COVENANT HOUSE INTERNATIONAL - Key Persons
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board of Directors
- Managing Director / Morgan Stanley
Job Titles:
- Member of the Covenant House Leadership Team
- Executive Director, Covenant House Alaska
Alison Kear moved to Alaska in 1994 and discovered her purpose when she began volunteering with Covenant House Alaska (CHA). Her tenacity, ability to make connections, and her refusal to take no for an answer ultimately propelled Alison to the position of executive director in 2012. In a time of recession, in 2010, Alison successfully raised enough capital to construct a new building and youth center for CHA, inspiring many with her conviction, courage, and leadership.
Alison values learning and has a master's degree from Alaska Pacific University. In 2019, she was among 15 leaders selected from across the U.S. for the Annie E. Casey Foundation's Children and Family Fellowship, a 21-month leadership program.
Alison's interests include Special Olympics Alaska, Soroptimist International of Cook Inlet, Alzheimer's Association, and YWCA Alaska. She also loves to spend time with her devoted labradoodle, Lucy. At CHA, she inspires her staff by throwing 30-second dance parties for anyone with good news.
Andrew Bustillo retired from BMS Intermediaries in December, 2020, after a 36-year career in the reinsurance industry. Andrew joined BMS as chief executive officer in March of 2014. He also served as vice chairman of BMS, and chairman of BMS Capital Advisory, BMS's broker dealer. Andrew is currently pursuing a master's degree in theology from Franciscan University in Steubenville, Ohio. He also serves on the boards of Paragon Holdings and Cabrillo Holdings, managing general agencies for commercial lines and personal lines, respectively. Andrew joined the board of directors of Covenant House International in 2021. Prior to joining BMS, Andrew was the sole member of Red Bank Re, which he founded in 2009, providing advisory and reinsurance services to a broad range of (re)insurance and program manager clients. Prior to forming Red Bank Re, Andrew was executive vice president and a member of the executive committee for Benfield Inc.'s U.S. operations and responsible for Benfield's U.S. broker platform. Before that, he was a managing director at Guy Carpenter and an executive vice president at E.W. Blanch, serving on both firms' executive committees. His career began in the underwriting community in 1985, with positions at M&G Re and Constitution Reinsurance Corporation, before he joined Aon Re and transitioned to the intermediary business in 1990. In 2020, Andrew was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award by Reactions North America. Andrew holds an MBA in finance & international business from NYU Stern School of Business (1993), and graduated from Middlebury College with a B.A (1985) in economics and Spanish. He served as chair of the board and of the finance committee at Covenant House International during his previous nine-year board tenure (2009 through 2017). In 2017, Andrew joined as chair of Covenant House's Latin America development board. He continues to serve as an active member of that board, having stepped down as chair in 2021. Andrew and his family founded the PACT Foundation (Partnership Against Human Trafficking) in the Fall of 2020; its mission is to play a role in the advocacy for and care of trafficked children, with a primary focus on Latin America.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Covenant House Leadership Team
- Senior Vice President, Real Estate and Facilities
Angela has over thirty years of experience in the field of Real Estate and Construction Management. Prior to her tenure at Covenant House International, she was the Managing Director of the Culture, Health and Education Practice of Jonathan Rose Companies. Her experience has largely been with the public sector and non-profit entities to strategically plan, program, design, finance, construct and asset manage civic, cultural, institutional, and educational buildings.
Prior to rejoining Jonathan Rose Companies, Ms. Howard served as the Senior Director of Project Management for the Battery Park City Authority with responsibilities for capital planning, budgeting and project management for its large capital projects. She has also worked in the Capital Projects Department at Columbia University as well as for the Dormitory Authority of the State of NY and as a Construction Manager for Skanska and AJ Construction.
Her portfolio of projects includes restoration of the Irish Hunger Memorial and Battery Park, Post-Sandy restoration of the Athletic Fields at Battery Park City, Columbia University's Butler Library, Starr East Asia Library and Lenfest Hall (Law School Residence), Safe Horizon 50 Court Street Project, Safe Space Jamaica and Rockaway centers, OWN Charter School, FDR Four Freedoms Park, Rockefeller Center Concourse renovation and the renovation of the Public Catalog and Main Reading Rooms at the New York Public Library among many others.
She also serves as a founding Board member of Academy of the City Charter School, board member at WIN NYC and TAWAH Tanzania and education advisor to the 14+ Foundation , as well as Parish Council member at St. Augustine's RC Church in Park Slope.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Covenant House Leadership Team
- Chief Executive Officer, Covenant House Greater Washington
- Leader With 24 Years
Angela Jones Hackley is a servant leader with 24+ Years of successful leadership in non-profit management, resource development, policy analysis, philanthropy, program development, and relationship building. Most recently, Angela was named the Executive Director of Covenant House Greater Washington, the DC area's leading organization working to transform the lives of youth ages 18-24 experiencing homelessness, disconnection, and exploitation. Previously, Angela was the Interim CEO for the Wayfinder Founder, where she developed and led the foundation's investment strategy focused on invests in women of color activists across the country who are in closest proximity to social justice issues.
Prior to joining the Wayfinder Foundation, Angela served as the Interim Executive Director of the DC Children and Youth Investment Trust Corporation (DC Trust) where she led the organization through a difficult transition period and worked closely with the District of Columbia government to responsibly wind-down the organization. Additionally, before her time at the DC Trust she held several leadership positions during her 9-year tenure at the Community Foundation for the National Capital Region, including Interim President and Vice President of Philanthropic Service.
Angela's commitment to the well-being of children youth and families has extended beyond her professional positions, as she has proudly served as a member of many appointed commissions and board of directors for causes that feed her soul and passion for serving. Some of her current and past board service includes Taproot Foundation, Grantmakers for Children, Youth and Families, Voices for America's Children, and the DC Health Coordinating Council, and the United Way of the National Capital Area.
A native Washingtonian, Angela grew up in Anacostia in SE, Washington DC. She received her undergraduate degree from the University of Virginia. Angela also holds a Master's degree in Urban Planning and Policy from the University of Virginia, as well as a Certificate in Leadership Development and an MBA from the John's Hopkins University Carey School of Business. Additionally, she is a graduate of Leadership Washington Class of 2000.
Angela's greatest joy is to see the light and the promise of her 13- year old daughter, Landon. This light and promise is what she wishes for all children, as she believes it is her calling and privilege to serve.
Job Titles:
- Chief Revenue Officer
- Member of the Board of Directors
Ariana DeBose is a stage and film actor with starring roles in Steven Spielberg's "West Side Story" (film), Ryan Murphy's "The Prom" (Netflix), and on Broadway in "Hamilton," "A Bronx Tale," and "Summer: The Donna Summer Musical." Ariana was nominated for a Tony and won the Chita Rivera Award for outstanding female dancer in a Broadway show for her role in "Summer." And she was part of the original cast, alongside Lin-Manuel Miranda, of both the Broadway and off-Broadway productions of "Hamilton." In 2017, Ariana participated in her first Covenant House Sleep Out. "That night I fell in love with the young people of Covenant House and the angelic superheroes who keep their doors open. I'm so proud to serve on this board and do my part in this movement in solidarity with young people facing homelessness in the United States and worldwide."
Audra McDonald trained in classical voice at The Juilliard School and has headlined in productions such as "Carousel," "Ragtime," "A Raisin in the Sun," "110 in the Shade," "Twelfth Night," "Porgy and Bess," and "Lady Day at Emerson's Bar & Grill." She is one of the most honored actors of her generation and an entertainment legend. Having earned a record six Tony Awards, thus far, in her career, she remains one of the highest regarded and busiest women in show business. Audra resides in Westchester County with her husband, Will Swenson, and their children. "The more I've learned about what Covenant House is doing for youth facing homelessness all over the country and around the world, the more excited I've become to join this powerful movement on their behalf," Audra says. She joined the Covenant House International board of directors in the fall of 2014.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board of Directors
- Managing Director / Goldman Sachs
Job Titles:
- Chief Executive Officer
- Member of the Covenant House Leadership Team
- Member of the Leadership Team
- President
Bill Bedrossian became the President and CEO of Covenant House International in February 2023, after close to 9 years serving as the CEO of Covenant House California. During his time leading Covenant House California, he helped develop six new sites, with several more in process, while quadrupling the size of the agency's operations. Bill's passion for working with youth came from his parents, who fostered children for over 30 years and have adopted 8 of his 11 siblings through the child welfare system. Bill began his career doing street outreach, residential care, and therapy in Chicago in the 1990s. He subsequently spent 13 years with the Los Angeles County Department of Child and Family Services, leaving in 2008 as the agency's Regional Director of South County, where he helped reduce the number of children in out-of-home-care by close to 75% through an emphasis on risk mitigation, family and community support, and faith-based engagement. Bill also served as the Executive Director of Olive Crest from 2010 to 2014, overseeing the agency's foster care, adoption, group home, transitional living, mental health services, and family support operations. Bill taught in the University of Southern California (USC) Graduate School of Social Work for 5+ years, and is appointed as a Children and Family Commissioner, overseeing the Department of Children and Family Services in Los Angeles County.
