In the thriving nonprofit sector of the Boston-Cambridge-Newton, MA-NH Metro Area, certain individuals stand out for their exceptional leadership and impactful contributions. These influencers are at the forefront of addressing pressing social issues, fostering community development, and driving systemic change. At NonProfits.Club, we are committed to recognizing and celebrating these remarkable leaders. To compile this list of the top 50 nonprofit influencers in the region, our team used the following rigorous criteria:
- Impact and Innovation: Evaluating the tangible outcomes and innovative approaches these leaders have brought to their fields.
- Leadership and Advocacy: Assessing their ability to inspire, mobilize others, and advocate for systemic change.
- Sustainability and Scalability: Considering the sustainability of their initiatives and their potential for scaling impact.
- Recognition and Awards: Taking into account accolades and acknowledgments received from peers and reputable organizations.
This curated list showcases individuals who have dedicated their lives to making a difference, highlighting their remarkable achievements and the profound impact they have on the Boston-Cambridge-Newton community.
Deeksha Joshi – President, No Worker Left Behind Inc
Deeksha Joshi is a data-driven transformation leader with over 17 years of experience in strategy, innovation, product commercialization, operations, and management consulting. She is the CEO of No Worker Left Behind, where she leads with empathy, fostering entrepreneurial spirit and high performance in large organizations. Her diverse teams drive complex cultural changes across multi-line businesses. Deeksha’s technology background aids in digital transformations and commercialization initiatives. She is recognized as a thought partner, author, international speaker, DEI leader, and startup advisor. Her specialties include corporate strategy, business planning, M&A, financial analysis, partnerships, product management, and operations. Deeksha is passionate about building bigger, bolder, and better organizations through transformation.
Wyc Grousbeck – Entrepreneur and philanthropist, involved in various local causes.
Lead owner and governor of the Boston Celtics NBA team since 2002. Co-founder of Causeway Media Partners, a private equity firm focused on sports and technology investments. Involved in various philanthropic efforts, including chairing Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary and supporting organizations like the Boston Celtics Shamrock Foundation and Camp Jabberwocky
Stephen Karp – Philanthropist, founder of the Karp Family Foundation.
Founder and CEO of New England Development, a major real estate development company. Established the Karp Family Foundation to support health, education, youth, and cultural causes in the Boston area. Serves as Chairman of the Board of Trustees at Boston Children’s Hospital and has made significant contributions to healthcare institutions
John Henry – Businessman and philanthropist, involved in local giving through the John and Linda Henry Family Foundation.
Principal owner of the Boston Red Sox and Liverpool F.C., and owner of The Boston Globe. Through the John and Linda Henry Family Foundation, he supports various local causes in Boston. The foundation has given grants to organizations focused on health, education, youth development, and community services
Carl Ferenbach – Philanthropist, leader of the High Meadows Foundation.
Co-founder of Berkshire Partners and founder of the High Meadows Foundation. Dedicated to environmental causes, he established the High Meadows Fund to support sustainable initiatives in Vermont. Serves as chair of the Environmental Defense Fund and has supported environmental programs at Princeton University
Amos & Barbara Hostetter – Philanthropists associated with the Barr Foundation.
Amos Hostetter is the co-founder and trustee of the Barr Foundation, one of the largest private foundations in Massachusetts. He also co-founded Continental Cablevision, which became a major player in the cable television industry. Amos has been recognized for his contributions to the cable industry and his philanthropic efforts, particularly in climate change, education, and the arts. Barbara Hostetter co-founded the Barr Foundation with Amos and has been instrumental in its philanthropic initiatives, focusing on arts, education, and climate change
Jack Connors – All-Purpose Power Broker, involved with the Lynch Foundation and several educational institutions.
Jack Connors is a prominent philanthropist and power broker in Boston. He co-founded Hill, Holliday, Connors, Cosmopulos Inc., one of the top advertising agencies in the U.S. He is deeply involved with the Lynch Foundation, which supports education, healthcare, and religious organizations. Jack has played a significant role in revitalizing Catholic schools in Boston and has served on numerous nonprofit boards, including Partners HealthCare and the Boston College Board of Trustees
Ned Johnson and Abigail Johnson – Influential in various philanthropic efforts.
