7.0
LEADS
Fellows
Traci Almeida, PhD
Senior Director of Academic Partnerships, University of Massachusetts Dartmouth
Traci Almeida serves as the Senior Director of Academic Partnerships and the University Licensure Officer at UMass Dartmouth. In her role, she leads the Office of Academic Partnerships, which focuses on creating and enhancing educational pathways to UMass Dartmouth through Early College Programs, Dual Enrollment, and Transfer Pathways. As University Licensure Officer, she also coordinates the university’s innovative teacher and leadership preparation programs.
Traci works closely with K-12 schools, the Department of Early and Secondary Education (DESE), community colleges, and various local partners, ensuring students receive the support they need at every stage of their academic journey.
Her career in education began as an MCAS Math and Algebra I teacher in Westport and Fall River Public Schools. In 2003, she joined UMass Dartmouth as an academic advisor and program coordinator, with a mission to increase access to higher education for SouthCoast residents.
Beyond her professional contributions, Traci is a dedicated community leader. She has served as the Chair of the Education Committee for the Mayor’s transition team, as a member of the Special Charter Review Committee, and currently serves on the School Council at BMC Durfee High School. Traci is also an active participant in the Commonwealth Teacher Education Consortium (COMTEC).
A lifelong resident of Fall River, Massachusetts, and a proud graduate of BMC Durfee High School, Traci is committed to both her community and education. She and her partner Steven have three daughters: Alexis, Chelsie, and Breanna. Outside of her professional life, Traci enjoys yoga, long days at the beach, reading, and spending quality time with family and friends.
Traci holds a BS in Business Management from Johnson & Wales University, a BA and MA in Psychology, and a PhD in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies from UMass Dartmouth.
Carl Alves
President and CEO, PAACA Recovery Support Center
Carl J. Alves has dedicated his life to community service and advocacy. For over 30 years, he has served as President and CEO of Positive Action Against Chemical Addiction, Inc. (PAACA) in New Bedford, where he has grown the organization's services to address not only substance use and behavioral health services but also addressing related issues of poverty, food insecurity, and homelessness. Most recently he and his team at PAACA have doubled the number of housing units under its management to help to address the growing need for housing for people in recovery. Having lost loved ones to addiction, Carl's commitment to service is deeply personal. He serves on the boards of Learn to Cope, The Women’s Center and Inter-church Elderly Housing, Rise up for Homes and was immediate past president of the Homeless Service Providers Network of Greater New Bedford. A veteran in the field, Carl also provides consulting services on strategic planning, grant writing, and coalition building to organizations locally and nationally.
Carl is an engaged civic leader and active in numerous community groups such as a lifelong member of the Clube SS Sacramento (Portuguese Feast) and Rotary. Carl has been a member of the Dartmouth Rotary since 2016. He served as the "Pandemic President" and the chair of the DEI Committee for District 7950. He is currently the District Governor Nominee (2027-28) for the district that covers eastern Massachusetts and the Islands, and all of Rhode Island.
But his most cherished role is being married to his love Tanya, a fellow Rotarian and business owner, and dad to two beautiful children, Christian and Madison.
Carmen Amaral
Director of Academic Programs, Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School
Carmen Amaral is the Director of Academic Programs at Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School. In this role, she oversees curriculum, instructional strategy, and academic planning to support equitable student success and postsecondary readiness.
Originally from the island of São Miguel in the Azores, Carmen immigrated to Southeastern Massachusetts and has remained deeply rooted in the region. She began her career in pharmaceutical research before transitioning to education, driven by a strong belief in education as a vehicle for opportunity.
Carmen holds an EdS in Educational Leadership from Bridgewater State University, a Master’s in Biology Education from UMass Dartmouth, and a Bachelor’s in Biology and Chemistry from Bridgewater State College. She is a Fulbright Teachers for Global Classrooms fellow, and her undergraduate research in bioorganic chemistry earned published recognition.
In 2023, Carmen was honored as a YWCA Woman of Distinction and ran for New Bedford City Council, bringing a public service mindset and an advocacy lens shaped by her lived experience.
She proudly serves on the board of the Women’s Fund SouthCoast and volunteers with Lighthouse Animal Shelter. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, reading, and spending time with her rescue pets, family, and friends.
Wendy Botelho
Chief Executive Officer, Child & Family Services (CFS)
Wendy Botelho is the Chief Executive Officer of Child & Family Services (CFS), a nonprofit dedicated to healing and strengthening the lives of adults, children and families through behavioral health and supportive community services. CFS has over 10 locations, with a large presence in Fall River and New Bedford. With over 19 years of experience at Child & Family Services, Wendy has a deep commitment to advancing equity, access, and systemic change in support of the behavioral health needs of the communities where services are provided.
Wendy Botelho has worked at Child & Family Services for much of her career - starting as a student intern clinician and progressing to Vice President of Acute Care Services in 2016, prior to assuming her role as CEO in 2023.
Wendy is a native of Fall River and a graduate of Durfee High School and UMASS Dartmouth, where she earned both her undergraduate and Master’s degree. She is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor.
Christina Connelly
City of New Bedford
Christina Connelly has been the Chief Operating Officer for the City of New Bedford since 2018, and has been on Mayor Jon Mitchell's leadership team since the beginning of his tenure in 2012. In addition to overseeing most of the city's core operational departments, she leads the administration of $82million in American Rescue Plan Act funding. For five years prior to her time with the mayor, she was the Community Development Coordinator in the City's Office of Housing and Community Development.
She holds a B.A. and an M.A. in English from Boston College, and has served on the boards of Spinner Publications and the New Bedford Art Museum, and on the Advisory Board of the Children's Advocacy Center.
A lifelong New Bedford resident, Christina lives in beautiful Clark's Point with her husband Sean and son Liam, and is an ardent advocate for her beloved hometown.
Vinny DeMacedo
Senior Advisor for External Relations, Bridgewater State University
Vinny deMacedo came to Bridgewater State University in 2019, after a 21-year career serving his constituents in the Massachusetts Legislature. A proud Cape Verdean, he spent 16 years in the House of Representatives and another five years in the Massachusetts Senate before resigning.
That experience has served him well in his BSU role as the Special Advisor to the President, where Vinny has facilitated collaboration between the university and Federal and State officials. Vinny works as a liaison to regional municipalities and the business community, and actively seeks and secures grants for the University.
Some of those millions in grant money have gone toward a cutting-edge Cyber Program at BSU, which provides students the opportunity to earn a graduate degree in Cybersecurity and Cybercriminology. That funding also built a state-of-the-art Cyber Range on campus.
Vinny is also proud of his work in bringing business and financial partners across the region to collaborate on a new vocational program for autistic students in Computer Numeric Controls, which provides students with pathways to employment post-graduation.
In addition to his work on campus, Vinny has also secured funding to build a statewide cyber-security network for public higher education institutions throughout the Commonwealth, called Cyber Trust Massachusetts.
Sherry Ellis, LICSW ACSW
CEO, Stanley Street Treatment and Resources, Inc. (SSTAR)
Sherry Ellis is the CEO of Stanley Street Treatment and Resources, Inc. SSTAR houses a Federally Qualified Health Center, an Outpatient Mental Health Clinic, an Outpatient Substance Use Disorder Clinic, a methadone Opioid Treatment Program, a buprenorphine Office based Opioid Treatment Program, a Detox, a Residential, a Domestic Violence Program, a Mobile Van, an HIV/Hepatitis and AIDS Prevention and Treatment Program and other prevention and social service programs. Ms. Ellis has over 35 years’ management experience in nonprofit health care and community behavioral healthcare including 15 years in senior management with extensive work in health, mental health and substance use disorder.