Bill Livek has been in the business of measuring consumer behavior for almost four decades. As chief executive officer and executive vice chairman for Comscore, Bill's passion for the media, marketing, and entertainment industries spurs him to be a driving force for innovation in consumer and audience measurement. Prior to joining Comscore, Bill served as vice chairman and chief executive officer at Rentrak, co-president of Experian Research Services, co-chair/co-owner of Simmons Market Research Bureau, co-founder of Transactional Data Solutions (an LLC with MasterCard), and vice president of sales/marketing for Arbitron. He was a principal shareholder in Birch Research, which was later integrated into Scarborough Research, where he served as president and CEO. Bill is a member of the board of trustees for the Advertising Research Foundation and a frequent speaker at advertising industry events. He is a graduate of Southern Illinois University with a degree in media from the College of Communications.
Job Titles:
- General Manager
- Senior Vice President
Brian Cashman came to the New York Yankees organization in 1986 as a 19-year-old intern. In 1998, he became the Yankees' senior vice president and general manager, the second-youngest general manager in baseball history. An innovative leader, Brian has executed some of the major reorganizations and trades that have brought such prestige to the Yankees franchise. He has been honored as Executive of the Year four times and has received many other awards in the sports and business worlds for his acumen and leadership skills. Brian is committed to growing the Yankees brand and has promoted baseball worldwide, including in Tokyo, Beijing, and Hong Kong. A native New Yorker who grew up in Kentucky, Brian attended Catholic University, where he played intercollegiate baseball and solidified his love of the game. He is a recipient of Covenant House's Beacon of Hope Award and was elected to the Covenant House International board of directors in 2011. Philanthropy and community involvement continue to play a large role in his life.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board of Directors
- Global Head of Communications
Job Titles:
- Member of the Leadership Team
- Vice President of Development & Communications
Camden McDaris Black oversees all of Covenant House New York's fundraising efforts, including foundation, government, and local corporate grant-seeking, as well as fundraising collaborations with Covenant House International. She is also responsible for oversight of all internal and external communications, as well as Covenant House New York's volunteer program. Camden brings over a decade of fundraising experience to her role, as well as an extensive prior professional writing background.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Covenant House Leadership Team
- Interim National Director at Casa Alianza Honduras
Candida Sauceda is the Interim National Director at Casa Alianza Honduras and brings with her nearly 25 years of experience in a senior leadership role at the organization. Throughout the years she has been an integral part in establishing Casa Alianza Honduras as one of the premier children's social service organizations in Honduras. In addition to holding a Masters Degree in Education and Psychology, she has extensive expertise in leading non-profit human resource teams and sits on the board of the Honduran Christian Foundation.
Capathia Jenkins joined the board of directors of Covenant House International in December 2009. She has traveled to many of the U.S. Covenant House sites as well as the sites in Canada and Mexico and has met and spent time with the residents, showing up for the youth time and again. She has participated in many Covenant House Night Of Broadway Stars events, helping to raise money and awareness for young people experiencing homelessness. Capathia is also a member of the Broadway Sleepout committee, and in the past six years, she has helped to raise over $1 million. "The kids of Covenant House stretch my heart wider than I ever dreamed possible. They are my heroes," Capathia says. She recently released a new CD entitled "Phenomenal Woman; The Maya Angelou Songs". Capathia's Broadway credits include Newsies; Martin Short: Fame Becomes Me; Caroline, or Change; The Look of Love; and The Civil War. Additional stage credits include Nora Ephron's Love, Loss, and What I Wore; (mis)Understanding Mammy: The Hattie McDaniel Story (Drama Desk nomination); Caroline, or Change; Godspell; and The Colored Museum (Huntington Theatre Company). Capathia has been featured on original cast recordings for Martin Short: Fame Becomes Me; Caroline, or Change; Godspell; and Children of Eden. Capathia's television and film credits include The Wiz Live on NBC, 30 Rock, The Practice, Law & Order, The Sopranos, Third Watch, Law & Order: SVU, Top Five, and Musical Chairs. Capathia has appeared as a soloist with many symphony orchestras in the U.S. and abroad including Cleveland Orchestra, Cincinnati Pops, Philly Pops, National Symphony Orchestra, Hong Kong Philharmonic and Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra. Capathia is also featured on the soundtracks for Smash (seasons 1 and 2), Nine, Chicago, Mission to Mars, and Legally Blonde 2.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Covenant House Leadership Team
- Member of the Leadership Team
- Chief of People, Culture, and Inclusion
Carlette started her career at Covenant House Alaska as an intern 25 years ago. She is a second-generation Covenant House employee; her mother worked at Covenant House Alaska as a case manager for 13 years. Her passion and dedication to serving youth led her to positions such as Program Coordinator for Rights of Passage, Director of External Affairs for Covenant House Washington. In 2017, Carlette served as Interim Executive Director of Covenant House Illinois, helping establish Covenant House's newest site in Chicago. For the past eight years, Carlette has served as Chief Operating Officer for Covenant House Alaska.
Carlette is a trained clinical therapist with a primary focus on therapy with children and teens, having received her bachelor's degree in Psychology and her master's in Counseling Psychology, both from Alaska Pacific University. She is recognized for innovative program development and implementation, strategic planning, is a driving force behind agency collaboration with local partners, and has demonstrated management and leadership skills. She has strong integrity, and a passion for ensuring the well-being and quality of life for youth experiencing homelessness.
Carlette's nickname is "Quiet Thunder" but do not let her quiet demeanor fool you - she loves talking about Covenant House and working to find solutions to better the lives of the young people we serve! Her favorite quote is: "I maintain the power to define who I am.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Covenant House Leadership Team
- Senior Vice President, Integrated Direct Marketing
Daniel Karp joined the staff of Covenant House International (CHI) in 2019. For nearly 20 years, he has partnered with domestic and international agencies to save lives, lift communities out of poverty, promote human rights and the arts, and safeguard health.
Daniel comes to Covenant House from the USO, where, as vice president for direct response, he helped connect the men and women of the U.S. armed forces to family, home, and country throughout their service. With a strong foundation and personal commitment to social justice, Daniel joins Covenant House seeking to address the immediate needs of young people experiencing homelessness. He envisions a world where no child is without a home.
Daniel grew up in Connecticut. He and his wife have two children.
David Eklund was elected to the Covenant House International board of directors in December 2014 shortly after being honored at our gala, "A Night of Broadway Stars," in June 2013. The chair of Aeolus Re, Ltd since 2006 and a founding partner of Aeolus Capital Management since 2011, David had previously served as president and chief underwriting officer of Renaissance Re until 2004 and was part of the original founding management team in 1993. His career in reinsurance began in 1983, following his graduation from the College of William and Mary a year earlier. David has been deeply involved with Covenant House events and other charitable causes, including the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital, William and Mary, Duke University, Illinois State University, and Davidson College, and has served on other boards as well. He and his wife, Jeanine, have four children and live in Naples, Florida.
