is also a proud supporter of numerous nonprofits and community programs throughout Methuen and the surrounding region.
Born and raised on his family’s 148-year-old Methuen farm, Matt now lives with his wife, Katelyn, and their puppy, Peppermint. When he’s not donning an apron in the bakery, he can often be found enjoying a fine cigar, a bottle of wine, and the company of great friends.
Matt graduated from Johnson & Wales University in Rhode Island with an A.S. in Baking & Pastry Arts, a B.A. in Marketing, and an MBA in Global Business Leadership with a concentration in Marketing.
Naydeen Gonzalez-De Jesus
Vice President of Lawrence Campus & Community Relations, Northern Essex Community College
Dr. Naydeen González-De Jesús is a distinguished higher education leader, organizational psychologist, author, speaker, and consultant with more than two decades of experience advancing student success, equity, and institutional transformation. Her career spans senior academic administration, international public diplomacy, strategic organizational change, and community partnership development.
She currently serves as Vice President of Lawrence Campus and Community Relations at Northern Essex Community College (NECC) in Massachusetts, where she champions student achievement and builds strategic partnerships that strengthen educational pathways and economic opportunity across the campus and the broader Merrimack Valley community. She also serves as Interim Executive Director of the Lawrence Partnership, a public-private collaborative focused on strengthening the city’s economy and improving quality of life for its residents.
Previously, Dr. González-De Jesús served as the 13th President of San Antonio College, one of Texas’s largest community colleges, becoming only the second woman to lead the institution while advancing student success, community engagement, and institutional equity.
Her leadership experience also includes serving as Executive Vice President of Student Success at Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC) and in earlier roles at Bergen Community College, Rowan College at Burlington County, and Salem Community College.
Beyond academia, she served as a Public Diplomacy Officer at the U.S. Embassy in Argentina, supporting educational exchange agreements during the 2018 G20 Summit and Fulbright Program partnerships.
Dr. González-De Jesús is the Founder and CEO of Empowered Group Strategies LLC, an Aspen Presidential Fellow, and the recipient of numerous honors, including recognition by the Texas Diversity Council as San Antonio Woman of the Year. She holds a Ph.D. in Industrial-Organizational Psychology from Northcentral University, an M.A. from Rowan University, a B.A. from The Pennsylvania State University, and a certificate in Ministerial Studies and Theology. Her work reflects a deep belief in education as a driver of economic mobility, equity, and community empowerment.
Dr. Laura Gould
Medical Director of Quality and Medical Education, Merrimack Health
Dr. Laura Gould is an Emergency Medicine physician and the Medical Director of Quality, Medical Education, and Population Health at Merrimack Health. She began working as an Emergency Medicine physician at Merrimack Health (previously Lawrence General Hospital) in 2013 and assumed a leadership role in 2020. She oversees the quality programs across the hospital’s three campuses and serves as the Director of Medical Education while continuing to practice clinically in the busy Emergency Department.
In her leadership role, Dr. Gould co-founded Merrimack Health’s Green Team for Environmental Sustainability. Since its inception, the team has completed several initiatives, including eliminating desflurane from the hospital’s anesthetic gas formulary, decommissioning central nitrous oxide piping, developing a food surplus donation program to a local community kitchen, expanding recycling capabilities, and diverting food waste to a waste-to-energy facility. Ongoing projects focus on the hospital’s supply chain, including a Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection grant-funded project to increase the use of reusable beverage containers across hospital departments. In addition, Merrimack Health signed the White House/HHS Sector Climate Pledge in February 2024, and Dr. Gould is actively leading efforts to meet the organization’s pledge commitments.
Dr. Gould lives in Hamilton, MA, with her partner and two sons. Outside the hospital, she enjoys running, skiing, and cheering on her children at their sporting events. The family also enjoys traveling whenever time permits.
Dr. Gould earned her medical degree from the Royal College of Surgeons and completed her Emergency Medicine residency at Brown University. She went on to complete a Sports Medicine Fellowship at Harvard through Boston Children’s Hospital and has been appointed as faculty to the American College of Emergency Medicine.
Alison Gulubicki
Executive Director, Greater Haverhill Foundation, Inc.
Alison J. Gulubicki is the Executive Director of the Greater Haverhill Foundation, Inc., an economic development nonprofit dedicated to advancing the economic, cultural, and historical vitality of the greater Haverhill area. In her role, she oversees key development sites, including Harbor Place. A community builder at heart, Alison prioritizes cultivating strong relationships and strategic partnerships both locally and regionally. Her commitment to the Haverhill community began early in her career and includes service as Vice President of the Greater Haverhill Chamber of Commerce, as well as time in the Massachusetts State Senate and the City of Methuen’s Economic and Community Development Department.
Outside of her professional work, Alison is deeply involved in youth sports across Haverhill, sharing her love of athletics with her two sons, Cole and Adam. She serves as Vice President of the Haverhill Travel Basketball Board of Directors and currently coaches boys’ basketball. She is also Vice President of the Bradford Swim Club Board of Directors. When she’s not on a basketball court in the winter, Alison, her sons, and her partner, Christopher, can often be found skiing in the mountains of New Hampshire. In the summer, they spend their weekends on Newfound Lake—“lake life” is their family’s favorite.
Alison holds a Master of Public Administration from Norwich University, where she specialized in urban and economic development. She earned her undergraduate degree from Colby-Sawyer College.
Ryan Hamilton
State Representative, 15th Essex Massachusetts
Ryan Hamilton is a public servant and community leader representing the 15th Essex District, which includes the cities of Methuen and Haverhill. In his role as State Representative, Ryan works closely with residents, local leaders, and stakeholders to advance policies that strengthen communities, expand opportunity, and ensure responsive, effective government.