Ned Johnson was the chairman of Fidelity Investments, a company founded by his father. He was known for his philanthropic efforts, particularly in education and healthcare. Abigail Johnson, his daughter, is the current CEO of Fidelity Investments. She has been recognized as one of the most powerful women in the world and has a significant influence on the financial industry. Abigail is also involved in various philanthropic activities, including supporting education and healthcare initiatives
Peter & Carolyn Lynch – Major donors to educational causes, including Boston College.
Peter Lynch is a renowned investor and philanthropist, best known for managing the Fidelity Magellan Fund. He and his late wife, Carolyn Lynch, have made significant contributions to education, particularly through the Lynch Foundation. They have supported numerous educational initiatives, including the Lynch School of Education at Boston College, City Year, and Teach for America. Their philanthropy extends to healthcare, the arts, and social services
Paul Grogan – President and CEO of the Boston Foundation, a major grant-making organization.
Paul Grogan is the President and CEO of the Boston Foundation, one of the nation’s oldest and largest community foundations. Under his leadership, the Foundation’s assets and grant-making capabilities have significantly increased. Paul has expanded the Foundation’s mission to include civic leadership, influencing urban policy and legislative solutions. He has also launched several high-impact initiatives, such as Success Boston and StreetSafe Boston, aimed at improving education and reducing youth violence
John Barros – Notable for his involvement in the Barr Fellowship program.
John Barros is known for his involvement in the Barr Fellowship program, which recognizes and supports exemplary leaders in various fields. He has served as the Chief of Economic Development for the City of Boston and has been a key figure in promoting economic growth and community development. John has also been involved in numerous nonprofit organizations, focusing on education, youth development, and social justice
Doug Rubin – Political strategist and advisor with influence in nonprofit sectors.
Doug Rubin is a political strategist and advisor with a significant influence in Massachusetts politics. He has worked on numerous high-profile campaigns, including those of Governor Deval Patrick and Senator Elizabeth Warren. Doug is also involved in nonprofit advocacy, providing strategic advice and support to various organizations focused on social justice and public policy
Eric Fehrnstrom – Communications strategist with involvement in nonprofit advocacy.
Eric Fehrnstrom is a communications strategist known for his work as a senior advisor on Mitt Romney’s presidential campaigns. He has extensive experience in media relations and political communication. Eric has also been involved in nonprofit advocacy, offering his expertise to organizations working on public policy and social issues.
Michael Cloud – Activist with significant influence in Massachusetts.
Michael Cloud is an activist with significant influence in Massachusetts. He has been involved in various social and political causes, advocating for civil liberties, environmental protection, and social justice. Michael’s work has had a substantial impact on local and state policies, particularly in promoting progressive change and community engagement.
Whitney Taylor – Activist involved in various social causes.
Whitney Taylor is an activist involved in various social causes, including civil rights, social justice, and public policy. She has conducted extensive research on social rights and legal mobilization, with a focus on how citizens’ demands for legal protections influence policy. Whitney’s work has been recognized with awards and has contributed to the understanding of social movements and legal advocacy.
Maggie Schmidt and Ken Danila – Philanthropists involved with the Boston Foundation.
Maggie Schmidt and Ken Danila are philanthropists deeply involved with the Boston Foundation. They have been instrumental in accelerating grantmaking to meet the needs of communities during the COVID-19 crisis and addressing racial justice issues. Their partnership with the Boston Foundation has allowed them to significantly increase their giving to both local and national organizations, demonstrating their commitment to impactful philanthropy.
Makeeba McCreary – President of the New Commonwealth Racial Equity and Social Justice Fund.
Dr. Makeeba McCreary is the President and CEO of the New Commonwealth Racial Equity and Social Justice Fund, a position she has held since September 2021. Prior to this role, she was the Patti and Jonathan Kraft Chief of Learning and Community Engagement at the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. Dr. McCreary has a distinguished career focused on advancing racial equity and social justice, leveraging her leadership to drive systemic change and support underserved communities.
Dot Joyce – Former press secretary and nonprofit advocate.