David Acker is the former president & CEO of Sleepy's, the Mattress Professionals. Under David's leadership, Sleepy's grew to over 1,000 locations to become the country's largest specialty mattress retailer. Among David's accomplishments, the most significant was the close-knit community of 3,300+ employees that made up the Sleepy's family. David and his family sold the business in 2016. Today, David oversees the Acker Family Office and leads its commitment to giving back to the community by way of the Acker Family Philanthropy Group. He and his sons manage their own Bespoke investment group, Imagine Holdings LLC. The family serves as board members and supports organizations in three key primary areas: health care, education and child welfare. Some organizations include: Spence-Chapin Family Services, Covenant House International, Northside Center for Child Development, The Student Leadership Network, SCOPE, and Northwell's Feinstein Institute. David resides on Long Island and New York City with his wife, Andrea, to whom he has been married for over 35 years. They have two sons, Julian and Spencer, and five grandchildren. The family loves spending time together outside, staying healthy and fit, music, theater, and traveling.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Covenant House Leadership Team
- Senior Vice President, Research, Evaluation & Learning
David B. Howard, MSW, PhD, has more than 20 years of professional experience in the nonprofit sector, including senior management, program planning and evaluation, data management and analysis, fundraising, and direct care. David currently serves as the Senior Vice President of Research, Evaluation & Learning, leading our strategic efforts to achieve positive outcomes for and with youth facing homelessness. David's team oversees our performance management initiatives and has helped Covenant House become a learning organization that embraces and implements rigorous performance measurement, continual quality improvement, and program excellence.
Prior to his work at Covenant House, David was the Director of Research and Innovation at The Doe Fund, one of the most successful nonprofit housing and workforce development providers working with homeless and formerly incarcerated individuals in the United States. He was also a researcher at the UCLA Center for Civil Society, where he co-authored numerous reports on the nonprofit and philanthropic sector. David has presented research findings to diverse audiences at national and international conferences. David has taught graduate-level coursework on program planning, design, evaluation, and grant writing, with current adjunct appointments at Columbia University and NYU.
David is a graduate of the UCLA Luskin School of Public Affairs, where he earned his doctorate and a master's in social welfare, and University of California, Berkeley, where he received his bachelor's degree.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board of Directors
- Executive Vice President, Chief Accounting Officer & Corporate Controller / Santander
David Hegarty served as president and chief operating officer of Diversified Healthcare Trust from its inception in 1999 to his retirement in 2018. Diversified Healthcare Trust is one of the largest publicly traded real estate investment trusts specializing in investing in senior housing and medical-related real estate in the United States. David has also served in several executive officer positions for The RMR Group and its predecessors from 1986 to 2018. The RMR Group is a publicly traded alternative asset management company that oversees $30 billion of office, industrial, health care, and hospitality real estate and investments. David is a certified public accountant, formerly with Ernst & Young, and is involved in several professional organizations and nonprofit boards. He is a graduate of the University of Massachusetts at Amherst.
Job Titles:
- Chief Operating Officer
- Member of the Covenant House Leadership Team
- in 1990 As a Member
Deirdre Cronin joined Covenant House in 1990 as a member of our Faith Community. She served in various positions at Covenant House New York, including intake coordinator, program services coordinator, and quality assurance director, until March 1995. Sr. Mary Rose McGeady, then president and CEO of Covenant House International, subsequently appointed her executive director of Covenant House Alaska (CHA).
Deirdre's many accomplishments in Alaska during her 18-year tenure set a very high bar for effective leadership. The number of young people facing homelessness whom CHA served annually grew sixfold, the agency's budget quintupled, and CHA achieved the single largest capital campaign success in Covenant House history. Those funds allowed Deirdre to bring to fruition the construction of a new, purpose-built, 40,000-square-foot Covenant House for young people facing homelessness and human trafficking in Alaska.
Deirdre achieved in Alaska what Covenant House aspires to achieve across all six countries where we work: a movement. Business leaders, volunteers, mentors, coaches, politicians, philanthropists, and youth all responded to her central message that every young person has a right to shelter.
Job Titles:
- CFO / the Goldman Sachs Group Inc.
- Chief Financial Officer of the Goldman Sachs Group Inc
Denis Coleman is the chief financial officer of The Goldman Sachs Group Inc. Denis joined Goldman Sachs in 1996 and became a vice president in 2001, managing director in 2005, and partner in 2008. In joining the Covenant House International board of directors in 2018, Denis remarked, "What a privilege it is to serve an organization like Covenant House, which is committed to positively impacting the lives of so many vulnerable children across the globe."
Job Titles:
- Member of the Covenant House Leadership Team
- Executive Director, Covenant House Georgia
Dr. Alie Redd joined the Covenant House Georgia (CHGA) team in March 2018, bringing 28 years of experience in the field of social work. Alie previously served as vice president of placement services at CHRIS 180, overseeing the organization's therapeutic group homes, street outreach, community housing, permanent supportive housing, transitional living programs, drop-in center, and supportive services. Prior to that, Alie worked for Lutheran Services of Georgia. She has served various populations as a direct-service provider, clinician, clinical supervisor, advocate, advisor, administrator, and executive leader.
Alie earned a bachelor's in psychology from the University of Memphis and a master's in social work and a doctorate in social work policy planning administration and social science with a cognate in public administration from Clark Atlanta University. She has been continuously licensed as a licensed clinical social worker since 2000. Her areas of research interest include: social and child welfare policy; commercial sexual exploitation of children; secondary trauma of social workers; refugees and immigration; racial identity; youth homelessness; and military families.
Job Titles:
- Psychiatrist
- Consulting Psychiatrist
April Hunziker, M.D., is a consulting psychiatrist specializing in medically complex hospitalized patients at six hospitals in the Seattle area. As a youth, in Anchorage, Alaska, April experienced homelessness. She became a resident of Covenant House at the age of 13 and graduated from high school through a partnership between Covenant House and the University of Alaska. April went on to graduate with a B.S. in microbiology from the University of Washington and was awarded a research fellowship in emerging infectious diseases by the Centers for Disease Control. April earned her medical degree from the University of Washington, with a clinical focus on the vulnerable and underserved. She was selected to continue her postgraduate specialty training in psychiatry and neurology at the University of Washington, completing this in 2019 with distinction in perinatal psychiatry and in community leadership. April is a proud and grateful alumna of Covenant House, who has twice been the keynote speaker at the Covenant House Alaska Fire & Ice Ball. Her home is in West Seattle, Washington, with her young daughter, Ruby and her adult son, Casey.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Covenant House Leadership Team
- National Director of Asociación La Alianza
- National Director, Asociacion La Alianza - Guatemala
Dr. Carolina Escobar Sarti has been the national director of Asociación La Alianza since 2010. She is one of Guatemala's most recognized poets, authors, and national newspaper columnists and writes regularly on human rights issues. Carolina is devoted to the children and youth in La Alianza's care. She holds a doctorate in sociology and political science from the University of Salamanca, Spain; a master's in Hispanoamerican literature from Rafael Landivar University in Guatemala; and degrees and diplomas in psychopedagogy, education, and research. She teaches at the university level and is engaged in social research. Guatemala's president named Carolina the country's Ambassador for Peace in 2011. On November 5, 2019, Carolina Escobar Sarti (National Director of La Alianza) receives the Olof Palme Medallion from the Olof Palme International Foundation in Barcelona, Spain. The Medal is bestowed in recognition of those who have fostered Olof Palme's legacy to the world: the defense of human rights, commitment to peace, resolution of conflicts, and sustainable development.
Job Titles:
- Pediatrician
- Pediatrician / Adolescent Medicine / Children 's Hospital of Philadelphia
Dr. Merrian Brooks is a pediatrician and adolescent medicine specialist at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP). She was born in Virginia and raised all over the United States, moving with her father, who was in the military, and her mother and brother. She attended the University of Pittsburgh on the Helen Faison Scholarship for her undergraduate studies, with majors in neuroscience and the history and philosophy of science, graduating with a B.S. and B.Phil. from the University's' honors college. She later received a master's degree from Pitt, with a focus on clinical science. She went to medical school at Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine, where she earned her D.O. degree and was selected to serve as a primary care teaching fellow as a senior medical student. There, she mentored her first students, a task she has continued, now mentoring several undergraduate and medical students. Merrian is a board-certified pediatrician, after completing residency at Cooper Children's Regional Hospital in Camden, New Jersey. She also is a board-certified adolescent medicine physician, having finished her fellowship in the specialty. She has provided primary medical care to young people at both Covenant House Pennsylvania and Covenant House New Jersey. Currently, she spends most of the year in Gaborone, Botswana, in Southern Africa, doing work she started as a CHOP David Pincus Pediatric Global Health fellow. She is now an attending physician in adolescent medicine in the Craig Dalsimer Division of Adolescent Medicine at CHOP and an instructor of pediatrics at the University of Pennsylvania's Perelman School of Medicine. Merrian also does research related to mental health interventions for adolescents living with HIV. She is profoundly interested in improving the health and well-being of adolescents in low- and middle-income countries and underserved youth in the United States.