Ms. Ellis has been an adjunct faculty member for The Boston College School of Social Work for the last fifteen years. She has served on committees both for the Association of Behavioral Health and for The Executive Office for Health and Human Services representing the needs of the behavioral health service providers across the system. She serves on the Board for the Association of Behavioral Health and for the BACO ACO. Her work in the field has emphasized a strong commitment to high risk, high need populations with a focus on integrating whole health solutions.
Sherry resides in Easton, Massachusetts. She has two children, a son John and a daughter Kristin. She enjoys spending time with her family, walking and traveling and enjoys playing pickleball multiple times per week.
Sherry Ellis holds a Bachelor of Arts and an MSW degree from Boston College. She is clinically trained and is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker and is also a member of the Academy of Certified Social Workers.
Jennifer Ferland
Executive Director of Strategic Initiatives & Partnerships, New Bedford Public Schools
Jennifer Ferland is the Executive Director of Strategic Initiatives & Partnerships for New Bedford Public Schools. New Bedford is the 8th largest district in the state, located in southeastern Massachusetts, and serving almost 13,000 students. Jennifer currently oversees approximately $50M in grants that includes Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) construction projects, federal entitlements, out of school time programming, and nutrition services. She has spent almost 25 years in the district having previously worked at the Parenting Teens Program, as the Grants Facilitator, and as the Director of Supplemental Services. Jennifer holds MA Department of Elementary & Secondary Education licenses as a business teacher, Supervisor/Director, Assistant Superintendent/Superintendent, and School Business Administrator. She is a Massachusetts Certified Public Purchasing Official and a member of the Massachusetts Association of School Business Officials. Jennifer is the Chair of the New Bedford Education Foundation, a member of the Executive Committee of the Greater New Bedford Youth Alliance, and sits on both the Education Committee of One Southcoast Chamber and the Greater New Bedford Opioid Task Force.
Originally from New Jersey, Jennifer has made the Southcoast her home for the past 30 years. She is married with two adult children. Her daughter is completing her Masters of Art in Teaching and her son is a welder. She spends her spare time with her family and her two dogs.
She has a BA in psychology from UMass Amherst, a Master of Public Policy from UMass Dartmouth, and is currently writing her dissertation for a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership from Lesley University.
Shannon M. Finning
Director, Employee & Labor Relations and HR Business Partners, Southcoast Health
Shannon Finning serves as the director, employee & labor relations and HR business partners, at Southcoast Health leading labor and employee relations strategy for Southcoast Health’s 8,000-employee system, overseeing complex investigations, negotiating and honoring collective bargaining agreements, and providing HR guidance and support to leaders in collaboration with executive leadership. She directly supervises the HR business partner, labor relations, and employee relations teams, while advancing academic partnerships through the establishment of a university relations function. Prior to joining Southcoast Health in 2022, she served as a passionate, results-driven educator with more than 20 years of professional experience in public and private higher education settings culminating in serving as the chief student affairs/experience officer at three institutions. During her tenure in higher education, she served institutions including Bridgewater State University, Bryant University, Clemson University, Drexel University and UMass Dartmouth.
Shannon lives in Mattapoisett with her husband, Michael, son, James, and two English bulldogs. When not working in or serving the community, Shannon can be found supporting local, club and collegiate sports teams and traveling the globe. Her family has visited all 50 states and is working their way through an impressive international travel plan.
She is also active in the community serving on the Greater New Bedford Workforce Board, Mattapoisett Elementary School Council and volunteering with MA Special Olympics and has previously served as a member of the Mattapoisett and Old Rochester Regional Union 55 School Committees and on the Board of Directors for the Springfield Boys and Girls Club.
Shannon graduated from Clemson University with a Ph.D. in educational leadership, earned a master of education degree in counseling from Bridgewater State University, and graduated from Bryant University with a bachelor of arts degree in communication. She is also a graduate of the Harvard University Leadership & Management Institute.
Dottie Fulginiti
Senior Vice President and Deputy Director of Operations in the Community Development Division at MassDevelopment
Dottie Fulginiti is Senior Vice President and Deputy Director of Operations in the Community Development Division at MassDevelopment where she helps lead efforts to invest in housing, infrastructure, and economic revitalization across Massachusetts.
Dottie also serves as Chair of the Easton Select Board bringing over a decade of experience in public service.
With deep experience in local government, housing, economic development, and public finance, she’s passionate about building strong communities through strategic investment, effective partnerships, and practical leadership that gets results.
Dottie serves on numerous board and committees such as the Easton Commission on Disability,
Chair of the Easton Shovel Town Cultural District, Easton Wings of Hope – reducing youth substance use, BioConnects NE, the Bristol County Advisory Board, MBTA Advisory Board and Brockton Area Transit Board.
Dottie has lived in Easton for 31 years with her husband, Gerry Fulginiti. They have two children: Jarrod, a U.S. Navy veteran who served six years as a nuclear mechanic, and Victoria, a 911 communications specialist.
Dottie studied at New England School of Design and Northeastern University where she focused on finance.
Rayana Grace
Program Officer, Island Foundation
Rayana Grace (she/her) is a Program Officer at the Island Foundation, managing their Womxn and Girls and New Bedford portfolios. In this role, Grace supports nonprofit organizations addressing root causes of inequality for womxn and girls in the United States and that promote progressive social change and combat discrimination in all its forms in New Bedford.
Grace also serves a number of local organizations as a Board member including Our Sisters’ School, the New Bedford Historical Society, and Buy Black NB, and teaches catechism at her church. She has vast experience in the nonprofit sector working in family support, youth development, and arts and culture. In 2021, she graduated from the PLACES Fellowship through the Funders’ Network. This fellowship uses learning, coaching and reflections to explore structural racism, community empowerment and equitable grantmaking practices. She also is a Zumba instructor and a Justice of the Peace in Massachusetts.
Rayana is a lifelong New Bedford resident and lives there with her husband Brian. When she is not working or volunteering, Rayana enjoys traveling, spending time with her family, cooking, and writing spoken word poetry.
In 2013, she graduated from Boston College with a degree in Sociology and African and African Diaspora Studies. This past May, she earned her Master of Public Policy (MPP) degree from Tufts University where she was a Neighborhood Fellow.
Abigail Hevey
Co-Director, Coastal Foodshed
Abby is currently the Co-Director of Coastal Foodshed, the local food hub serving the Southcoast. As a co-founder of the organization, Abby rejoined the organization in 2020 and has focused on the organization’s strategic development, writing grant proposals and helping to build programming to further the organization’s mission while aligning with the priorities of funders. Over her career, Abby has specialized in writing and managing grant applications from private, state, and federal funders as an employee and consultant for a number of nonprofits working across various causes. Abby is also a Trustee for the Millicent Library in Fairhaven.
Raised on a small farm in upstate New York, Abby now lives in Fairhaven, MA with her husband Ben, son Sawyer, daughter Tess, and cat Toby. When not working, Abby enjoys watching movies with her kids, reading, and baking.
Abby graduated with a Master’s in Professional Writing from the University of Massachusetts at Dartmouth. Abby is also a graduate of Leadership Southcoast’s Class of 2020.
Christina D. Johnk PHR
Chief Human Resources Officer, BankFive
Christina Johnk is currently the Chief Human Resources Officer at BankFive in Fall River, Massachusetts. She has over 20 years of experience in the HR profession and earned her master’s degree in HR from Southern New Hampshire University.
She sits on several boards: Rotary of Fall River, Fall River Historical Society, and the United Way of Greater Fall River. She is also a Rotarian and recently ended a successful campaign for the second year in a row as chair for the United Way of Greater Fall River. She is an adjunct professor at Bristol Community College where she teaches business acumen such as marketing and human resources. She was recently recognized for her outstanding work in her field by Massachusetts Bankers Association with the recognition of Champion of Women award.