Before serving in the Massachusetts House of Representatives, Ryan built a career centered on public service. He previously served as a Methuen City Councilor, an aide to Congresswoman Lori Trahan, and Executive Assistant to former Methuen Mayor Neil Perry. Since taking office, he has focused on pragmatic, results-driven legislation, including efforts to promote financial literacy, support local economic development, and improve quality of life for families across the district. Ryan is known for his collaborative approach and his commitment to working across sectors to deliver meaningful outcomes for constituents.
Ryan is deeply involved in the civic life of the district and currently serves as Chair of Methuen’s 300th Anniversary Celebration. He is a regular presence at community events, neighborhood meetings, and gatherings hosted by local organizations. He believes strongly in stewardship and accountability and approaches leadership with the understanding that trust is earned through listening, accessibility, and follow-through.
Ryan is a 2016 graduate of Methuen High School and a 2020 graduate of the University of Massachusetts Lowell.
A lifelong Massachusetts resident, Ryan lives in Methuen and remains closely connected to the community he represents. Outside of his work at the State House, he values time with family, enjoys playing golf with friends, and remains actively engaged in local causes and events.
Tania Hartford
Founder & Managing Principal, 429 Development LLC
Tania Hartford is the founder and managing principal of 429 Development LLC, a women-owned real estate development and advisory firm specializing in impactful projects in emerging markets, with a focus on mixed-use, small-scale development. Her firm is dedicated to creating developments that enhance local economies and strengthen communities. She is currently working on projects in the Merrimack Valley and Boston.
Prior to founding 429 Development, Tania served as Executive Vice President of Real Estate at MassDevelopment, where she successfully managed the redevelopment of surplus properties and led transformative projects across Massachusetts. Earlier in her tenure at MassDevelopment, she was part of the core team that developed the Transformative Development Initiative (TDI), which has facilitated change in Gateway Cities for over a decade. Tania’s work in private development includes the acquisition, permitting, and development of complex multi-use projects, such as the Davis-Furber Mill in North Andover.
An urban planner at heart, Tania has extensive experience working at the municipal level, engaging community stakeholders to facilitate development and spark innovative programming. She is a member of the American Planning Association/MA APA and the Urban Land Institute (ULI), serving on the Women’s Leadership Initiative Council and as an inaugural member of the Small Scale Development Council. In her community, she serves on the board of Essex County Habitat for Humanity and previously served on the Newburyport Planning Board. She was also a long-time volunteer with the Girl Scouts of Eastern Massachusetts.
Originally from Michigan, Tania lives in Newburyport with her husband, Derek, and their three children—Sophia, Sam, and Theo. Sophia is a sophomore at George Washington University, and Sam is a freshman at Syracuse University. The family enjoys exploring new places and has visited all 50 U.S. states.
Tania holds a master’s degree in Urban and Social Policy and Planning from Tufts University and a bachelor’s degree in International Relations/Environmental Policy from Michigan State University. She is a certified member of the American Institute for Certified Planners (AICP).
Joseph Hungler
Executive Director, Boys & Girls Club of Greater Lowell
Joe is a dedicated nonprofit leader, youth advocate, and community ambassador with over 30 years of experience in youth development. As Executive Director of the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Lowell (BGCGL) for 15 years, he has worked to transform the lives of young people by providing opportunities, resources, and a strong support system—all in pursuit of the Club’s bold vision to end generational poverty.
A former Club member, Joe’s passion for the Boys & Girls Club movement is deeply personal. Under his leadership, BGCGL has expanded its reach and impact in profound ways. For example, the forthcoming Smith Family Teen Center will be a dynamic, state-of-the-art facility designed to empower teens with leadership opportunities, academic support, and workforce development programs that prepare them for success beyond high school.
Joe has also introduced innovative programs in STEM, the arts, leadership, workforce development, and cultural enrichment. He has driven significant growth in funding and community partnerships that strengthen the Club’s life-changing support for Lowell’s youth. His contributions to the nonprofit sector have earned him recognition for his dedication to empowering young people, fostering professional development, and driving organizational growth. Throughout his career, he has played a pivotal role in advancing initiatives that create pathways for success and break cycles of generational poverty.
A Lowell resident, Joe enjoys spending time with his family, particularly conspiring with his wife, Bonnie, to share new experiences and foster a spirit of community and service with their daughter. He finds his greatest joy in seeing young people realize their strength, potential, and ability to shape their futures.
Joe received his B.S. in Mathematics from the University of Vermont and his Master’s in Human Resources Development from Clemson University.
Douglas Jasalavich
Director of Support Services, Lowell General Hospital Tufts Medicine
Douglas Jasalavich is the Director of Support Services at Lowell General Hospital, a member of Tufts Medicine. Doug has spent more than 22 years in the healthcare sector, working in various hospitality and support services leadership roles. Fifteen of those years were with Sodexo, a support services management company, where he specialized in the integration and optimization of non-clinical services to drive staff development, technology adoption, and improved clinical outcomes within healthcare operations.
Raised in New Hampshire, Doug currently lives in Nashua, New Hampshire, with his wife, Sarah. When he is not managing hospital operations, Doug enjoys golfing, exercising, and supporting his wife’s small business at farmers markets and local events during the summer months.
Doug graduated from the University of New Hampshire with a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration. He is a respected mentor within the healthcare hospitality industry in Southern New Hampshire and Massachusetts, particularly for emerging frontline leaders.