Dot Joyce is a former press secretary and a dedicated nonprofit advocate. She has extensive experience in public relations and communications, having served as the press secretary for Boston Mayor Thomas Menino. Dot has been actively involved in nonprofit advocacy, using her expertise to support various causes and organizations, particularly those focused on community development and public policy.
David Kuehn – Chair of the Massachusetts Nonprofit Network Board of Directors.
David Kuehn is the Chair of the Massachusetts Nonprofit Network Board of Directors and the Executive Director of the Cotuit Center for the Arts. Under his leadership, the Cotuit Center has expanded its programs and community outreach, becoming a vital cultural hub. As Chair of the Massachusetts Nonprofit Network, David plays a crucial role in supporting and advancing the interests of the nonprofit sector across the state.
Celina Miranda – Executive Director of Hyde Square Task Force.
Dr. Celina Miranda is the Executive Director of Hyde Square Task Force, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering youth and fostering community development in Boston’s Latin Quarter. With a Ph.D. focused on integrating positive youth development in community-based organizations, Dr. Miranda has significantly enhanced the organization’s impact, providing educational and leadership opportunities for young people and promoting cultural enrichment.
Jeffrey Chin – Treasurer of the Massachusetts Nonprofit Network and leader at Blue Star Families.
Jeffrey Chin serves as the Treasurer of the Massachusetts Nonprofit Network and is a leader at Blue Star Families of New England. With over 30 years of experience in nonprofit administration, he has demonstrated expertise in organizational leadership. As Executive Director at Blue Star Families, Jeffrey has been instrumental in supporting military families and fostering community partnerships
Shirronda Almeida – At-Large Member of the Massachusetts Nonprofit Network, Mel King Institute.
Shirronda Almeida is an At-Large Member of the Massachusetts Nonprofit Network and the Director of the Mel King Institute for Community Building. She has extensive experience in nonprofit program development and community engagement. Shirronda’s work focuses on strengthening the community development sector through training, leadership development, and fostering collaborations.
Dennis Carman – United Way of Greater Plymouth County.
Dennis Carman has been serving as the President & CEO of the United Way of Greater Plymouth County since March 2006. With 30 years of experience in nonprofit organizations, particularly in substance abuse treatment and homeless programs, Dennis has been instrumental in leading community impact initiatives and fundraising efforts to address critical needs in the Greater Plymouth County area.
Yi-Chin Chen – Friends of the Children-Boston.
Yi-Chin Chen is the Executive Director of Friends of the Children-Boston, a youth mentoring organization. She is a graduate of the Institute for Nonprofit Practice and serves as a Senior Fellow and mentor to emerging nonprofit leaders. Yi-Chin is recognized as a community builder and experienced leader, having been named a 2022 NFL Inspiring Change Changemaker and a 2023 TEDxRoxbury Speaker.
Jim Dyment – The Brush Art Gallery & Studio.
Jim Dyment is the Executive Director of The Brush Art Gallery & Studios in Lowell, Massachusetts. With a background in graphic design and mathematics, Jim has been instrumental in managing and promoting this nonprofit art gallery. Under his leadership, The Brush Art Gallery has become an important cultural institution in Lowell, supporting local artists and providing community art programs.
Leigh Handschuh – The Boston Foundation.
Leigh Handschuh is a Senior Program Officer at The Boston Foundation, where she focuses on Programs, Learning, and Engagement. She plays a crucial role in amplifying community leadership and supporting nonprofit sector infrastructure. Leigh’s work involves managing grant programs and fostering partnerships to advance racial justice and equity in the Greater Boston area.
Colleen Holmes – Viability.
Colleen Holmes is the President and CEO of Viability, Inc., a nonprofit organization that provides services and creates opportunities for individuals with disabilities. With over 30 years of experience in human services, Colleen has led Viability through significant growth and innovation, including expanding employment readiness programs and community-based services. She has been recognized for her leadership and commitment to empowering marginalized communities.
Alex McCray – Philanthropy Massachusetts.
Alex McCray is the Vice President of Member Engagement & Strategic Initiatives at Philanthropy Massachusetts. With a strong background in strategic leadership within the social sector, Alex has been instrumental in enhancing member engagement and developing strategic initiatives that support the philanthropic community in Massachusetts. His work focuses on fostering collaboration and innovation among grantmakers and nonprofit organizations.