Her proudest moments surround her two children, AJ, 21 yrs old, a student at Stonehill College and Grace, 19 yrs old, a student at Assumption University. She resides in East Greenwich RI, with her two children and her furry best friend, Luca the Aussiedoodle.
Lisa M. Jones, MD, MBA, FACOG
Chief Executive Officer, HealthFirst Family Care Center
Lisa M. Jones, MD, MBA, FACOG currently serves as the Chief Executive Officer at HealthFirst Family Care Center in Fall River. Prior to coming to HealthFirst in 2024, Lisa served as the Chief Medical Officer at Duffy Health Center in Hyannis from 2021-2024, and leadership roles, including Chief Quality and Compliance Officer at New Bedford Community Health from 2006-2021. Lisa is a Board-certified Obstetrician Gynecologist and former high school teacher who believes that the intersection of business, healthcare and education can make a real difference in the lives of underrepresented and marginalized communities.
Lisa is a resident of Somerset where she lives with her husband Mark, her two stepchildren (when they aren’t at college) and her 14-year-old rescue pup, Pepper. In her free time, Lisa believes that a well-lived life should include travel, sunshine, friends, good food and good books. Her free time reflects that belief.
A graduate of University of Michigan with degrees in biology (BS) and education (MA), Lisa attended Michigan State College of Human Medicine and recently completed her MBA from University of Massachusetts, Amherst.
Bill Kiley
Executive Director, Boys & Girls Club of Fall River
William Kiley is the Executive Director of the Boys & Girls Club of Fall River, a child service agency with 70 employees, 1,600 members, and a $3.2 million operating budget.
Bill was appointed Executive Director in September 2019, having served as Finance Director since joining the organization in April 2005. Bill’s professional experience includes 3 years Public Accounting, 2 years Internal Audit with ITT Sheraton, and 12 years as a Controller in the restaurant and hospitality industry.
Bill is a 1985 graduate of the University of New Hampshire with a B.S. in Business Administration. Bill has completed Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s: Club Directors Academy, Advanced Leadership Program and New Executive Orientation. He served in the U.S. Army Reserves from 1986-1992. Bill serves on the People Incorporated Human Rights Committee, Boys & Girls Club of America Pension Committee, MA Alliance of Boys & Girls Clubs Board of Directors, and Bristol Community College Foundation Board of Directors.
Bill was born and raised in Fall River and currently resides in Dartmouth, MA with his wife. They have three adult children all residing locally. Bill enjoys bicycling, golf, remains active in adult ice hockey leagues, and recently took up boating.
Pam Kuechler
Executive Director, PACE, Inc.
Pam Kuechler has served as the Executive Director of PACE, Inc., the Community Action Agency serving Greater New Bedford, since July 2018, overseeing the work of 10 programs and a staff of 175. She rejoined the PACE family after 6 years as Executive Director of the Massachusetts Head Start Association (MHSA). Prior to her time at MHSA, she spent 17 years working in PACE, Inc.’s Child Care Works Program, initially coordinating their Family Center Program, and then as Program Director for Child Care Works, the Child Care Resource and Referral program serving Southeastern MA.
She began her career at the Key Program working with at-risk youth and spent the subsequent 5 years in a similar role at Stopover Services of Newport County before joining the PACE team. Over the course of her career, she has participated in policy and systems development at the federal, state, and local level focused on topics related to supporting and providing opportunities for vulnerable populations. She previously coordinated New Bedford’s Early Literacy Consortium and presently Co-Chairs New Bedford’s Birth-3rd Partnership. She also currently serves President of MassCAP, the association for Community Action Agencies.
Pam lives in Fairhaven, MA with her husband Doug and her mom Peg. She has 2 children, Alex and Alison, and their two Border Collie mix dogs Sampson and Jasmine. And Pam is excited to be gaining a son-in-law, Brian, at the end of September thanks to her daughter Ali. She loves the outdoors in all seasons and is an avid skier, runner, hiker, paddleboarder, beachgoer, and obstacle course racer. She loves to read and garden. She received a BA in Psychology from the University of New Hampshire. She served on her local School Committee 15 years and participates on a number of other community boards and groups.
Jason P. Lanagan
President, Lanagan & Co., Inc.
Jason Lanagan is the President of Lanagan & Co., Inc., a development and brokerage firm anchored in New Bedford’s Whaling National Historical Park, where he oversees development strategy, brokerage operations, and property management compliance. Prior to starting the firm, Jason developed a series of hospitality related properties that ignited his passion for historic adaptive re-use development. His volunteer activities include founding the SCBA, serving on the Buzzards Bay Coalition’s Public Policy Committee, chairing the Boys & Girls Club of Greater New Bedford’s property Committee, and serving on DATMA’s Board of Directors.
Jason presently resides in Fairhaven MA with his family, Kayla, Alice, and Oscar. He enjoys cycling and being on or close to the water.
Jason has a Bachelors of Science in Finance from the University of Massachusetts.
Jordan Latham
Vacant Property Development Manager, City of New Bedford’s Office of Housing and Community Development
Jordan Latham is the Vacant Property Development Manager for the City of New Bedford’s Office of Housing and Community Development, where she leads an initiative to return vacant and distressed properties to productive use. Described as “part investigator, part case worker,” she works across city departments and with property owners, developers, and community partners to reactivate long-abandoned or tax-delinquent properties as part of the City’s broader housing strategy. Her prior roles include Research and Communications Director for State Representative Antonio Cabral (D–New Bedford) and Director of Advocacy and Resource Development at YWCA Southeastern Massachusetts, a role she began while completing doctoral studies at Boston University. She also worked as a teaching fellow, research assistant, and adjunct instructor during her graduate education. Since moving to New Bedford in 2013, Jordan has served on numerous public boards, volunteered with local organizations, and was appointed to the Plymouth County Commission on the Status of Women and Girls. In 2021, she co-founded ELECT SouthCoast, a volunteer-led initiative advancing women’s political leadership in elected and appointed office. Her civic contributions have been recognized with the SouthCoast Five Emerging Leaders award (2019) and the 10th Bristol District’s Commonwealth Heroine award (2025).
Since 2018, she has lived in Rochester with her husband, Hunt, and their children, Archer and Andie. A lifelong athlete, Jordan plays in soccer and softball leagues and coaches her daughter’s soccer team. When not on the field or out for a run with her dog Ripley, she’s often at her family’s restaurant, Sixes & Sevens.
Originally from Manchester, New Hampshire, she holds an AB in History from the University of Chicago, an MA in American Studies from UMass Boston, and a Graduate Certificate in Women’s, Gender and Sexuality Studies from Boston University, where she pursued a PhD in American and New England Studies.
Darcy H. Lee
Executive Director, Samaritans Southcoast
As Executive Director of Samaritans Southcoast, Darcy H. Lee oversees all operations, including the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, grief support programs, and strategic efforts to prevent suicide, provide compassionate crisis care, and support healing after loss. She leads a team of 70 staff, interns, and volunteers, manages budgets and fundraising, builds key community partnerships, ensures compliance with crisis intervention standards, and advocates for equitable mental health resources across southeastern Massachusetts. Previously, Lee worked at the John F. Kennedy Library and Foundation, serving as Press Aide to U.S. Senator Edward M. Kennedy, before building a career in fundraising and consulting for organizations such as Clark University, Orchard House, Pilgrim Hall Museum, and the Women’s Fund of SEMA. She also led Mayflower RSVP as Executive Director. An author of two books, including the award-winning Ghosts of Plymouth, Massachusetts (2017), Lee co-chairs the Norfolk County Suicide Prevention Coalition, serves on the Executive Committee of the Massachusetts Coalition for Suicide Prevention, and is Assistant Governor for Area 7 of Rotary District 7950. Her affiliations include the Rotary Club of Fall River, the National Association of Crisis Organization Directors, and the New Bedford Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution.