Zandra Kelley, MD
President & CEO, Greater Lawrence Family Health Center
Zandra Kelley, M.D. is a graduate of the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine and the Lawrence Family Medicine Residency at the Greater Lawrence Family Health Center (GLFHC). For over two decades, she has dedicated her career to the GLFHC, where she has served in numerous leadership roles including Chief Medical Officer, Chief of Family Medicine at Lawrence General Hospital, and Vice President of Clinical Affairs for the Merrimack Valley ACO.
On September 1, 2025, Dr. Kelley stepped into the role of Chief Executive Officer at GLFHC, continuing her lifelong commitment to community health. She remains a practicing primary care physician and a passionate faculty member of the Lawrence Family Medicine Residency, mentoring the next generation of family doctors.
GLFHC has been more than a workplace—it has been her professional home and extended family. Serving the vibrant and resilient community of Greater Lawrence alongside dedicated, compassionate colleagues has been one of the greatest joys of her career. Dr. Kelley considers it a profound honor to lead and serve at a Federally Qualified Community Health Center, where mission-driven care and community connection are at the heart of everything.
Tamar Kotelchuck
Vice President for Community Development, Federal Reserve Bank of Boston
Tamar Kotelchuck is Vice President for Community Development at the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston, where she leads efforts to strengthen the economies of Gateway Cities and low-income rural areas across New England. She spearheaded the development of the Working Cities and Working Communities Challenge, grant competitions that encourage collaboration around community and economic development.
Prior to joining the Fed in 2012, Tamar co-founded Lawrence CommunityWorks, where she worked in real estate development—building community spaces, affordable housing, and parks—as well as in policy and neighborhood planning. She currently serves on the boards of Groundwork Lawrence and Esperanza Academy and volunteers with Sueños Basketball. She is a former Chair of the Lawrence Planning Board.
Originally from New York City, Tamar has lived in Lawrence for more than 25 years with her husband and her daughter, Julia, who is a senior in high school. In her free time, she organizes and attends gatherings with friends and family, reads, cooks, and enjoys walks in the woods.
Tamar holds a Master’s in City Planning from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and is fluent in Spanish.
Forrest Lennhoff
President & Owner, Lennhoff Properties
Forrest Lennhoff is the Founder and President of Lennhoff Properties, a growing property management company providing hands-off management services to rental property owners throughout Massachusetts and New Hampshire. Before starting Lennhoff Properties with his wife Taylor, Forrest worked as a Journeyman Electrician both independently and for an electrical contractor. In 2019 he began his real estate career by purchasing a four-unit property, adding value through improvements, and leveraging a cash-out refinance before later selling for a profit. This same value-add approach has allowed him to grow his personal portfolio to more than 300 rental units and management company portfolio to more than 900 units. This firsthand experience as both an owner and operator has allowed Forrest to excel in the property management industry, as clients value his understanding of asset performance and long-term growth. He is active in his community by partnering with local nonprofits to provide housing to the people they serve, receiving a “Community Partners in Housing” award from the Greater Lawrence Community Action Council in 2025.
Forrest grew up in North Andover and now lives in Merrimac with his wife Taylor and children, Rory and Connor. He enjoys spending time outdoors and likes to ride his road bike, boat on the Merrimack, and ski.
Forrest holds many licenses including journeyman electrician, pesticide applicator, and real estate salesperson licenses. He graduated from North Andover High School in 2014 before entering the trades.
Dahianara Liranzo
Sr. Human Resources Professional, Kinetic Smiles Inc / Shaws StarMarket
Dahianara Liranzo is a seasoned human resources leader with more than 25 years of experience driving business performance, talent optimization, and organizational effectiveness through strategic, people-centered initiatives. Born in Santiago de los Caballeros, Dominican Republic, she immigrated to the United States in the early 1980s and was raised in Lawrence, Massachusetts—an experience that shaped her resilience, adaptability, and commitment to inclusive leadership.
She holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Management from Hesser College and an MBA from Cambridge College. Throughout her career, Dahianara has held senior HR roles at organizations including Wyndham International, The Home Depot, Avis Budget Group, UG2, and Albertsons Companies. She currently serves as Head of Human Resources for the Shaw’s & Star Market Supply Chain division, partnering with senior leaders to align workforce strategy with operational excellence.
Dahianara’s leadership is informed by both professional expertise and lived experience. As the mother of a child with developmental and physical disabilities, she has navigated complex systems while advocating for equitable access and support—shaping her commitment to inclusive, human-centered workplaces where individuals of all abilities can succeed.
Her expertise includes strategic HR leadership, talent and leadership development, organizational design, labor relations, diversity and inclusion, change management, and employee experience.
Beyond her corporate role, Dahianara is the co-founder of Kinetic Smiles, Inc., a Lawrence-based nonprofit dedicated to advancing health, wellness, and social connection through movement. Through free, accessible programming, Kinetic Smiles removes barriers to fitness, promotes well-being, and fosters belonging across the community.
A devoted wife and mother, Dahianara has been married to her husband, Roberto, for more than 20 years and is the proud mother of three—Adonis, Kamilah, and Aaron. Her family remains her north star, grounding her leadership in grit, compassion, and purpose.
Eunice Lopez
Chief Program Officer and Deputy Director, Lawrence CommunityWorks
Eunice Lopez serves as Chief Program Officer and Deputy Director of Lawrence CommunityWorks, a nonprofit community development corporation based in Lawrence, Massachusetts. In this role, she oversees all programmatic functions, including Asset Building initiatives, Workforce Development, Atrius Youth as Health Care Change Agents, and the Movement City youth network, while also leading the organization’s data quality and evaluation efforts. With more than 15 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, Eunice brings deep expertise in housing and homelessness prevention.