Job Titles:
- Interim Executive Director
- Leader
- Member of the Leadership Team
Shakeema North is a servant leader with a passion for youth and community development who has committed her life's work to empowering young people to reach their fullest potential, despite the challenges many of them have faced. She has an exceptional ability to develop holistic and inclusive youth development initiatives that are strengths-based, trauma-informed, healing centered, and geared toward serving marginalized youth in search of hope and healing. Shakeema is skilled at designing strategic programs, preparing thought-provoking workshops and seminars, facilitating community-based campaigns, and improving overall organizational productivity. Prior to joining Covenant House New York in 2015, Shakeema worked for over 10 years as a marketing and production professional with HBO. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science from North Carolina A&T State University and her Master of Divinity degree from New York Theological Seminary. She is a 2017 Faith and Justice Fellow at the Federation of Protestant Welfare Agencies, and a 2014 Fellow of the Black Theology and Leadership Institute at Princeton Theological Seminary. In May 2020, Shakeema received the Doctor of Ministry degree in Leadership in the Christian Tradition at Duke Divinity School.
Job Titles:
- Executive Vice President and Chief People and Inclusion Officer / Universal Music Group
- Industry Expert
Eric Hutcherson is a leading industry expert in building talent, fostering inclusion, and amplifying culture. In September 2020, Eric joined Universal Music Group (UMG), the world leader in music-based entertainment, as UMG's executive vice president and chief people and inclusion officer, a newly created position that will work across UMG's record labels, publishing division and operating companies worldwide. Eric works closely with UMG's senior management team to align UMG's talent functions; globally amplify the company's entrepreneurial-based culture; accelerate diversity and inclusion across all levels and territories; attract, retain and develop talent; accelerate the company's social justice initiatives; and build on the company's successful track record of driving innovation by recruiting employees who bring new ideas, perspectives, and skill sets. Previously, Eric worked with the National Basketball Association (NBA), where he managed a staff that drove a global workforce strategy built on attracting, retaining, developing, and engaging top talent for the NBA and its affiliates, such as the WNBA, NBA G League, and NBA 2K League. Eric was responsible for leading global projects, processes, and analytics to address business needs, as well as partnering with the leagues' senior leadership to enable, empower, and develop employees in 13 U.S. and international offices, guided by the league's strategic direction. Eric holds a Bachelor of Science in political science from New York University and a Master of Science in sports management and administration from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. Prior to joining the board of Covenant House International, Eric served on the board of directors of Covenant House New York. He lives in Los Angeles with his wife and two sons.
Ernado Jason Villanueva Sr. is a proud second-generation New Yorker of Puerto Rican descent. Jason has worked in the construction industry for over 10 years. As a project executive, he is responsible for project implementation, consultation, and program management for various real estate developments throughout the greater New York City area. When Jason is not busy strategizing and building essential construction projects, he is actively involved in the not-for-profit sector. He proudly volunteers with Manhattan Community Board 11, of which he is treasurer. He also chairs the District Needs Committee, where he applies his professional background to district budget considerations. Jason also serves on the Positive Workforce board of directors. Jason resides in Queens, New York. He graduated from the Rights of Passage Program at Covenant House New York in 2006 and obtained his bachelor's degree from CUNY College in 2009. He is dedicated to advocating for equal employment opportunities for local and minority trade workers. As a successful professional, community activist, workforce advocate, public service member, husband to a beautiful wife, and father of two precious sons, Jason attributes his passion for service to humble beginnings. Since becoming part of the Covenant House family, he has forged a path toward what he defines as the "balance of success and service" for the greater good. He is moved by this principle: Be the guiding light for those in darkness and spark the conversations that will inspire change for the oppressed.
Job Titles:
- Wealthspire Advisor
- Director, Division of Pediatric Emergency Medicine
Job Titles:
- Member of the Covenant House Leadership Team
- Senior Vice President, Development Operations
A graduate of Seton Hall University, Gina Butler VonDerHeide began her career as a real estate paralegal at Sills Cummis in Newark, New Jersey. During her tenure at the firm, she acquired her master's degree in public administration at Rutgers University, where a referral from a professor to Covenant House changed her life. She made a phone call to inquire about an internship she needed to complete her degree and never looked back! Gina started at Covenant House New Jersey in 2008 as a development manager, learning the ropes of fundraising and strategic planning. She found herself inspired and motivated by both the staff and youth she worked with (and still does). In 2011, Gina was given the opportunity to lead an initiative called "Peer to Peer Fundraising" at Covenant House International. After years of countless Sleep Outs and Home Team races, she moved into the role of senior vice president for development operations in 2018. Gina lives in New Jersey with her growing family.
Job Titles:
- Wealthspire Advisor
- HR Director, GMS
Job Titles:
- Program Manager / PECO Pallet Inc.
Hannah Collier has been active in the field of business and technology for over twenty years, focusing on management information systems (MIS), SaaS cloud, project management, and organizational management. Hannah has volunteered for organizations such as United Way VIP, Hands on Atlanta, Black Girls Code, Women Who Code, Project Management Institute, PMI Educational Foundation, and ISACA International. She has over seven years of experience as a communications adjunct professor in the arts and humanities department for students throughout Georgia State University Campuses. Hannah currently serves as program manager at PECO and has worked in local government and Fortune 500 companies.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Covenant House Leadership Team
- National Director, Casa Alianza Nicaragua
Iraiz Castillo Cuadra is a native of Nicaragua, she is a psychologist with a Master's degree in Management and Administration for Rural Development, in Project Formulation; with a specialty in Social Education, and Reading Skills Development for Primary Education. She is also trained in Emotion Management focused on mindfulness, holistic development and psychosocial care for children, adolescents, and youth.
Iraiz has more than 20 years of work experience with the most vulnerable girls, boys, adolescents, and young people, in conditions of extreme poverty, abandonment and lack of protection. Iraiz spent most of her career working at international organizations that defend the rights and guarantee the social, family and educational insertion of this group at risk.
She worked with World Vision Nicaragua, Save the Children, Ayuda en Acción and was a consultant for SOS Children's Villages, Comunica and Educo. Iraiz has experience in effectively leading the partnership with organizations, local foundations, universities, and government agencies to achieve the mission and vision of the organizations she has represented.
She considers herself an empathetic professional, who is open to change, highly resilient and capable of leading her team with efficiency, quality and warmth, to continue serving the most vulnerable children, adolescents and youth in Nicaragua.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board of Directors
- Partner
- Principal
Job Titles:
- Trustee / the Valerie Fund
Janet M. Keating joined the Covenant House International board of directors in November 2006. She has served on The Valerie Fund board of trustees since 1990 and as its chair for eight years. She also serves on the board of trustees of the Trinity Pawling School in Pawling, New York. A native of New Jersey, Janet has extensive background in board work and facilitation, as well as public speaking. In June 2014, Janet, along with fellow Covenant House board member Mark Hennessy, was honored by the board at our annual gala, "A Night of Broadway Stars." After serving nine years on the Covenant House International board, and having a year's respite, Janet was re-elected to the board in December 2016.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Leadership Team
- Vice President of Advocacy
Jayne Bigelsen's background is a mixture of law, psychology, communications, non-profit management and public policy. She is a dedicated advocate committed to assisting vulnerable populations, including young people experiencing homelessness and survivors of human trafficking and domestic violence, as they find their way to freedom.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Covenant House Leadership Team
- Executive Director, Covenant House Pennsylvania
Jen Weikert joined Covenant House Philadelphia is December 2019 coming from College Possible Philadelphia, a college access and success nonprofit. At College Possible, Jen worked to make college admission and success possible for low-income students through an intensive curriculum of coaching and support. Her expertise and passion for helping young people will open more doors of opportunity for the resilient young people at Covenant House Pennsylvania."
Before College Possible, Weikert served as chief development officer for Children's Literacy Initiative (CLI), vice president at MCL Consulting, an adjunct professor at Temple University, and executive director of the YWCA of Philadelphia.
She was a board member and officer of Green Woods Charter School from 2014 to 2018; she currently serves on the boards of Coded by Kids and The Support Site Foundation.