She resides in Fall River, Massachusetts, where she enjoys golfing, playing pickleball, reading, volunteering in her community, and attending the theater and symphony performances. Lee loves to laugh and believes a day without laughter is a day wasted.
Lee holds a BA in history from Marymount College at Fordham University, attended Clark University for graduate studies, and is currently working toward her Master of Science in Psychology at California Coast University.
Rev. David A Lima
Pastor, New Seasons Worship Center
Executive Minister, Inter-Church Council of Greater New Bedford
Chair, Greater New Bedford Suicide Prevention Coalition
Rev. David A. Lima has been the Executive Minister of the Inter-Church Council of Greater New Bedford since November 2005. The ICC, in its 86th year, is an ecumenical council with member churches working with all faiths and community leaders for the good of the community. Working to help bring about positive change and to raise public awareness is a strong part of the present goals of the Council. The mission statement of the Council reads “Community through unity… unity through service.”
The ICC has also supported the schools and the community with chaplains during times of crisis and traumatic events.
He has helped lead public rallies, church services and neighborhood walks against violence and other tragic events both local and national. He has helped plan and conduct Safety Gun Exchanges using Houses of Worship as safe haven at which hundreds of guns and thousands of rounds of ammunition have been collected.
Rev. Lima has and continues to serve on numerous boards and committees of many religious, civic and community organizations, both locally and statewide. He founded and leads the Greater New Bedford Suicide Prevention Coalition, Chairs First Citizens Federal Credit Union and Project Independence (an adult day healthcare center) to name a few. He also serves on the Greater New Bedford Opioid Task Force.
He is the Chaplain for the New Bedford Police Department and one of the founders and leaders of the Community Outreach and Advocacy Program (COAP) doing outreach to anyone who overdoses from opioids with follow-up visits to connect people and families to services.
He is a lifelong New Bedford resident, living with Joanne his wife of 45 years. They have three children and six granddaughters. The strength of his life is to spend as much family time as possible, whenever possible. Spending time each day walking Sasha, the family’s Siberian Huskey is one of his motivating and centering times of day.
A graduate of the inaugural year of Leadership Southcoast, he was also on their board for many years and served as president for a time.
April Lynch
Chief Strategy Officer, Bristol Community College
April Lynch is an accomplished higher education executive and strategic thought leader with more than two decades of experience advancing institutional excellence through innovation, operational transformation, and inclusive leadership. As the Chief Strategy Officer at Bristol Community College, April leads strategic planning, cross-functional collaboration, and institutional effectiveness initiatives that align with the college’s mission to empower learners and strengthen communities.
Since 2020, she has served as a senior advisor to the President and a core member of the college’s leadership team, first as Chief of Staff and Strategic Development. In these roles, April has spearheaded the design and execution of multi-year strategic plans, overseen institutional accreditation, led organizational redesign efforts, and championed a culture of continuous improvement and data-informed decision-making. She also directed operations across three satellite campuses and leads high-impact initiatives that advance equity, improve performance, and expand community partnerships.
A passionate advocate for student success, April developed Bristol’s equity core competency model and has led professional development programs to embed equity-minded practices across the institution. She regularly represents the college in presentations to the Board of Trustees and plays a key role in advancing philanthropic initiatives, strategic planning efforts, and government relations on behalf of the institution.
Prior to her current role, April served as a full-time business faculty member, Strategic Fellow, and Director of the Academic Center for Entrepreneurship (ACE), where she launched student-centered initiatives that blended experiential learning, service, and innovation. She has also held adjunct faculty positions at several institutions, including University of Massachusetts Dartmouth, Stonehill College, and Bryant University, teaching marketing, management, entrepreneurship, and ethics.
Outside of higher education, April is a seasoned entrepreneur and marketing strategist, having led two successful companies - Atlantex Sports Specialties and A.L.L. Communications - serving clients across national markets with strategic planning, brand development, and market research expertise. Her early corporate experience as Marketing Manager at Solium, Inc., a subsidiary of The Pacific Scientific Company, included overseeing a $5M marketing budget and leading national campaigns across diverse channels of distribution.
April holds an MBA and a Bachelor of Science in Marketing from Bryant University. She currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Southeastern Economic Development Corporation (SEED), supporting entrepreneurship and small business development across the region.
James McKeag
Deputy Director of Investments and Partnerships, MassDevelopment TDI
Jim is Deputy Director of Investments and Partnerships for MassDevelopment’s Transformative Development Initiative (TDI), a place-based development program for Gateway Cities designed to enhance local public-private engagement and community identity, stimulate improved quality of life for local residents, and spur increased investment and economic activity. He served as a TDI Fellow in New Bedford from 2016-2019 and for Fall River from 2019-2022.
Jim is originally from Worcester, Massachusetts and has a particular interest in—and concern for—our urban neighborhoods and communities. He has experience in the fields of urban planning, historic preservation, housing rehabilitation, and property management. Creating vibrant and engaging public spaces has been central in his work and he has been involved in many placemaking and public art initiatives.
Jim lives in New Bedford where he loves spending time with his wife Jane and three children and learning about local history. He sits on the New Bedford Planning Board and has recently found joy singing with the New Bedford Sea Chantey Chorus.
Jim is a trained mediator and holds undergraduate degrees from Quinsigamond Community College and Cornell University, and a Masters Degree in Urban and Environmental Policy and Planning from Tufts University.
Daniela F. Melo
Chair of the Board and Co-Founder, The New Bedford Light
Daniela Melo is Chair of the Board and Co-Founder of The New Bedford Light, an innovative nonprofit dedicated to investigative journalism serving the greater New Bedford area. She is a political scientist and senior lecturer in the Social Sciences Division [CGS] at Boston University. Daniela is also a frequent contributor of political analysis on US domestic and foreign policy to media in Portugal. She is the lead co-editor of two books, and author of various academic articles on Iberian politics.
She grew up in Portugal, from where her family emigrated to the United States in 1998 into the city of Central Falls, RI. Daniela has lived in New Bedford with her husband, the historian Timothy D. Walker, since 2008. They have a delightful 6 year-old son, Sebastian. In her free time, Daniela enjoys traveling, putting together big family gatherings with abundant Portuguese food, and playing with her son.
Daniela graduated from the University of Connecticut with a Ph.D. and a Master’s in Political Science. She is also a graduate of Connecticut College, where she pursued B.A.s in International Relations and in Italian.
Christine Monksa
Executive Director, Women’s Fund SouthCoast
Christine Monska is a nationally recognized nonprofit executive and global gender justice strategist with over 15 years of cross-sector leadership in philanthropy, higher education, and government. She currently serves as Executive Director of the Women’s Fund SouthCoast, where she leads all aspects of the organization’s strategy, fundraising, operations, and impact—advancing gender, racial, and economic equity through participatory grantmaking, youth-led advocacy, and intersectional research.
Christine’s career has focused on building inclusive leadership pipelines for women and gender-expansive people, particularly those with marginalized identities. She previously led the Young Women’s Initiative in Springfield—part of a national model developed by the Obama White House Council on Women and Girls—and served as District Director to former Senator Ben Downing. She has held leadership roles at the Women’s Fund of Western Massachusetts, The Clubhouse Network (a collaboration with the MIT Media Lab), Bean Group Global and Bard Microcollege.
Internationally, Christine has worked on gender equity and political participation in the Czech Republic, Bosnia, Serbia, and Geneva as part of her graduate research on women’s political representation. Her work has appeared in academic journals and public platforms, and she has presented at TEDx, and global conferences.