She is actively engaged in the broader community, serving on multiple advisory boards and coalitions. Eunice is also an active mentor with NeighborWorks America, supporting middle managers in the Caribbean and the U.S. Virgin Islands. In addition, she serves on the Cummings Foundation Site Visit Committee, where she visits grantees and learns firsthand about the impactful work being done by nonprofit organizations throughout Essex County.
Of Puerto Rican and Cuban heritage, Eunice resides in Methuen with her domestic partner, Jamill Martinez, and her artistically inclined daughter, Maya Lopez. Outside of her professional responsibilities, she is a slam poet who enjoys writing and performing at open mic events. A self-proclaimed food critic, Eunice also loves exploring new restaurants and cuisines whenever possible.
Eunice began her academic journey at UMass Boston studying nursing; however, a life-altering diagnosis led her to pivot her career path. She has since continued her education within her field, earning national certifications as an Occupancy Specialist and Property Manager. She is currently pursuing certification in affordable housing development and plans to enroll in an accounting degree program in the coming year.
Paul Magliocchetti
Attorney and Managing Partner, Sheehan, Schiavoni, Jutras, and Magliocchetti, LLP
Paul A. Magliocchetti is an attorney and Managing Partner at the firm of Sheehan, Schiavoni, Jutras, and Magliocchetti, LLP, one of the oldest law firms in Haverhill. Paul specializes in Residential and Commercial Real Estate Transactions, Zoning and Permitting, Estate Planning and Civil Litigation. Paul assists individuals and business clients throughout the North Shore and Southern New Hampshire. Before practicing law, Paul, together with his father Angelo, owned and operated Kay Machine Company, specializing in manufacturing parts and machinery for advanced manufacturing systems used in the shoe industry and semiconductor manufacturing. He spent 16 Years as an elected member of the Haverhill School Committee, and he continues to serve his community as an officer and director on the Boards of several nonprofits in Haverhill and the Merrimack Valley.
Paul is a first generation American, and the son of Italian immigrants, Angelo and Laura Magliocchetti. He lives in Haverhill with his wife Julie and three children, Massimo, Isabella, and Lucas. When he is not working at the law office or serving in the community, Paul likes to work out, cycle, ski, golf and spend as much time as possible on his boat. Above all, he enjoys time with his family.
Paul graduated from College of the Holy Cross and Suffolk University Law School. He is currently the Vice President of the Haverhill Bar Association, is a certified court conciliator. This past summer, Paul was asked to lead a new local theater company, Merrimack Valley Stageworks, an organization that he is very excited about.
Vilma Martinez Dominguez
Executive Director & CEO, Greater Lawrence Community Action Council (GLCAC)
Vilma is a dedicated social justice advocate and experienced leader with a strong background in community development. As Executive Director & CEO of the Greater Lawrence Community Action Council, Inc. (GLCAC), she leverages her extensive experience to drive meaningful change.
Previously, Vilma served as GLCAC’s Chief Operations Officer and as Community Development Director for the City of Lawrence, where she managed initiatives in economic development, housing, and homelessness prevention. She also coordinated the Lawrence Mayor’s Health Task Force, helping it grow into a coalition focused on health equity.
Her leadership at GLCAC has emphasized social justice and equity, culminating in her appointment as Chief Executive Director in October 2023. Vilma ran for Mayor of Lawrence in 2021, receiving significant endorsements, and has been actively involved in coalitions promoting social justice, gender equity, and health equity, including serving on the Essex County Commission on the Status of Women and the Massachusetts Public Health Association’s Public Health Council.
Currently, Vilma serves on the boards of Merrimack Health System (formerly Lawrence General Hospital) and The Lawrence Partnership, contributing to diversity and strategic initiatives. She joined The Lawrence Partnership Board in 2023 and has actively participated in Think Tank sessions to help establish strategic priorities aligned with its mission of fostering economic development and improving quality of life for Lawrence residents. She also served on the MassHire Merrimack Valley Workforce Board until July 2025, supporting workforce development and career center services.
Zenzo Matoga
Pastor, Impact Church
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Niorka Méndez-Almonte
Deputy Administrator, Merrimack Valley Regional Transit Authority
Niorka Méndez is the Deputy Administrator at Merrimack Valley Transit (MeVa), where she partners with the Administrator to oversee a fare-free regional public transportation system serving 16 municipalities in the Merrimack Valley. In her role, Niorka supports agency operations, advances strategic initiatives, oversees marketing and communications, and leads operational improvements focused on efficiency, equity, and the rider experience.
Niorka brings more than 10 years of leadership experience in public transportation. Before becoming Deputy Administrator, she served as MeVa’s Chief Communications Officer and Director of Marketing & Communications. In these roles, she directed all external communications, public relations, and media outreach; managed high-visibility press and crisis communications; and led the bilingual rebranding from MVRTA to MeVa Transit. Her work helped increase ridership above pre-pandemic levels and strengthened public trust across diverse communities.
She created the systemwide “Let’s Go / ¡Vamos!” bilingual campaign, co-led MeVa’s transition to a fare-free transit system, and wrote and managed a MassDOT grant that funded the installation of 18 bus shelters in Lawrence and Amesbury. Niorka regularly represents MeVa in legislative meetings and regional and out-of-state transit coalitions, contributing to policy discussions on fare equity, accessibility, and innovation.
Earlier in her career, Niorka worked as a Transit Bus Operator, gaining firsthand insight into rider needs, safety, and daily system operations—experience that continues to inform her leadership approach. She is bilingual in English and Spanish.
Born and raised in the Dominican Republic, Niorka lives in Lawrence, Massachusetts, with her two children. Outside of work, she values time with family and actively supports her children’s educational goals.