Weikert holds a bachelor's degree from La Salle University, a master's from the National University of Ireland, Cork, and a certificate in fundraising from the University of Pennsylvania.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Covenant House Leadership Team
- Chief Executive Officer, Covenant House Missouri
Before joining the team of devoted staff at Covenant House Missouri (CHMO) as chief executive officer in 2018, Jessica Erfling served for four years as chief operating officer for Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri. There, she guided the organization to substantial growth, transforming the Eastern Missouri Council into the sixth largest of 112 Girl Scout councils across the United States. She doubled resident-camp enrollment and significantly increased community collaboration and investment. Prior to that, Jessica served as vice president of operations for Sunnyhill, Inc., an organization that provides residential support, recreation, and educational opportunities for youth and adults with disabilities.
Jessica received her master's in social work from St. Louis University and a bachelor's from Southern Illinois University. She serves on the executive committee of the board of directors of Rainbow Village, a community nonprofit that provides neighborhood homes for people with developmental disabilities in the St. Louis area.
Job Titles:
- Chief Development Officer
- Member of the Covenant House Leadership Team
Since 1993, Jill Vorndran has focused her energies on missions and movements that support young people to harness their considerable power and affect change. As a founder of Do Something, she organized and taught alongside other young people to create community development in Newark, NJ. Thereafter, she joined Covenant House's movement to support young people to overcome homelessness and live their lives dreams. After a variety of leadership roles within the organization since 1999, she now serves as Covenant House's Chief Development Officer, leading the movement's efforts to grow support, financial stability and brand awareness. A lifelong Jersey girl, Jill is a graduate of Rutgers College and Seton Hall University School of Law and lives in Kenilworth, NJ with her husband Sean and their four teenagers.
Job Titles:
- Executive Director, Covenant House New Jersey
Jim White has devoted his life to helping young people in crisis overcome their circumstances and move forward to a life and a future that are good. He has been executive director of Covenant House New Jersey (CHNJ) since 2013.
Jim began his career with Covenant House in 1982 and has held executive positions at Covenant House International as well as at CHNJ. In 1985, he co-founded Rights of Passage, Covenant House's transitional living program for youth overcoming homelessness. He is co-author of the groundbreaking study, "Recognizing Trafficking Among Homeless Youth," and helped develop a tool for quickly identifying the trafficking experience among young people facing homelessness and getting them the trauma-informed care they need in a timely manner.
Jim holds a master's in social work from Stony Brook University and a Master of Business Administration from Long Island University.
Job Titles:
- Analyst
- Chief
- Chief Political Analyst and Senior National Correspondent
- Contributor
John Dickerson is CBS chief political analyst, senior national correspondent and contributor to "CBS Sunday Morning." and a member of the team of the legendary news program"60 Minutes." Previously, he was a contributor to "60 Minutes," co-anchored "CBS This Morning," served as CBS News' chief Washington correspondent, and anchored "Face The Nation." John is also a contributor to Slate's "Political Gabfest" podcast and a contributing editor to The Atlantic. He is the author of the 2021 national best seller, "The Hardest Job in the World: the American Presidency." John joined CBS News in 2009 as an analyst and contributor. For six years he was the network's political director and during the 2016 presidential campaign, he moderated CBS News' two presidential debates. John graduated with distinction from the University of Virginia with a bachelor's degree in English and a specialty in American studies. He joined the Covenant House International board of directors in 2018.
John Ducoff currently serves as chief legal officer for Covenant House International (CHI). For the past five years, through March 2019, he was executive director of Covenant House Pennsylvania (CHPA), the affiliate responsible for operating programs in Pennsylvania. During his tenure, CHPA increased the size of its emergency shelter program in Philadelphia by 50%, created a new permanent housing program for youth, and expanded outside Philadelphia for the first time in CHPA's 20-year history, opening a 10-bed shelter, drop-in center, and street outreach program in the city of York.
This is John's second service at CHI. Previously, he served as senior vice president for strategic planning, where he led an initiative across all Covenant House affiliates to deploy a common programmatic database and use data as a management tool to achieve better outcomes for young people.
Before coming to Covenant House, John was deputy commissioner for child welfare reform at the New Jersey Department of Children and Families, where he was responsible for leading a statewide initiative to reform New Jersey's child welfare system and for the development and deployment of an agency-wide information technology system to 7,000 caseworkers. An attorney by training, John previously practiced law at Latham and Watkins, L.L.P., and clerked for the Supreme Court of New Jersey.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Leadership Team
- Senior Vice President, Transformational Giving
Joiel leads an ambitious effort to sustain and grow Covenant House International's major and planned giving programs. In addition, Joiel helps engage and retain donors with a commitment to cross-channel collaboration.
Joiel joins Covenant House from Centene Corporation where she served as the Director of Marketing and Communication. In this role, she led the sales marketing outreach and events team across three U.S. regions. As a champion of strategic partnerships and personal transformation, Joiel is highly skilled at bringing people and teams together for the greater good. As a leader at designing large scale campaigns, she pioneered innovative lead generation, sales, and member engagement tactics in several industries.
Her career spans from a health insurance startup to Fortune 100 and 200 companies and higher education. Previous leadership roles were held by Joiel at Centene Corporation, a large multi-line managed care company and the State University of New York, the largest public university system in the United States.
Joiel holds a Master of Science degree from Fordham University in Strategic Marketing Communications and is certified in Thoughtful Leadership Coaching from The Gabelli School of Business. Joiel resides in Manhattan, NY with her husband Thomas. They have three adult children and a family dog, Samba.
Job Titles:
- Founder, CEO, CIO / JDC - JSC Opportunity Fund
- Founder, Chief Executive Officer, and Chief Investment Officer of the JDC - JSC Opportunity Fund
Jon S. Corzine is the founder, chief executive officer, and chief investment officer of the JDC-JSC Opportunity Fund, a global macro/event-driven hedge fund launched in 2018. Prior to founding JDC-JSC, he managed his family office, actively investing and overseeing his philanthropic activities. Jon served the state of New Jersey as a United States senator from 2001-2006 and as its 54th governor from 2006-2010. As senator, he served on the Banking, Intelligence, Foreign Relations, Budget, Energy and Joint Economic Committees. As Governor, he implemented policies to support children and families, including reforming education funding, instituting early childhood education, providing paid family leave and expanding the earned income tax credit. He also focused on infrastructure financing and criminal justice reform, including abolishing the death penalty. Prior to entering public service, Jon served as the senior partner of Goldman Sachs from 1994-1999, transforming it from a private partnership into a public company. He began his career at Goldman Sachs in 1976 as a bond trader and joined the Management Committee in 1984. He served as CFO from 1991-1994 and chairman and CEO of MF Global from March 2010 until October 2011. Jon was born in the farming community of Taylorville, Illinois. He received a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Illinois in 1969, graduating Phi Beta Kappa, and earned his MBA from the University of Chicago in 1975. He served in the United States Marine Corps (R) from 1969-1975. Jon is married and lives in Manhattan. He has two surviving children and five grandchildren.
Job Titles:
- Co - Founder / Needle Productions LLC
Ken Willman joined the board of Covenant House International in June 2020 after serving on the board of Covenant House New York since 2003. He is the former chief legal officer of Russell Investments, where he was responsible for the compliance, global risk management, government and community relations, internal audit, and legal departments. Ken also served on the boards of numerous Russell Investments operating entities and fund complexes in countries around the world. He joined Russell Investments after 16 years with Goldman Sachs in London and Hong Kong, which included serving as general counsel of the Investment Banking Division and general counsel of Asia-Ex Japan. Ken began his legal career as a clerk for United States District Court Judge James L. Latchum before practicing with Sullivan & Cromwell in New York and Tokyo. Ken also serves on the boards of The 5th Avenue Theatre in Seattle and the University of Puget Sound, where he studied economics, and politics and government. He served on the board of advisors of the Institute of Law and Economics at the University of Pennsylvania Law School, where he did his legal studies. Over the past decade, Ken and his wife, Rosemary, have become increasingly involved in commercial and nonprofit theatre in New York, London, Seattle, and elsewhere. They have three young adult children and split their time between Seattle and New York.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Leadership Team
- President
Job Titles:
- Member of the Covenant House International Board of Directors
- Retired Attorney, Former General Counsel / Chase Manhattan Bank
Ed Shaw has been a loyal member of the Covenant House International board of directors for more than three decades. He was most recently re-elected to our board in November 2012, after a period during which he served as advisor to the president and board following the end of his term in 2011. Ed had previously served on the Covenant House board for 11 years, from 1988 to 1999, including three years as chair, from 1991 to 1993. A graduate of Georgetown University and Yale Law School, he began his career at a major New York law firm where he was a partner specializing in international and corporate transactions. Subsequently, he had senior legal and executive roles at a number of institutions, including Chase Manhattan Bank and Aetna and he served as special counsel to the board of directors of the New York Stock Exchange. He emphasized high ethical standards and fairness throughout his career. He also has served as a member of several corporate and not-for-profit boards, including Legal Aid Society and the Board of Regents of Georgetown University.