She holds a B.A. in Government and International Relations from Smith College and a M.S. in Global Affairs, International Law and Human Rights from NYU, and executive certificates from Harvard Business School and George Washington University.
John Morgan
Founder & Owner, Morgan Staffing Services
John Morgan is a seasoned professional with a passion for connecting talent with opportunity. With over 25 years of invaluable experience in the staffing industry, John is the esteemed owner of Morgan Staffing Services, a leading professional staffing agency serving the vibrant regions of Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut.
John's dedication to excellence is evident in his commitment to providing unparalleled support across a wide array of industries, including administration, light industrial, warehouse, food manufacturing, and event staffing. His extensive knowledge and hands-on approach have enabled him to build lasting relationships with both clients and candidates, fostering a reputation for reliability and trustworthiness in the industry.
As a staunch advocate for diversity and inclusion, John proudly serves as a member of the Minority Business Enterprise, championing equal opportunities for all. Additionally, his active involvement in professional associations such as the Massachusetts Staffing Association and the American Staffing Association underscores his dedication to staying abreast of industry trends and best practices.
John's journey to success began with a solid educational foundation, having earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Florida A&M University. This educational background, coupled with his wealth of real-world experience, positions him as a dynamic leader capable of navigating the complexities of the staffing landscape with finesse and expertise. With John at the helm, Morgan Staffing Services continues to thrive as a trusted partner for businesses and job seekers alike, driven by a shared vision of empowerment and success.
Helena L. Moronta
First Vice President Community Relations Officer, BayCoast Bank
Helena Moronta is the First Vice President and Community Relations Officer at BayCoast Bank, bringing over 20 years of experience in the financial sector. With a strong focus on business development, community engagement, and policy implementation, Ms. Moronta has earned a reputation for strategic leadership that drives both organizational growth and community impact.
In her current role, she oversees the bank's community relations initiatives, serving as a key liaison between BayCoast Bank and a wide range of stakeholders, including nonprofit organizations, government entities, businesses, and local leaders. Her efforts are centered on cultivating long-term, trust-based partnerships that align with the bank’s mission to foster economic mobility and promote community resilience. Ms. Moronta's leadership ensures that all community engagement strategies are aligned with the bank's core values and strategic goals, strengthening the bank’s presence and positive influence across the region.
Beyond her professional role, Ms. Moronta is a dedicated advocate for community service, education and youth empowerment. She actively contributes to several boards and committees, including Project GOAL, Massachusetts Business Alliance for Education, The San Miguel School, United Way of Rhode Island, Boys & Girls Club, The Rhode Island Foundation ELI, The SHARE Foundation, the Rhode Island Bankers Association, and the Massachusetts Bankers Association. Additionally, she dedicates her time to volunteering with the Special Olympics, HopeHealth Hulitar Hospice Center, Camp BraveHeart, and Weekend of Hope and Healing.
Ms. Moronta resides in Cranston, RI, with her husband. Outside of her professional and community commitments, she enjoys traveling to broaden her global perspective and finds joy in hosting intimate gatherings, where she shares home-cooked meals with loved ones. A passionate dancer, she believes in the power of movement as a universal language that transcends cultural boundaries.
Moronta holds a foundational background in finance from the University of Rhode Island and has completed advanced leadership training at Cornell University, Brown University, and Babson College. These educational experiences have further developed her expertise in leadership, organizational growth, and financial strategy.
Sarah Page
Executive Director, Fall River Redevelopment Authority
Sarah Page has been Executive Director of the Fall River Redevelopment Authority (FRRA) since October 2020. She and her team implement Downtown and Waterfront Urban Renewal Plans (URPs) and are in the process of developing a URP for the Flint neighborhood. Working with FRRA’s 5-member board and its consultants, she led redevelopment of 600 Davol Street including Senator Thomas Norton City Pier which is alive with people enjoying recreation and community activities and works with FRRA’s Project Manager on further development of this waterfront property. Facilitated by MassDOT’s removal of an elevated highway, she spearheaded creation of a Master Plan for 19 acres of residential and commercial development on Fall River’s Waterfront.
Previously she was Senior Vice President, Community Building and Engagement at Way Finders, a regional community development organization based in Springfield, MA. Over 16 years with the organization she played many roles including public relations, fundraising, housing development and community engagement with a primary focus on urban revitalization in the Gateway Cities of Holyoke and Springfield. For five years, she was Executive Director of the Institute for Community Economics, a national Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) and national intermediary of the Community Land Trust movement. In a consulting role, she co-founded Co-op Initiatives in Hartford, CT and led the organization for 8 years developing housing co-ops in Hartford’s suburbs. She has a bachelor’s degree in Community Planning and Art from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst.
Jeffrey Pagliuca
Senior Vice-President, Commercial Lending, Market Manager with Bristol County Savings Bank
Jeffrey Pagliuca is a Senior Vice-President, Commercial Lending, Market Manager with Bristol County Savings Bank. In this capacity, Pagliuca is responsible for the development and management of commercial banking relationships across the South Coast of Massachusetts and works out of the Bank’s Candleworks Office in downtown New Bedford and Pleasant Street Offices in Downtown Fall River. He has worked in similar banking roles at other financial institutions across the South Coast region since 2000.
During his career, he has worked with thousands of small businesses across the region and developed an enhanced knowledge base of expertise within the seafood industry. Many of the small business owners he has assisted over the past two decades have developed from their infancy into some of the regions’ leading businesses. He is a true advocate for small businesses across the region.
Active in the community, Pagliuca has served as a Board Member of the One SouthCoast Chamber of Commerce since 2012 and has served in various prior roles such as the Vice-Chair of Membership, Executive Committee, Chair of the Ambassadors Committee and has served as the Chair of numerous membership campaigns. He also serves on the Board of the Fall River Development Corporation, the Board of the New Bedford Economic Development Council and is the Chair of their Small Business Loan Committee, the Board of the Greater New Bedford Industrial Park Foundation and the New Bedford Fishing Heritage Center.
Pagliuca is a licensed Massachusetts Attorney earning his Juris Doctor degree from University of Massachusetts Law School in Dartmouth and his bachelor’s degree from Worcester State University, Worcester, Massachusetts. He resides in Taunton, Massachusetts with his Wife Renee and three daughters.
Kristen Pavao
Founding Director, Argosy Collegiate Charter School
Kristen Pavao is the Founding Director of Argosy Collegiate Charter School in Fall River, Massachusetts—a tuition-free, college preparatory school serving scholars in grades 6–12. As one of only three wall-to-wall Early College programs in the state, Argosy Collegiate provides every scholar the opportunity to graduate with both a high school diploma and an associate degree, at no cost to students or their families, through partnerships with Bristol Community College and the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth.
Kristen began her career in education in 2006 and later earned a Fellowship with Building Excellent Schools, where she studied best practices from high-performing charter schools in underserved communities across the country. Driven by a vision to expand opportunity in her hometown, she authored Argosy’s charter, assembled its founding Board of Trustees, and has led the school since its authorization in 2014. Today, Argosy Collegiate employs over 100 staff members and serves more than 600 scholars. As the school grows its Early College program and enrollment, Kristen is focused on guiding Argosy into its second decade—shifting from a period of growth to becoming a lasting institution, transforming educational outcomes in Fall River for generations to come.
In addition to leading the school, Kristen serves on the Argosy Foundation Board and founded the Alumni Advancement Fund in 2024 to support college-going alumni. She is actively involved in governance, fundraising, and capital development efforts across Argosy Collegiate’s two campuses serving scholars in South Fall River, Massachusetts.