Niorka holds a Master’s degree in Corporate Finance from the Instituto Tecnológico de Santo Domingo and a Bachelor of Arts in Marketing from Universidad Católica Santo Domingo.
Jaime Moody
Middle School Principal, Lowell Public Schools
Ms. Jaime Moody has served as an educator for 26 years, bringing extensive experience from both urban and suburban districts. The foundation of her career was built in a large urban district, where she excelled as a middle school teacher and emerging leader. For the past seven years, she has proudly served Lowell Public Schools as Assistant Principal and now Principal of Butler Middle School, where her instructional leadership, deep pedagogical knowledge, and unwavering commitment to community continue to shape a thriving school culture.
Ms. Moody began her educational journey at Boston University’s School of Education, earning her undergraduate degree in Secondary Education. She went on to complete a Master’s in Teaching & Research at Northeastern University and later earned an Educational Leadership Certificate from Bridgewater State University. Her dedication to students and families has been consistently recognized, earning her the 2003 Governor’s Neighborhood Star Award, the 2005 Teacher of the Year Award, acceptance into the DESE Influence 100 Work Group, and the honor of being named a 2025 National LifeChanger.
As principal, Ms. Moody has driven meaningful, measurable improvement. Within a year, Butler Middle School experienced increases in student retention, staff retention, community engagement, and academic achievement. Her leadership centers on uplifting the community, amplifying student voice, and forging strong partnerships with families. She champions equitable access to high-quality instruction and has played a key role in diversifying the professional staff to reflect and fully support the students they serve.
Ms. Moody remains deeply committed to Butler Middle School’s long-standing legacy of scholarship, service, and spirit—a legacy that has shaped the community for more than 59 years. She believes profoundly in the reciprocal relationship between a school and its community, where each strengthens, sustains, and elevates the other. Through this lens, she continues to lead with purpose, clarity, and heart, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to thrive.
Amy Moran Lowe
Director of Grants and Programs, Essex County Community Foundation
Amy Moran Lowe serves as Director of Grants and Programs at the Essex County Community Foundation (ECCF), where she recently launched two groundbreaking initiatives to stand with the community during these challenging times. At ECCF, Amy leads numerous investments in education and youth development, food access, and other social services that have a deep impact in the Merrimack Valley and across Essex County.
Raised by a social worker and an AME minister, Amy continues her family’s legacy by dedicating her work to serving others. She has focused her career on mobilizing resources and strengthening opportunities for people facing systemic barriers. Her experience includes stewarding several million dollars in grants for communities in need, teaching English to refugee teens in Boston, and overseeing data-driven analyses of disparities faced by Black and brown students. With more than 20 years of experience in the public and nonprofit sectors, Amy’s work has ranged from influencing national policy priorities to making the dream of college possible for low-income students.
Most recently, Amy served as Senior Vice President of Strategy and Engagement at the Stephen Phillips Memorial Scholarship Fund in Salem, Massachusetts, and as Assistant Director for Education, Workforce, and Income Security issues at the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO). At GAO, she was also certified as an adjunct faculty member of the organization’s Learning Center, where she specialized in facilitating innovative DEI programming. Building on her experience designing and implementing transformative programs in the social sector, Amy launched her own consultancy, First Avenue Strategy Consulting, in 2024.
Outside of work, Amy enjoys exploring Crane’s Beach and Appleton Farms with her family in Ipswich and letting loose during dance class at High Street Studios. She and her husband, Don, have two beautiful boys, a productive-but-messy vegetable garden, and a dream of traveling more often. Amy holds a Master of Public Policy from the Harvard Kennedy School of Government, where she was a Rappaport Institute Fellow, and a bachelor’s degree in Sociology and Linguistics from Harvard College.
Ciaran Nagle
Co-Owner / COO, Foundation Kitchen LLC
Ciaran Nagle has been a pioneer in the shared kitchen industry for many years, running another kitchen for two years before launching Foundation Kitchen in 2015.
He is a ServSafe proctor and an expert in food safety and standard operating procedures. He is a sought-after panelist and speaker on these topics and also consults with both member and non-member food companies.
Prior to founding Foundation Kitchen, he ran an event production company in Dublin, Ireland, for 20 years and also launched the globally successful The Three Irish Tenors.
When not at the Foundation Kitchen, he can be found singing Irish tunes or trail running through the forest.
Maricelis Ortiz
Chief Executive Officer, YWCA Northeastern MA
Maricelis Ortiz is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the YWCA Northeastern Massachusetts, where she has dedicated 28 years of service. Throughout her tenure, she has held a wide range of leadership roles and contributed her expertise to several boards, including the Red Cross Merrimack Valley, Esperanza Academy, the LMCC Steering Committee, and currently the YWCA Newburyport. For 18 years, she also led a nonprofit baseball league—an experience she cherished, particularly the years she spent coaching.
A bilingual and bicultural leader, Maricelis is a well-known and trusted presence within the community. She is deeply committed to fostering collaborative, cross-sector partnerships that strengthen and advance the mission of the YWCA.
Born in Puerto Rico, Maricelis is a proud mother of four—three sons and one daughter, ages 26, 23, 17, and 15—and of Nina, her energetic 5-year-old pit bull. She is married to her high school sweetheart, now a Lawrence firefighter. A Methuen resident with strong ties to Lawrence, where she grew up and attended school, Maricelis remains deeply connected to the community that shaped her.
Maricelis holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Massachusetts Lowell and a master’s degree in Nonprofit Management and Philanthropy from Bay Path University, which she completed in 2022 after more than 25 years serving the Greater Lawrence community. With over three decades of experience supporting women and families, she brings extensive expertise in Early Education and Out-of-School-Time programming to her work. Today, she leads the YWCA with the same passion, dedication, and community-centered vision that has defined her career.