Lauren Aguiar, elected to the board of Covenant House International in 2012, is a litigation partner at Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP. She represents U.S. and international clients in a broad range of complex civil litigation matters in both federal and state court, including intellectual property disputes, breach of contract and fiduciary duty litigation, joint venture and partnership disputes, and shareholder class actions. Throughout her career, she has been involved in numerous high profile trials across the country. Lauren serves on the board of directors and the executive committee of New York Lawyers for the Public Interest and is the chair of the Skadden Foundation. Lauren lives in Harlem with her son.
We are so excited that our Director of Data Systems, Laurie Berarducci, has been honored as part of New York Nonprofit Media's 40 Under 40! Laurie is a valued member of CHNY's Program Compliance and Performance Measurement (PCPM) team.
Job Titles:
- Executive Director, Covenant House Texas
Leslie Bourne joined Covenant House Texas (CHT) as executive director in January 2017. Previously, she was the CEO of Ronald McDonald House Houston for nine and a half years. She worked at The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, developing and implementing programs for the Children's Cancer Hospital.
Leslie is a graduate of the University of Texas Health Science Center at Dallas. She has done graduate studies in social work and holds a master's in health care administration from Texas Women's University.
Job Titles:
- SVP Operations & Site Support
Coming to Covenant House International in 2017, Leslie is responsible for integrating the site-facing and support functions at our headquarters, overseeing the Program, Research, Evaluation & Learning, Child & Youth Protection and Site Support departments as well as leading our enterprise risk management work. Leslie brings nearly 25 years of non-profit leadership and program experience both nationally and internationally at organizations serving vulnerable populations. Leslie graduated from Lafayette College with a degree in Psychology and earned a Master's Degree in Social Work from University of Michigan.
Job Titles:
- Managing Director, Head of Public Policy
Job Titles:
- Chief
- Member of the Leadership Team
- Program Officer
Lisa has devoted her career to supporting young people. Lisa formerly served as VP of Justice for Youth and Family Programs at Rising Ground, where she oversaw all residential and community-based juvenile justice program. She also led the design and implementation of multiple system reform efforts in her previous roles at the NYC Administration for Children's Services (ACS) and the Department of Juvenile Justice. Lisa is a licensed social worker with a Bachelor of Social Work from the University of Kansas and a Master of Science in Social Work from Columbia University.
Job Titles:
- Senior Vice President, Program Operations and Advocacy
Lori Maloney joined Covenant House International (CHI) in January 2016 and became senior vice president for program operations and advocacy in December 2017.
Prior to joining Covenant House, she was an executive vice president and partner in JANUS Solutions, one of the mid-Atlantic region's most respected human services consulting firms. The firm works with nonprofits and government leaders, turning ideas into results.
Lori has more than 25 years' experience advocating for social change and implementing cutting-edge programs that result in positive outcomes for children, youth, and families. At CHI, she provides programmatic and operational support to our affiliate sites as a site liaison. In addition, Lori leads our federal advocacy agenda, advancing our mission, and fostering our international movement to prevent and end youth homelessness.
Lori graduated from Kean University and received her master's from Rutgers University, where she was an Eagleton Fellow at the Eagleton Institute of Politics.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board of Directors
- General Auditor / Member of the Operating Committee / J.P. Morgan Chase & Co.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Leadership Team
- Vice President of Operational Controllership
Maria "Rannie" Morota joined Covenant House New York in September 2019 as a Controller and assumed the position of VP Operational Controllership in January 2021. She brings over 20 years of experience in finance and accounting in non-profit organizations such as Teach for America, Turnaround for Children and Environmental Defense Fund. She also had IT experience as a Consultant for IBM projects . Rannie is most proud to be involved in organizations that promote children and youth education and well-being.
Job Titles:
- Executive Director, Covenant House Toronto
Mark has dedicated his career to taking action against poverty and homelessness and brings a unique passion and specialized knowledge to Canada's largest agency serving youth who are homeless, trafficked or at risk.
Mark has more than 20 years' experience in the not-for-profit sector. First as Executive Director and, later, as CEO of Fred Victor, he transformed the organization into one of the leading agencies addressing homelessness and poverty in Toronto. He has extensive and varied experience in public policy development, system change initiatives, Board and sector leadership, revenue development and volunteerism.
Mark is committed to improving the quality of life and providing opportunities for people experiencing hardship, poverty and homelessness. To this end, he founded and leads the Toronto Alliance to End Homelessness, a volunteer organization comprised of 50 organizations-including Covenant House-focused on ending chronic homelessness in Toronto.
Mark brings a shared focus of respect, compassion and unconditional love to the work we do supporting youth who are transforming their lives and exploring their potential.
Job Titles:
- Senior Vice President
- Senior Vice President Global Services and Software Sales / Cisco
Mark Dodds is senior vice president of global services and sSoftware sales at Cisco. Mark and his team are responsible for accelerating Cisco's transformation to recurring revenue. Previously, Mark led the Americas Global Enterprise Segment, Cisco's largest sales theater, where he oversaw the company's engagement with 500 of its largest and most strategic clients, representing $10 billion in annual revenue. Mark is well known for his ability to build and inspire teams. He believes customer success is directly related to an engaged team and is a champion for driving a diverse, inclusive and positive environment. Over the past 21 years at Cisco, Mark has held several sales leadership roles across Cisco's largest vertical markets, including global financial services, manufacturing, retail, oil & gas, and health care, and led global teams while based in the southeastern and northeastern United States as well as during a three-year assignment in the United Kingdom. Prior to joining Cisco, he held marketing and sales leadership positions at IBM and SCANA Corporation. Passionate about giving back and its connection to company culture, Mark actively supports nonprofit organizations and Cisco's corporate citizenship activities. He serves as co-sponsor of Cisco's Connected Black Professionals employee resource organization and leads the company's initiative to address the challenge of teen homelessness through support of Covenant House. Mark currently serves on the board of the Cisco Foundation and board of directors for Covenant House International and has served on various boards and committees in support of the American Heart Association, American Cancer Society, and Boys & Girls Clubs. Mark graduated summa cum laude from Clemson University.
Mark Hennessy recently retired as an IBM vice president responsible for all aspects of IBM's North America business in the retail, consumer products, and travel and transportation industries. He was previously a general manager of IBM Global Business Partners, as well as vice president and chief information officer for IBM. Through his career, Mark has held a diverse series of general management positions with responsibility for North America, Asia, and global business units. A graduate of Boston College, Mark earned a B.A. in economics in 1980. In 1990, he earned a Master of Business Administration from the University of Chicago. Mark and his wife, Tracey, live in Westport, Connecticut, and have two children. Mark was instrumental in creating our Covenant House site in Chicago and is serving as the first chair of that site's board of directors.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board of Directors
Mary Sullivan has been involved with Covenant House since she joined our Faith Community in 1990. She worked in our shelter in Toronto, Canada, before serving as the ombudsman at the New York crisis shelter. She remained an engaged Covenant House Faith Community alumna while she and her husband, Jay, raised their four children in Pleasantville, New York. Mary has served on the board of directors of Dot Foods, Inc., an international food redistribution company, and as trustee for the Tracy Family Foundation. Currently, she serves on the board of trustees for Dominican Academy in New York City. Mary served on the Covenant House New York board of directors for six years and joined the Covenant House International board in 2017.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board of Directors
- Senior Executive Vice President
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board of Directors
- Chairman and Chief Executive Officer / Henegan Construction Co., Inc.
Job Titles:
- Chief Executive Officer at Covenant House of Michigan
- Executive Director, Covenant House Michigan
Meagan Dunn is a passionate advocate for vulnerable youth and families with over 15 years as a successful non-profit leader. Throughout her career, Dunn has focused on improving health outcomes for marginalized families across the state of Michigan. She has successfully managed community health programs that focus on the social determinants of health, particularly affordable housing and workforce development.