A proud Fall River native, Kristen is committed to expanding college access and eliminating financial barriers for scholars. She holds a BS in Marketing and Retail Management from UMass and an M.Ed. in Educational Mathematics from Lesley University. In her free time, she enjoys gardening, home renovations, and cooking.
Jeffrey Pelletier
President & CEO, Junior Achievement of Southern Massachusetts
Jeffrey Pelletier serves as the President & CEO of Junior Achievement of Southern Massachusetts, a nonprofit organization that collaborates with the public, private and education sectors to advance career readiness, entrepreneurship, and financial literacy education for young people across the region. Through integrated learning models and innovative partnerships, Junior Achievement empowers the next generation with the knowledge, capacity, and motivation to thrive; to build a better future for themselves and our community.
Previously, Pelletier served as the Program Director for Executives Without Borders, a non-profit organization dedicated to engaging the business community in solving the world’s greatest humanitarian challenges. In Haiti, he directed a nationwide jobs and recycling program that collected over 35 million plastic bottles and generated over $250,000 in incomes for communities in need. In Honduras, he directed private sector engagement projects with a Fortune 500 company to increase the sustainability of the life-saving medical work of a local nonprofit.
He graduated from Methodist University in North Carolina with a degree in Business Administration and is also a graduate of Leadership SouthCoast.
He is an active volunteer in the community and serves as a member of the Board of Directors for Youth Opportunities Unlimited, Bishop Stang High School, Immigrants’ Assistance Center, and the MassHire Greater New Bedford Workforce Board. Pelletier is a member of the Community Benefits Committee for Southcoast Health. Pelletier is a past winner of the SouthCoast Emerging Leader Award.
David Prentiss
President & CEO, New Bedford Symphony Orchestra
David Prentiss is the President and CEO of New Bedford Symphony Orchestra (NBSO). Dave first came to the NBSO in the mid-1990s as a board member and chair of its strategic planning committee, then served as Board chair for several years. In 2008 he was appointed President and CEO of the organization.
Dave is chair of the Board of Trustees of Alma del Mar Charter School Network, and serves on the Advisory Council of Our Sisters' School, the Advisory Board of New Bedford Research and Robotics, and the Zeiterion Theater Capital Campaign Committee. He has also served on the boards of the New Bedford Ballet, Whaling City Rowing, South Coast Chamber Music Society, Tri-County Symphonic Band, AHA!, Bristol County Visitors and Convention Bureau, and the New Bedford Civil War Roundtable. He provides pro bono nonprofit consulting services to organizations in the area, including in the past the Zeiterion Theatre, New Bedford Ballet, the South Coast Humane Society and Shelter, and the Whitfield-Manjiro Friendship Society. Dave also teaches in the political science department of the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth, including courses on constitutional law, American government, leadership, urban politics, and political philosophy. He is also a frequent speaker on the topics of leadership, liberal education, history, and literature.
Dave lives in New Bedford and is an avid cyclist, hiker, runner, birder, photographer, and reader.
Dave has a BA in Philosophy from Assumption College, an MA in Political Science from Boston College, and a JD from New England School of Law.
James A. Primo III
Co-Owner, Primo Hospitality Solutions LLC
James Anthony Primo III is Co-Owner of Primo Hospitality Solutions LLC, where he leads impactful training initiatives across Southern Massachusetts and Rhode Island. With over 20 years of experience in bartending and bar management, James has established himself as one of the region’s top T.I.P.S. Proctors, certifying thousands in responsible alcohol service. His journey into hospitality began after serving as a Director at a local children’s hospital; a pivotal career shift inspired by his partner, Shannon Raposo. Since then, James has worked in a variety of high volume venues, thriving under pressure and demonstrating an unwavering commitment to excellence.
His approach to service is both methodical and inspiring, focusing on efficiency, self-confidence, and calm under stress. James brings a teaching style that challenges students to reevaluate techniques with sound reasoning, instilling professionalism and poise. As a certified T.I.P.S. Trainer, he is recognized not only for his depth of knowledge but also for the passion he brings to every training. James’s contributions extend beyond his business: he is a respected mentor and advocate for safer, smarter hospitality.
James lives in Fall River, MA with his life partner, Shannon Raposo, and their son, James Anthony Primo IV. He is a proud family man who enjoys spending his spare time with loved ones.
Shannon Raposo
Co-Owner, Primo Hospitality Solutions LLC
Shannon Raposo is President of Primo Hospitality Solutions LLC and shares the business with her fiancé and life partner, James A. Primo III. With 25 years in the hospitality industry, Shannon began as a server/bartender and quickly rose through the ranks; taking on nearly every role from dishwasher to line cook to General Manager. Her leadership blends hands-on experience, mentorship, and continued education through industry experts, allowing her to refine operations and drive meaningful growth.
She transitioned to ownership in 2017, launching Primo Bartending School, a top-tier training program focused on trending cocktails and expert techniques. In 2018, she expanded the brand with Party with Primo Catering, a full-service food and alcohol company that specializes in large-scale events and upscale weddings across Massachusetts and Rhode Island. In 2023, Shannon and her partner established Primo on Water Street, a restaurant and immersive bartending education center featuring a one-of-a-kind training facility at its core.
Shannon is also a certified T.I.P.S. Alcohol Proctor and has trained countless hospitality professionals throughout the region. Her resilience was put to the test in 2014, when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Despite undergoing treatment, she continued working, made a televised appearance on Phantom Gourmet, and led major waterfront events that united her community.
In addition to her work in hospitality, Shannon is the founder of Mistletoes Community Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that provides families in need with brand-new shoes. Her commitment to excellence, empathy, and empowerment continues to inspire those around her.
Shannon lives in Fall River, MA with her life partner, James A. Primo III, and their son, James A. Primo IV. She loves to sing, dance, and spend quality time with her family.
Leslie Ribeiro Vicente, PhD
Executive Director, Discovery Language Academy (DLA)
Leslie Ribeiro Vicente has been the Executive Director of Discovery Language Academy (DLA) since 2016. In that capacity, she has been instrumental, along with the Board of Directors, to revise the vision and mission of the school to reflect 21st-century needs, paving the way for more engaging, inclusive, and effective learning environments, while capitalizing on technology to enhance learning and teaching experiences. Under her leadership, DLA not only increased child enrollment in Portuguese-language classes by 465 percent but also introduced classes for adults and expanded learning opportunities in the areas of language acquisition, cultural understanding, and career education to help individuals achieve personal, professional, and vocational goals. Under her guidance, DLA established HUB 128, a collaborative working space for organizations, private groups, and students with the support of MassDevelopment, Bridgewater State University, and the DeMello International Center.
In 2024, the Portuguese American Leadership Council of the United States (PALCUS) presented its 2024 Education Leadership Award to Discovery Language Academy. Also in 2024, Dr. Leslie Ribeiro Vicente was chosen as the Person of the Year by The Prince Henry Society of New Bedford. But her love and commitment to the community do not end there. She is currently an elected member of the Council of the Portuguese Communities (CCP), a Portuguese Government’s advisory board for policies relating to Portuguese communities abroad. She is a past member of UMass Dartmouth’s Center for Portuguese Studies and Culture Advisory Board, the Consulate of Portugal in New Bedford Advisory Board, and a past and current member of other boards and committees.
Leslie was born in San Diego, California, but grew up on the island of Pico, Azores, until she moved with her family to New Bedford at the age of 12. She graduated from New Bedford High School before earning a bachelor’s degree, two master’s degrees, and a doctoral degree in Educational Leadership and Public Policy from UMass Dartmouth. She has been a lifelong educator. Presently, she teaches Portuguese-language courses at Lesley University, and currently resides in New Bedford with her partner, Joseph Brizida. She is the mother of Sasha, Tyler, Lucas, and Joey, whom she considers her biggest achievement.