In her free time, Maricelis enjoys traveling with family and friends. She is currently pursuing a personal goal: visiting all 50 states with her travel group.
Deborah Putnam
Managing Director, Stevens Foundation
Deb is the Managing Director of the Stevens Foundation, a family foundation dedicated to improving the quality of life for residents of Lawrence and the surrounding communities. After more than 35 years working in Boston nonprofit organizations, she is privileged to continue the legacy of her ancestors by helping make the world more just and equitable.
Deb has deep experience in nonprofit program evaluation, strategic planning, and program development and management, with a strong commitment to inclusion and belonging. She has taught graduate courses at the Boston University School of Social Work and is an experienced presenter and facilitator. Deb has served on the boards of several nonprofits and currently serves on the board of the Lake Sunapee Protective Association.
Deb lives in Boston with her wife and their rescued dog, Dugan. Their two grown children have flown the coop. When not working, Deb enjoys being outdoors; swimming, hiking, and winter sports; as well as a good book or movie and listening to classical, folk, and jazz music. Deb holds an MSW and an MPH from Boston University.
Raquel Quezada
Founder, Fundación Cambiando el Mundo de Personas con Discapacidad (CEMDPCD)
Raquel Quezada is a leader, author, broadcaster, and advocate for the Hispanic and disability communities in the United States. Born in the Dominican Republic, she moved to the U.S. at 24 to pursue her passion for media and communication.
She began her career in local radio after training at the Otto Rivera National Broadcasting School, becoming an influential broadcaster, producer, and host. After settling in Massachusetts, she expanded her professional and academic background by training as a medical assistant and earning a degree in psychology.
In 2017, Raquel launched her own radio and television program, creating a platform to address critical social issues and amplify underrepresented voices. In 2018, she founded the Fundación Cambiando el Mundo de Personas con Discapacidad (CEMDPCD), a nonprofit improving the quality of life for individuals with disabilities and their families through education, advocacy, and community programs.
Raquel serves as Chairperson of the Massachusetts Developmental Disabilities Council (MDDC) and has contributed to advisory boards and initiatives related to child welfare, family services, and disability advocacy. She is the author of nine books on disability awareness, inclusion, special education rights, and family empowerment, and continues her academic studies at UMass.
Her work has earned international recognition from President Luis Abinader of the Dominican Republic, as well as numerous awards across Boston and Massachusetts for her advocacy, media leadership, and community service.
Geetha Ramani
Vice President for Business Development, MassDevelopment
Geetha serves as Vice President for Business Development at MassDevelopment, where she leads engagement with businesses, nonprofits, and municipalities in the Northeast region to identify financing solutions that drive deeper economic development across the Commonwealth. She collaborates with municipal partners to activate underused assets and works with nonprofits and businesses to explore MassDevelopment grant, lending, and bond-financing programs that support growth. Her work has helped nonprofits expand into new facilities, enabled small businesses to secure equipment and real estate loans, and supported mixed-use developments—outcomes that yield tangible local impact.
Before joining MassDevelopment, Geetha held a range of roles rooted in economic development. She served as an Economist at the U.S. Department of the Treasury, first analyzing global country risk with a focus on Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, and later shaping policies and programs for multilateral development banks. She also consulted for the World Bank on public-private infrastructure financing in Washington, D.C., and evaluated women-focused credit programs in India, Indonesia, and Haiti.
Geetha holds a Master of Arts in International Economics and Southeast Asian Studies from the Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies and a Bachelor of Arts in Economics, Business, and French from the University of Pittsburgh. She completed a one-year Fulbright Fellowship in India, deepening her interest in impact evaluation of microfinance.
Geetha serves on the Board of The Women’s Fund of Essex County, is a Commissioner on the Essex County Commission on the Status of Women, and volunteers with A Better Chance Andover. She resides in Andover with her husband and two children and enjoys spending time in nature through biking, gardening, and skiing.
Eddie Rosa
Deputy Director, Groundwork Lawrence
Eddie Rosa is the Deputy Director of Groundwork Lawrence, where he oversees program staff and manages daily organizational operations. He joined Groundwork Lawrence in September 2016, bringing more than a decade of experience in the human services field. Additionally being an organizer, provided the skills to really meet people where they are and help their voices be heard in spaces they may not normally get a seat at the table.
A lifelong resident of Lawrence, Eddie is deeply committed to strengthening the community in which he was raised. He has served on—and in several cases chaired—multiple boards, commissions, and authorities, contributing his leadership and local expertise. Eddie is a graduate of the Institute for Nonprofit Practice’s Certificate Program in Nonprofit Management and Leadership and Community InRoads' Cultural Inclusion Program for Nonprofit Board Governance.
Outside of his professional work, Eddie enjoys writing, playing music, and participating in community-based activities.
Brenna Schneider
Chief Social Innovation Officer, Ascentria Care Alliance
Brenna Schneider is the Chief Social Innovation Officer at Ascentria Care Alliance, where she leads social enterprise strategy and develops innovative solutions that address systemic social and economic challenges across New England. A social entrepreneur with more than 15 years of experience, she focuses on translating ideas into high-impact solutions that improve the well-being of individuals, families, and communities facing systemic barriers.
She actively promotes inclusive entrepreneurship and supports emerging founders through her work as a lecturer and startup coach with Our Generation Speaks, as well as through advisory roles with organizations such as The Possible Zone and FORGE.