As the Chief Executive Officer at Covenant House of Michigan, Meagan provides strategic leadership in the areas of development, strategic planning and leadership, and fiscal management.
Prior to joining Covenant House of Michigan, Dunn served as the Vice President of Programs at the YWCA of Kalamazoo. In this role, Meagan was responsible for providing leadership for the agency's programs. The agency's focus areas include: advocacy and systems change; improving the lives of children; caring for victims of abuse; promoting maternal and child health and program evaluation and monitoring. Prior to joining the YWCA, Dunn was the director of community outreach and partnerships for Detroit based Henry Ford Health System. Dunn was responsible for the health system's community investments and led stakeholder engagement for all of Henry Ford's community/economic development projects.
Dunn is a proud native Detroiter, where she and her husband and their three children reside. She is an avid runner and is passionate about community and economic empowerment. Meagan is a graduate of the University of Michigan - Ann Arbor and holds a MBA from Michigan State University's Eli Broad School of Business.
Job Titles:
- Director of Philanthropy / Adams Family Foundation
- Director of Philanthropy for the Adams Family Foundation
Nannette Hendel currently serves as the director of philanthropy for the Adams Family Foundation. Over the course of her lifetime, Nannette has dedicated much of her time and attention to various nonprofit organizations around the world. Covenant House has held a special place in her heart for our mission and efforts to help young people facing homelessness. Nannette's commitment to combating youth homelessness is inspired by family history. Her grandfather found himself without a home at age 14, but because of the help of others, he was ultimately able to live a meaningful life as a husband, father, grandfather, and successful businessman. As an adult, he dedicated himself to giving back to young people facing homelessness by creating jobs and opportunities for young adults in his neighborhood. For many years he used one of his restaurants in Brooklyn to hold community-based holiday parties for underprivileged youth. Nannette graduated from St. John's University with a degree in psychology. She went on to work at Dreyfus Service Corporation, where she held a position in human resources with an array of responsibilities focused on recruitment. After moving to Connecticut, she concentrated her efforts on raising her family, volunteering, and fundraising for various nonprofit organizations there and in the greater New York area. She currently lives in Cheshire, Connecticut, with her husband, Greg, and has two children.
Job Titles:
- Senior Vice President, Human Capital Management
Nupur is recognized within the human resources field for her expertise in talent management, driving organizational improvement and change management. She leads our organizational human capital management strategy.
With experience in both Canada and the US, in profit and nonprofit sectors, Nupur brings extensive domestic and international experience in talent management, leadership training and development, corporate culture, HR metrics, organizational design and business transformation.
Having spent the early part of her career in Social Work, she brings a tremendous understanding and compassion for the mission and work of Covenant House. Nupur has a Masters in Leadership & Adult Learning and a Bachelors of Science in Psychology.
Job Titles:
- Executive Director
- Founder
- Member of the Board of Directors
Job Titles:
- Chief Financial Officer
- Treasurer
Pamela Kournetas is recognized as a finance leader with a strong for-profit foundation and eight years' experience in large, complex global nonprofit organizations. At Covenant House International (CHI), Pamela determines, drives, and delivers the organization's financial strategies, supporting CHI's overall strategic direction for growth. Her responsibilities include day-to-day management of CHI's finance and business management operations to ensure a sound financial structure and safeguard the assets of the organization.
Pamela comes to Covenant House from Girl Scouts USA, where she served as deputy CFO. Prior to this, she was senior director for budget and financial planning and acting CFO at International Rescue Committee, where she was responsible for a budget of $700 million. In addition, she repositioned the budget unit as a strategic analytic financial planning function and increased financial visibility, allowing for improved investment of the organization's cash flow.
Pamela started her career in the nonprofit world at New York University, where she served as associate director for budget and financial planning. Before pursuing a career in the nonprofit sector, Pamela worked for a number of prestigious financial management firms, including Steinberg Asset Management and Gabelli & Co.
Pamela's strong finance background includes an MBA from the Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania. She earned her undergraduate degree in political science at Duke University.
Job Titles:
- in 2014 As a Member
- Senior Vice President of Brand & Communications
Pam Sandonato joined Covenant House in 2014 as a member of the Peer to Peer (P2P) fundraising team. In January 2018, Pam became Senior Vice President of Marketing & Growth - her team is charged with establishing and expanding new enterprises, including digital, social, special events and P2P. Additionally, Pam is leading Covenant House International's rebranding work, which includes overarching articulation, messaging and visual identity. Pam loves and embraces the simplicity of Covenant House's unwavering mission since 1972: to provide a bed tonight and a better tomorrow.
Pam originally hails from south Jersey and is a graduate of University of Delaware. She has been a part of the NYC nonprofit community for over 15 years. Prior to Covenant House, Pam spent six years at the National Down Syndrome Society where she served as Vice President of Development. Pam lives in Jersey City with her husband and two kids. She loves good coffee, good jokes and good people.
Job Titles:
- National Director, Casa Alianza Mexico
Patricia Secunza Schott has dedicated her career to the defense and promotion of the human rights of vulnerable children. Through her work in residential programs, she has advocated for children who have been abused or neglected and is a prominent advocate for policy changes that will improve the lives of young people in Mexico. Patricia earned a Master's degree in Human Rights Education and is recognized as a Training Specialist for adult education in Latin America and the Caribbean. She is also recognized for developing an intervention model with a focus on human rights education, gender perspective and interculturality; focused on strengthening families and promoting participatory and informed processes of girls, teenagers, and young women.
Philip Andryc joined the board of directors of Covenant House International in May 2011, having previously been a member and chair of the Covenant House New York board of directors. Philip spent more than 20 years at Morgan Stanley, where he served in various capacities, and later retired from Berens Capital Management. Philip received an A.B. degree from Dartmouth College and an MBA from Harvard University. He has three grown children and lives with his spouse, Linda, in Connecticut.
Rachel Brosnahan is an award winning actress and producer who currently stars as Miriam ‘Midge' Maisel in the critically acclaimed Amazon series, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. Other notable film and television credits include House of Cards, Manhattan, The Courier, I'm Your Woman, Patriot's Day, Louder Than Bombs and many more across film, television and the stage. Rachel's production banner Scrap Paper Pictures has a first look with Amazon Studios Television.
Job Titles:
- Chief Executive Officer for All of CHF
- Chief Executive Officer, Covenant House Florida
Reneé Trincanello began as a master's-level intern in the Covenant House Florida (CHF) Addiction Management Program. She has served in a variety of clinical roles, including family counseling therapist, residential floor therapist, clinical services coordinator, and director of special services. Reneé became a licensed clinical social worker in 2007.
Job Titles:
- Executive Director, Covenant House New Orleans
Rheneisha Robertson, MPH, joined Covenant House New Orleans in January, 2021. Rheneisha is a passionate advocate and demonstrated public health professional with over 20 years' experience in Nonprofit Leadership and Community Public Health. Her extensive resume reflects a successful career and dedication to positive youth development and adolescent & women's health.
Rheneisha has spent the last 15 years with the Institute of Women and Ethnic Studies, a national non-profit health organization domiciled in New Orleans. Her various leadership roles at IWES have included Chief Programs Officer and Chief Operations Officer. She considers herself a servant leader and has been actively engaged in the New Orleans community. Rheneisha is also a past member of Off the Field Players' Wives Association, a national association of wives of active and retired professional football players.
Rheneisha earned a master's degree from Tulane University's School of Public Health and a bachelor's from Xavier University of Louisiana. She is a graduate of the Brian Bell Metropolitan Leadership Forum and the Rockwood Leadership Institute's Art of Leadership program. She is a proud native of New Orleans, wife, and mother of two teenagers.