Maria A. Rosario
Executive Director, NorthStar Learning Centers
Maria Angela Rosario has served for 19 years as Executive Director of NorthStar Learning Centers, a minority-led social service nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting disadvantaged children, youth, and families in the New Bedford area. In this role, she provides comprehensive strategic leadership, overseeing financial management, fundraising, program development, and community engagement, ensuring the organization fulfills its mission with integrity and impact.
Maria leads with cultural intelligence, deep personal insight, and a commitment to evidence-based practices. Under her leadership, NorthStar has launched numerous innovative programs that successfully engage “hard-to-reach” populations and support the “hard-to-treat,” significantly improving access to quality services for marginalized communities.
She has also positioned NorthStar as a powerful advocate for communities of color, working to improve the cultural competence and responsiveness of local schools, courts, and youth-serving institutions. A committed champion of equity in the workplace, Maria has established a strong record of recruiting, retaining, and promoting a diverse, multilingual staff that reflects the cultures and languages of New Bedford families.
Beyond her role at NorthStar, Maria contributes her expertise through service on several boards and active participation in community and state-level planning, advocacy efforts, and grassroots development. Her work consistently focuses on dismantling systemic barriers and expanding equitable opportunities, ensuring that all children, youth, and families have the support and resources they need to thrive.
A long-time resident of New Bedford, Maria lives in the city’s West End, where she raised her daughter—now an attorney and new mother living in Washington, D.C. In her spare time, Maria delights in being a grandmother, cherishing every moment, knowing how quickly the infant and toddler years pass.
Maria has a BA in Sociology and a graduate degree in Counseling Psychology from the Cambridge College Graduate School (Cambridge, MA).
Sarah W. Rose
Chief Impact Officer, United Way of Greater New Bedford
Sarah W. Rose is the Chief Impact Officer at United Way of Greater New Bedford where she serves as a member of the leadership team and oversees grantmaking and programs. Sarah works with the board and community partners to spearhead strategic initiatives to enhance community capacity across several key impact areas. She develops new initiatives that enhance ongoing programs and secures financial resources needed to further this work.
Prior to her current position, Sarah was the Director of Engagement at the SouthCoast Community Foundation and Vice President of Education and Programs for the New Bedford Whaling Museum. Sarah earned a BA from Wheaton College, MBA from New York University Stern School of Business, and MAT from Simmons University. She is on The Bristol Community College Advisory Board, Massachusetts Early Childhood Funder Collaborative Steering Committee, and serves on the Board of Directors of Island Health Project and Henry L Ferguson Museum.
Julie Ruggiero
Bristol County Commissioner
Julie Ruggiero is currently serving her first term as Bristol County Commissioner. She is the second woman to hold this position in over 300 years. In this role, she oversees budgeting for the maintenance of 4 courthouses in Taunton, New Bedford and Attleboro as well as the Children’s Museum of Greater Fall River and the 3 Registry of Deeds offices in Bristol County. As County Commissioner, she is also a member of the Board of Trustees at Bristol County Agricultural High School. Julie enjoys being involved in the school’s decision-making process, as well as bringing transparency and a voice for all cities and towns to the commissioner’s office. Julie is also a Realtor in MA & RI, and a registered nurse at Alpha Care Home Health. Julie’s backgrounds in real estate and nursing have given her a unique perspective to serve in her current role as commissioner.
Julie is a life-long resident of Somerset where she lives with her husband, Rob and her 2 dogs Lucy & Creed. With many living on the same street, her tight-knit, Portuguese family gathers frequently. Julie loves to travel with her husband & friends, explore new cultures and is a loyal member of Sweat Gym in Fall River.
Julie graduated from Bristol Community College with her Associates in Nursing in 2021. Julie also graduated from Bridgewater State University in 2016, where she obtained her Bachelors of Science in communication disorders and a minor in psychology.
Margo Saulnier
Director of Creative Strategies & Arts-Based Initiatives, New Bedford Economic Development Council
Margo Saulnier is a creative strategist and cultural advocate based in Southeastern Massachusetts, dedicated to integrating the arts into civic life and economic development. As Director of Creative Strategies and Arts-Based Initiatives at the New Bedford Economic Development Council, she leads New Bedford Creative—the city's first arts and culture plan—while shaping initiatives that amplify the region’s creative ecosystem, from public art and grantmaking to research and capacity-building.
Under her leadership, the New Bedford Creative Consortium has become a model for arts-based collaboration, and projects like the Wicked Cool Places grant program, the Seaport Art Walk and a citywide training series Peer-to-Peer Sessions have brought visibility and support to local artists and cultural organizations. In 2024, she oversaw the release of The Composition of the New Bedford Creative Economy and Economic Impacts, 2018–2022, a pioneering city-scale impact study.
Before returning to her South Coast roots, Saulnier spent over a decade producing more than 4,000 live events with the Boston Pops and Lincoln Center, contributing to national broadcasts on PBS, A&E, and CBS. She has also lent her expertise to large-scale public projects with Celebrity Series of Boston, including Play Me, I’m Yours and Le Grand Continental.
Saulnier holds a degree in music from Boston University and an MFA from Brooklyn College. She is a mentor with EforAll SouthCoast and an active board and committee member with organizations including ArtWeek SouthCoast, Southeastern Massachusetts Visitors Bureau, AHA! New Bedford, and the SouthCoast Community Foundation. Her work continues to bridge creativity, community, and economic opportunity across the region.
Saulnier lives in New Bedford with her husband, musician Scott Bishop, their teen daughters Perri and Dezzi, and the family pets Heidi, Hagrid, and Peptide.
Naomi Slipp
Douglas and Cynthia Crocker Endowed Chair for Chief Curator
Director of Museum Learning at the New Bedford Whaling Museum
A museum professional with diverse experience in exhibition curation, academic publishing, higher education, and strategic visioning and implementation, Naomi Slipp is passionate about interdisciplinary storytelling, leveraging collections to connect with diverse audiences in meaningful ways, and inspiring connections between past and present. As the Douglas and Cynthia Crocker Endowed Chair for Chief Curator and Director of Museum Learning at the New Bedford Whaling Museum, Slipp is a member of the senior leadership team and directs all activities related to collections, curatorial, and museum learning for the organization. At NBWM, she has curated several special exhibitions including Turn the Tide: Courtney Mattison (2021), Re/Framing the View: Nineteenth-Century American Landscapes (2022), A Singularly Marine & Fabulous Produce: The Cultures of Seaweed (2023), and The Wider World & Scrimshaw (2024).
Slipp holds a PhD from Boston University and MA from the University of Chicago, is trained as an art historian, and has published and presented widely on diverse topics for different audiences. Prior to joining NBWM, Slipp served as the Executive Editor of Panorama: the Journal of the Association of Historians of American Art, worked at the Philadelphia Museum of Art; MFA, Boston; Roger Williams University; Boston University Art Gallery; Terra Foundation for American Art; and Harvard Art Museums, and was, most recently, a tenured Associate Professor of Art History at Auburn University at Montgomery, AL, where she taught classes and directed the Southern Studies Conference, managed the University Gallery and art collection, and coordinated the Museum Studies Program.
Slipp grew up on the coast in Bristol, RI. That proximity to water has had a fundamental impact and shapes her connections to the Museum’s collections and communities. She lives with her husband, five-year-old son, and twelve-year-old cat in Fall River, MA. She enjoys the outdoors, visiting museums, and reading.