Brenna’s entrepreneurial roots are deeply tied to the Merrimack Valley, where she was part of EforAll’s first accelerator cohort. She founded 99Degrees, a U.S. manufacturing company, in Lawrence. Over 12 years, she grew 99Degrees from a concept into a company that employed more than 400 people and produced apparel and wearable technologies for leading global brands. Its model of employer-led economic mobility earned recognition from MIT’s Inclusive Innovation Challenge, MIT Solve, and MassChallenge.
Brenna holds a BA in International Studies and Economics from Washington College and an MBA in Social Impact Management from the Heller School at Brandeis University.
While she now lives in southern New Hampshire with her husband, Mike, two teenage stepsons, and her six-year-old son, she maintains strong ties to the Merrimack Valley and is an active member of North Parish UU Church in North Andover. She enjoys backpacking, cycling, and her meditation practice.
Neily Soto
Founder & Principal, PRG, LLC; Methuen City Council
Neily Soto is the founder of PRG, LLC, a real estate consulting and brokerage firm working with homeowners, first-time buyers, investors, and small businesses across Massachusetts and New Hampshire to expand access to housing and economic opportunity. Before starting PRG, Neily spent more than 23 years in residential and commercial real estate, helping families and entrepreneurs navigate transactions, financing, and market cycles. She played a key role in developing the Down Payment Assistance Program in the City of Lawrence and taught the Interise curriculum to support minority-owned businesses. During the Great Recession, Neily helped over 400 families avoid foreclosure through loan modifications and short sales. In addition to her real estate work, Neily serves as Chair of the Methuen City Council, the first Latina to hold the position. She also chairs the Unaccepted Ways Committee and serves on the Housing and Economic Development Committees, where she helps shape housing, infrastructure, and growth policy.
Originally from a Dominican immigrant family, she lives in Methuen with her husband and their four children. In her free time, Neily enjoys mentoring, community engagement, writing, and traveling with her family.
Neily earned an Associate’s Degree in Business from Middlesex Community College and is the bestselling author of Breaking the Glass Ceiling. She has completed extensive professional training in real estate, housing finance, business development, and leadership.
Jay Stephens
President & CEO, Lowell Five Bank
Jay Stephens is President and Chief Executive Officer of Lowell Five Bank. Since joining the bank in 2014 as Chief Financial Officer, Jay has played a key role in its financial leadership and strategic direction, culminating in his promotion to CEO in 2023.
Jay began his professional career as a CPA in public accounting, where he audited and consulted with financial services companies throughout the Northeast. He is a graduate of the University of Massachusetts Amherst.
Deeply committed to the Merrimack Valley community, Jay serves on the boards of the Lowell Plan, the Greater Lowell Community Foundation, and the Northern Essex Community College Foundation. He lives in North Andover with his wife and son.
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Andrew (Andy) Tarsy
Managing Director, DSG Koya Partners
Andy’s career and volunteer pursuits have spanned nonprofit, business, and public-sector roles as an advocate, educator, and executive. His passion lies in empowering and connecting leaders to drive positive social and economic change.
As a Managing Director with the search and consulting firm DSG Koya Partners, Andy partners with mission-driven organizations to navigate leadership transitions and address strategic challenges.
Andy served as a Trial Attorney in the Civil Rights Division of the U.S. Department of Justice and later as Executive Director of the New England Anti-Defamation League. He was also a co-founder and the first Executive Director of the Alliance for Business Leadership. Subsequently, Andy served as President of the Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the United States Senate. In addition, he co-created two boutique consultancies focused on social impact and DEI strategy, including Conscious Customers LLC, which helped institutional clients better include Black-, Latin-, and women-owned and -led businesses in their purchasing practices.
Andy is an adjunct lecturer at Boston University’s Questrom School of Business and Merrimack College. He is a longtime strategic advisor to the Business Equity Initiative at Nectar Community Investments, a Trustee of the Benjamin Franklin Cummings Institute of Technology, and a docent at the New England Holocaust Memorial in Boston. His contributions to strengthening organizations and communities have been recognized with the NAACP’s Kivie Kaplan Humanitarian Award and Jewish Family Services of MetroWest’s Max Michaelson Humanitarian Award.
Andy is a graduate of Boston’s Roxbury Latin School and Cornell University’s College of Arts and Sciences. He earned a J.D. with honors from The George Washington University Law School. Andy, his wife, and their two children (ages 9 and 13) have lived in North Andover for five years. They can often be found at Acting Out in Lawrence or walking their dog on the many beautiful trails of the Merrimack Valley.
Hannah Tello
Director of Special Projects & Evaluation, Greater Lowell Health Alliance of CHNA10
Hannah Tello is the Director of Projects and Evaluation for the Greater Lowell Health Alliance, where she leads major community health initiatives with more than 200 public- and private-sector partners across the region. In this role, she serves as the primary author of the Greater Lowell Community Health Needs Assessment and Community Health Improvement Plan, guiding collaborative, data-driven processes that inform public health priorities for dozens of partner organizations. Hannah oversees a diverse portfolio of projects focused on health equity, data accessibility, and community-centered evaluation. Her work has included implementation leadership for the NIH-funded HEALing Communities Study to reduce opioid overdose deaths, as well as multiple federal and state initiatives aimed at addressing COVID-19 morbidity and vaccination disparities.
Before joining the Alliance, she served as the Coordinator for Teen Pregnancy Prevention at Lowell Community Health Center, where she oversaw the delivery of evidence-based comprehensive health education to thousands of Lowell youth. She has been an active leader in regional public health coalitions, including co-chairing the Maternal and Child Health Task Force and helping to found the Breastfeeding Working Group. She also serves on several advisory boards, including the Massachusetts Department of Public Health's (DPH) Public Health Data Warehouse Community Advisory Board, the UMass Lowell Center for Population Health Board, and Lowell General Hospital’s Women’s Health Cabinet.