Job Titles:
- Executive Vice President
- Member of the Board of Directors
Job Titles:
- Dean
- Dean of the Maxine Goodman Levin
Roland V. Anglin is Dean of the Maxine Goodman Levin College of Urban Affairs at Cleveland State University. Dean Anglin is recognized for his scholarly and applied work in the area of economic and community development. Dean Anglin is a passionate advocate for public polices and community-based strategies that create social and economic opportunities for marginalized communities and people. Prior to his appointment as Dean, Dr. Anglin was Senior Advisor to the Chancellor of Rutgers University-Newark and Director of the Joseph C. Cornwall Center for Metropolitan Studies, an applied research institute at the university. Dr. Anglin began his career at Rutgers University in 1987. He was recruited to the Ford Foundation in 1991, where he spent eight years. Dr. Anglin served first as the program officer responsible for community development and was promoted to Deputy Director for Community and Resource Development. After leaving the Ford Foundation in 1999, Dr. Anglin went to the Structured Employment Economic Development Corporation (Seedco), a community development financial intermediary. He is the author and co-author of four books and several peer-reviewed articles. Dr. Anglin sits on several public sector, nonprofit, and private sector boards. He received his doctorate from the University of Chicago, an MA from Northwestern University, and a BA from Brooklyn College (City University of New York).
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board of Directors
- Registered Nurse
Job Titles:
- Vice President, Current Production
Job Titles:
- Member of the Leadership Team
- Chief Financial and Administrative Officer
Simone has dedicated her life to public service supporting New Yorkers. Simone has held leadership positions at the NYC Department of Education, the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) and the Children's Aid Society, and served as Budget Director for Letitia James during her tenure on the New York City Council. Simone received a Bachelor of Science in Political Science and Economics from SUNY Oneonta, and her Master of Science in Nonprofit Leadership from Fordham University.
Job Titles:
- Senior Vice President
- SVP, Global Talent Management
Stephanie Asbury is senior vice president of global talent. Her responsibilities include leading the strategies that support Delta's global organizational effectiveness, leadership development, talent acquisition, recognition, and unique culture. Stephanie has more than 15 years of human resources experience in talent management. At Delta, she serves as a member of the Corporate Diversity Council and the Human Trafficking Steering Committee. Prior to joining Delta, Stephanie held various human resources leadership roles at Bank of America. As a member of Bank of America's retail banking leadership team, Stephanie provided strategic direction and leadership on associate satisfaction, organizational effectiveness, and talent management for more than 70,000 employees. Prior to joining Bank of America, Stephanie held various leadership roles at Coca-Cola, ultimately becoming the global director of talent management, supporting more than 80,000 employees. As an active member of the Atlanta community, Stephanie has held board positions at several organizations, including the Atlanta Workforce Development Board. Stephanie holds a Bachelor of Science degree in accounting from Indiana University.
Job Titles:
- Founder and Managing Partner ZMC / Chairman and CEO, Take - Two Interactive Software
Strauss Zelnick founded ZMC in 2001. He has a long history of leading media and communications enterprises and is deeply involved in originating investments, advising executives, and guiding strategic and operational initiatives across all portfolio company investments. Strauss serves as chief executive officer and chairman of the board of directors of Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. In addition, he recently served as interim chairman of The CBS Corp. board of directors. Prior to forming ZMC, Strauss was president and chief executive officer of BMG Entertainment, at that time one of the world's largest music and entertainment companies with more than 200 record labels and operations in 54 countries. Before joining BMG Entertainment, he was president and chief executive officer of Crystal Dynamics, a producer, and distributor of interactive entertainment software. Prior to that, he spent four years as president and chief operating officer of 20th Century Fox, where he managed all aspects of Fox Inc.'s worldwide motion picture production and distribution business. Previously, Strauss spent three years at Vestron Inc., two of them as the company's president and chief operating officer. He also served as vice president of international television sales at Columbia Pictures. Strauss holds a B.A. from Wesleyan University, as well as an MBA from Harvard Business School and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. He is the author of "Success: A Concise Guide to Having the Life You Want" and "Becoming Ageless."
Job Titles:
- Executive Director, Covenant House Illinois
Susan is a respected local leader with more than 30 years of Health and Human Services experience in the Chicago community. Susan joins Covenant House from Children's Place Association where she served as Chief Program Officer. In this role, she was responsible for the operations of the organization's domestic programs, including the Early Learning Center, Family & Community Services, Foster & Adoptive Care and the Residential Center. She spent 16 years of her career at the Beacon Therapeutic Diagnostic and Treatment Center where she served as Chief Executive Officer. Her career has been spent focusing on helping to systematically advance the issues surrounding homelessness and its resulting impact on children and young adult's mental health, physical health, and overall well-being.
Susan is a licensed clinical social worker and holds a master's degree in Social Work from Loyola University. She is a first-generation Mexican American with strong Chicago roots where she lives with her husband and three adult children. Susan is an avid runner. She completed two triathlons and for a fundraiser has rappelled down the Witt Hotel in Chicago twice!
Job Titles:
- Officer
- Senior Vice President, Individual Giving & Corporate Partnerships
- Vice President of Individual Giving and Corporate Partnerships at CHI
Tod Monaghan joined Covenant House in September 2000 as an assistant to Sr. Mary Rose McGeady, then president and CEO of Covenant House International (CHI). Inspired by the work of direct care that he witnessed at Covenant House New York (CHNY), Tod attended Fordham University, earned a master's in social work, and became a licensed master social worker (LMSW). He spent the next six years at CHNY providing direct care to minors, young moms and babies, and young people struggling with substance use. He then turned to fundraising and spent two years writing foundation and government grants to support the full spectrum of Covenant House programs.
In 2011, Tod became vice president of individual giving and corporate partnerships at CHI. He was part of the leadership team that created the major gifts and corporate partnerships programs and was involved in launching Covenant House's Sleep Out movement.
For the past 10 years, Tod has been a major gift officer. As senior vice president of development since 2015, he works with donors to raise the largest gifts in support of CHI's capital campaign and strategic plan. He is energized by the individuals and families who support Covenant House and whom he feels privileged to embrace as family. He is moved by their unique life experiences and their choice of Covenant House for their philanthropy. "The greatest poverty kids facing homelessness suffer is their aloneness. The families I work with realize that. They get it. They want to address that," Tod says.
Tod lives with his wife and two children in New York City. He attended SUNY Binghamton as an undergraduate and Fordham University for his MSW.
Job Titles:
- Senior Associate / Investment Banking
- Senior Associate at a Wall Street Investment Bank
Tracy Jones-Walker is a senior associate at a Wall Street investment bank in New York City. Born in Georgetown, Guyana, she came to the United States with her 8-month-old daughter. Prior to her five-year tenure with her current company, she held similar positions with Credit Suisse, SG Cowen Securities, Deutsche Bank, U.S. Clearing, and Bear Stearns. Tracy is an alumna of Covenant House's Rights of Passage program. She joined the corporate board of directors of Covenant House New York in 2004, where she served for two years before joining the Covenant House International board of directors, where she has served for more than 10 years. Tracy and her husband of more than 25 years have three daughters and are the proud grandparents of two girls and one boy. They have invested in several homes in Brooklyn and currently reside in one of those homes, in East Flatbush.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Leadership Team
- Chief Planning and Performance Officer
Vesna Selmanovic has 15 years of progressive leadership experience with data, compliance, and quality improvement for at-risk youth programs, and she is responsible for ensuring high-quality services and client outcomes for all programs at CHNNY. Prior to her work here, she was the Director of Quality Improvement and Compliance at New Alternatives for Children.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board of Directors
- Vice President, Airport Operations
Vivian Scott Chew is a pioneering risk-taker in every sense of the word. As founder and principal of TimeZone International, she stands as an innovative figure in the global music and entertainment industry. One of Vivian's foundational steps was at the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP), where she was the first African American female membership representative. She then founded the "ASCAP Rhythm and Soul Awards," which became an instant success and has grown to become an ASCAP staple event, now celebrating its 33rd year. Vivian stepped into the world of entrepreneurship by establishing TimeZone International, the first U.S.-based African American-owned company that provides recording artists with international marketing and promotion services in expanded regions. The roster of artists includes Jill Scott, Lil Wayne, JoJo, Toni Braxton, Iyanla Vanzant, Jay-Z, Kem, Brian McKnight, Ledisi, Common, India.Arie, and BeBe Winans. Corporate clients include McDonalds, Red Bull, Sony Music, and Universal Music Group to name a few. Alongside her husband, the music director and producer Ray Chew, she is a founding partner in Chew Entertainment, a premiere event-production firm. Vivian is the newest member of the New Jersey Council on the Arts and the president of the Power2Inspire Foundation, which she created with her husband to identify and nurture music creators and industry leaders to rise to their highest potential.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Board of Directors
- Executive Vice President / Silverstein Properties