Stephanie Sloan
Director, New Bedford Health Department
Stephanie Sloan serves as the Director at the New Bedford Health Department. In her role, she provides department-wide leadership and guidance in the interpretation and application of federal, state, and local public health laws and regulations, including divisions for environmental and community health, public health nursing, special programs and grants, municipal marine laboratory, and operations and social innovation. In her eleven years at the health department, she has held various roles which have supported grant implementation, department operations and COVID-19 response.
Stephanie lives in New Bedford with her husband and three children. She enjoys spending time with her family, traveling and going to the beach.
Stephanie received her BA in Psychology from Providence College and her Master’s in Public Health at Boston University School of Medicine.
Rodney Solomon
Director, MassHire Greater New Bedford Career Center
Rodney Solomon is the Director at the MassHire Greater New Bedford Career Center, operated by Equus Workforce Solutions—a national leader in workforce development services. In this role, he leads strategic workforce initiatives and fosters partnerships to connect job seekers with meaningful employment and support employers in meeting their talent needs. Prior to joining MassHire, Rodney spent over a decade in the food service and hospitality sector in New York City, where he held leadership roles in operations and management. He also led operations for a food service startup, developing scalable programs for corporate clients and property owners. After relocating to New Bedford in 2019, Rodney served as Director of Workforce Initiatives at the Rhode Island Food Policy Council, where he oversaw the creation and implementation of a statewide workforce program in collaboration with the RI Department of Labor and Training. A natural collaborator with a passion for systems thinking, Rodney is committed to positioning the Career Center as a hub of opportunity for the community.
Rodney lives in New Bedford, Massachusetts with his wife and two kids. He is a member of the Marion Institute’s Southcoast Food Policy Council, where he helps align regional food systems work with workforce development strategies. In his free time, he enjoys spending time outdoors, exploring local culture, and the occasional pickup basketball game.
Rodney graduated from Wesleyan University with a BA in Economics and English.
Suzanne de Vegh
Executive Director & Chief Curator, New Bedford Art Museum
Suzanne de Vegh is the Executive Director and Chief Curator at the New Bedford Art Museum. Prior to her current role, de Vegh was Program Director at the School of Continuing and Professional Studies at Pratt Institute where she collaborated with over 70 faculty to develop 11 certificate programs, and led the SCPS Gallery in downtown Manhattan.
Prior to her tenure at Pratt, de Vegh was Director of Public Programs and Audience Engagement at the American Folk Art Museum, where she was privileged to produce public programs for many award-winning exhibitions including Self-Taught Genius: Treasures from the American Folk Art Museum. A longtime leader in the cultural life of New York City, de Vegh produced programs and led gallery talks at the Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum, MoMA PS 1, the Morgan Library, and the Noguchi Museum. A major highlight in her career at Japan Society (2003-2013) was organizing the critically acclaimed exhibition: Oxherding, a collaborative meditation by two internationally known artistic visionaries, Max Gimblett and Lewis Hyde. Oxherding is based on the Song-Dynasty Chinese “Oxherding Series,” a Zen Buddhist parable of self-discovery told via pictures and verse.
de Vegh earned a B.A. in Art History from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, and an M.S.Ed. in Museum Leadership from Bank Street College. She is currently pursuing an MBA in Arts Innovation at The Global Leaders Institute.
Jennifer Vincent
Director, Career Center at University of Massachusetts Dartmouth
Jennifer Vincent is the Director of the Career Center at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth, where she leads strategic initiatives focused on improving career outcomes, employer engagement, and experiential learning across all academic levels. Her work prioritizes access, equity, and impact, with particular attention to supporting first-generation and underserved students.
In addition to her role in higher education, Jennifer serves as a Selectman in the Town of Berkley, Massachusetts, where she contributes to local policy, budgeting, and community initiatives. Her leadership experience spans municipal governance, military service, higher education, workforce development, and nonprofit service. She is actively involved in her community, serving on multiple boards and committees, and brings a strong public service ethos to all areas of her work, with a focus on collaboration, innovation, and sustainable impact.
Jennifer lives in Berkley with her husband and two children. An explorer at heart, she enjoys traveling with her family—especially to destinations with historical significance. Her commitment to community service is grounded in a deep sense of duty and a desire to make a meaningful difference through hands-on leadership, volunteerism, and civic engagement.
She holds a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) in History and Education from Bridgewater State University and a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in History from the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth. She is currently pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Educational Leadership at the University of Massachusetts Boston, with completion expected in spring 2026.
Warley J. Williams, III
Principal, Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School
Born and raised in New Bedford, Massachusetts, Warley J. Williams, III, is deeply committed to the community that shaped him. Guided by his belief in the transformative power of education, Warley’s journey from substitute teacher to principal has been a testament to perseverance, passion, and an unshakable dedication to making a difference.
Warley’s path to leadership began unexpectedly but purposefully. After being laid off from a local lumberyard, he sought a way to give back and found his calling in education. “When I got the call to substitute teach at Keith Middle School, I was so excited,” he recalls. “That first day, the kids were sizing me up, but I connected with them through real conversations—talking about their challenges, like gangs and street life. That’s when I knew I could make a positive difference in my city.”
From that moment, Warley was hooked. He began substituting at Whaling City Junior/Senior High, New Bedford’s alternative high school, where he quickly rose to the role of principal. Just three years later, he joined Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School (GNB Voc-Tech) as an assistant principal, taking on roles like National Honor Society co-advisor, track coach, and security director. These experiences further fueled his drive to lead.
In 2019, Warley returned to Keith Middle School as principal, a move driven by his desire to make an even greater impact. After two transformative years, he returned to GNB Voc-Tech, this time as principal, ready to guide the next generation of leaders.
Reflecting on his leadership, Warley emphasizes the importance of relationships with students. “I’m grateful for how the students have embraced me,” he says. “They stop me in the hallways, email me about starting committees, and share their ideas. It’s incredible to be seen as a source of support.”
For Warley, success isn’t just about titles—it’s about impact. He cherishes moments when former students greet him enthusiastically, share their accomplishments, and even recall lessons or quotes that resonated with them. “Someone once told me, ‘If you can reach just one kid, you’ll make a difference.’ I’m proud to know I’ve reached so many,” he says.
Going into his fifth year as principal of GNB Voc-Tech, Warley J. Williams, III, continues to inspire and empower students, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive—both in the classroom and beyond.
Kimberly A. Wilson
Director, UMass Dartmouth Labor Education Center
For the last ten years Kim has served as Director of the Dubin Labor Education Center at UMass Dartmouth. Previously, she was the Coordinator for Labor Education for 17 years. The Center has many areas of work and Kim is responsible for the Center’s educational programs, including a program for English for Speakers of Other Languages and GED/HiSET students in the New Bedford community with 300 adult learners. The Center works with undergraduate students, helping to match them with unions and community groups for internships. Over the years, Kim has taught classes for community and union members, promoted artistic programs, and lead coalitions including coordination with community based ESOL programs and other similar groups. Kim is a producer of the Center’s podcast entitled Southcoast Working.
As a board member for the Women’s Institute for Leadership Development (WILD), she works to provide education, training and for women in unions and community organizations in Massachusetts. Kim is a Vice President for the American Federation of Teachers Massachusetts, Executive Board member of the Faculty Federation and SE Mass Labor Council as well as the Chair of the Working Group on Higher Education for AFT MA. Kim facilitates this group and is currently building a new partnership with the American Association of University Professors. Kim has served as the Board President of the Massachusetts Coalition for Occupational Safety and Health (MassCOSH) and Secretary/Treasurer for Massachusetts Jobs with Justice.
Kim is proud to live in New Bedford and is a passionate birder, reader and enthusiast of labor history. She has an undergraduate degree from The Evergreen State College and a MS in Labor Studies from UMass Amherst.
Andrew Woodward
B.M.C Durfee High School
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