Hannah lives in Tyngsborough with her husband, Shawn, and their two children, Pax (14) and Ellie (3). In her free time, she enjoys treasure hunting for antique uranium and Depression glass or vintage Pyrex. She is also a fan of fossils, bones, and other oddities.
Hannah holds a BA in English from Mount Holyoke College; an MEd in Curriculum and Instruction, an MA in Community Psychology, and a PhD in Applied Psychology and Prevention Science from the University of Massachusetts Lowell.
Larissa Thurston
President & CEO, Jeanne D'Arc Credit Union
Larissa C. Thurston is the President & Chief Executive Officer at Jeanne D’Arc Credit Union. Before joining Jeanne D’Arc, she was the President & Chief Executive Officer of St. Mary’s Credit Union in Marlborough, MA. She has over 25 years of financial services experience in providing vision, leadership, and a proven track record of delivering results, driving innovation, and managing risk.
Larissa is passionate about innovation and making a difference in the community. She is committed to providing local youth with opportunities and mentorship that foster lifelong success and embracing the Credit Union’s mission of having a Heart to Serve.
Larissa currently serves on the boards of the Lowell Plan, Inc., The Lawrence Partnership, and Octant Business Services, LLC, and on the Supervisory and Audit Committee of Eastern Corporate Federal Credit Union and Vertifi Software, LLC.
Larissa earned her Master of Business Administration and Bachelor of Science in Accounting & Finance, with a minor in IT/CIS from Southern New Hampshire University. She has continued her professional education by receiving an Executive Leadership Certificate through Wharton Executive Education, graduating from the ABA Stonier Graduate School of Banking, and completing the ABA’s Financial Managers School. She lives in Bolton, Massachusetts, with her husband, daughter, and their two dogs.
Lisbeth Valdez
Program Director, Community Action, Inc.
Lisbeth Valdez currently serves as the Program Director for Community Action, Inc.’s Make It Haverhill initiative, where she leads workforce development, digital training, and community engagement programs serving residents of Haverhill and the broader Merrimack Valley. She oversees program strategy, cross-sector partnerships, data reporting, and grant management, and manages a public-facing service hub that supports more than 650 residents annually in advancing their education, employment, and digital skills. Lisbeth supervises a cross-functional team, coordinates over 20 volunteers, and collaborates closely with schools, state agencies, and local employers to reduce barriers to economic mobility and strengthen community access to opportunity.
Her commitment to public service began during a research fellowship at The Washington Center in Washington, D.C., where she conducted policy research on human trafficking. She later supported high school students in Lawrence by enhancing college and career readiness and co-developing after-school programming, before advancing community education and family engagement initiatives at Merrimack College’s Hands to Help Center. Lisbeth also contributes in advisory and leadership capacities on regional committees focused on digital equity, community inclusion, and cross-sector collaboration. She remains dedicated to expanding equitable pathways to education, digital access, and economic mobility across the region.
Lisbeth lives in Lawrence, MA, with her husband, Andres, and their three children. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, exploring new restaurants, watching her favorite shows, and unwinding with music, conversation, and community.
She holds a Master of Public Administration from Merrimack College and a BA from the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth, where she majored in Political Science with a concentration in International Relations and minored in Women and Gender Studies.
Kristina Wood
Executive Director, It Kicks! Foundation
Kristina Wood is the Executive Director of the It Kicks! Foundation, a family foundation focused on youth development and providing educational opportunities for people of all ages in Massachusetts and Southern New Hampshire. The foundation’s name, “It Kicks!,” honors the iconic kicking donkey that has been part of the Haffner family logo since 1933. Prior to her current role, Kristina worked at the investment management firm Cambridge Associates for 11 years. In her most recent role there, she oversaw the U.S. client service team for the firm’s Private Client Practice, managing more than 15 people across four offices nationwide.
Originally from Andover, Kristina lives in Boston with her husband, John, their two children, Madeline and Cameron, and their dog, Holly. She enjoys exploring new restaurants around the city and traveling. An active and curious learner, she plays tennis, has recently taken up mahjong, and enjoys spending time outdoors with her family—whether at the beach or swimming.
Kristina graduated from the University of Maryland with a Bachelor of Science in Business.
Eunice Zeigler
Vice President of Strategic Planning and Administration, Emmaus Inc.; Mass Governors Council
Eunice D. Zeigler is the Vice President of Strategic Planning and Administration at Emmaus Inc., a nonprofit agency, located in Haverhill, that provides shelter and affordable housing opportunities to individuals and families experiencing homelessness. In her current role, she leverages her skills in organizational management, philanthropy, staff development, and capital planning while overseeing resource development and community partnerships for the agency. Throughout her career, she has led capacity building at the YWCA Northeastern Massachusetts, the City of Haverhill and the Lowell Housing Authority. Eunice has also dedicated six years of public service on the Methuen City Council, in which she served as Vice Chair and subsequently the youngest female and the first women of color to serve as Chair. In 2024, Eunice became the first woman of color to be elected to the Governor’s Council. She represents District 5, consisting of 36 cities and towns across the Merrimack Valley, Middlesex county and the Northshore regions. As a Governor’s Councillor, Eunice approves the appointment of judges, clerk magistrates and provides advice and consent on pardons and commutations.
Eunice lives in Methuen with her husband Jake and son Samuel. When she is not leading executive strategy sessions or serving in the community, she likes to sing, write and perform music with her band Troubadour Soul. Eunice is a self-declared food enthusiast who also enjoys hiking and traveling with her family.
Eunice graduated from University of Massachusetts Lowell with a BA in Political Science and Masters in Economic and Social Development of Regions.