Brian McNulty – Highland Street Foundation.
Brian McNulty is the Associate Director of Grants & Programs at the Highland Street Foundation. He has played a significant role in managing the foundation’s grantmaking activities, which focus on areas such as education, youth development, and community building. Brian’s work has contributed to the foundation’s mission of supporting innovative solutions to community challenges and building stronger, more resilient communities.
Tammy Mello – The Key Program.
Tammy Mello is the President and CEO of The Key Program, Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing services to at-risk youth and their families. Under her leadership, The Key Program has implemented trauma-informed care practices and expanded its services to better meet the needs of vulnerable populations. Tammy’s commitment to improving outcomes for at-risk youth has been a driving force behind the organization’s success.
Leah Parker-Moldover – MetroWest Nonprofit Network.
Leah Parker-Moldover is the Executive Director of the MetroWest Nonprofit Network, where she supports and strengthens nonprofit organizations in the MetroWest region. Leah’s work focuses on providing resources, training, and networking opportunities to enhance the capacity and effectiveness of local nonprofits. Her leadership has been instrumental in fostering collaboration and innovation within the nonprofit sector.
Miriam Harris – Environmental League of Massachusetts.
Miriam Harris is a prominent advocate for environmental issues and serves as a leader at the Environmental League of Massachusetts. Her work involves promoting policies and initiatives that protect the environment and advance sustainability. Miriam’s efforts have been crucial in raising awareness and driving action on key environmental challenges facing Massachusetts.
Jane Ralph – Construct Inc.
Jane Ralph is the Executive Director of Construct Inc., a nonprofit organization that provides affordable housing and support services to individuals and families in need. Under her leadership, Construct Inc. has expanded its housing programs and strengthened its community partnerships. Jane’s dedication to addressing homelessness and housing insecurity has made a significant impact in the Berkshire region.
Elizabeth S. Reinhardt – Law Offices of Elizabeth S. Reinhardt.
Elizabeth S. Reinhardt is a legal expert specializing in nonprofit governance and compliance. As the founder of the Law Offices of Elizabeth S. Reinhardt, she provides legal counsel to nonprofit organizations, helping them navigate complex regulatory environments and enhance their operational effectiveness. Elizabeth’s expertise has been invaluable to many nonprofits seeking to achieve their missions while maintaining legal and ethical standards.
Emily Ruddock – MassCreative.
Emily Ruddock is the Executive Director of MassCreative, an advocacy organization dedicated to advancing the creative sector in Massachusetts. Emily’s leadership has been pivotal in promoting policies that support arts and culture, ensuring that the creative community has the resources and recognition it needs to thrive. Her advocacy work has helped to elevate the importance of the arts in economic development and community well-being.
Elka Sachs – Krokidas & Bluestein LLP.
Elka Sachs is a partner at Krokidas & Bluestein LLP, where she specializes in providing legal services to nonprofit organizations. Her work includes advising on governance, compliance, and strategic planning. Elka’s legal expertise and commitment to the nonprofit sector have helped numerous organizations navigate challenges and achieve their goals, contributing to the overall health and sustainability of the nonprofit community.
Chris Smith – Boston After School and Beyond.
Chris Smith is the President and Executive Director of Boston After School & Beyond. He has led the organization in expanding high-quality learning opportunities for Boston’s youth, fostering partnerships between schools, community organizations, and the city. Under his leadership, the organization has significantly increased its reach and impact in supporting after-school and summer learning programs.
Marvin Vilma – Let’s Get Ready.
Marvin Vilma serves as the Chief Program Officer at Let’s Get Ready, a nonprofit organization that provides free SAT preparation, admissions counseling, and post-enrollment mentoring to students from low-income backgrounds and first-generation college students. He has been instrumental in expanding the organization’s programs and improving outcomes for underserved students.
Karen Wiener – Citizens’ Housing and Planning Association.
Karen Wiener is associated with the Citizens’ Housing and Planning Association (CHAPA). While specific details about her role are not provided in the search results, CHAPA is known for its work in promoting affordable housing and community development in Massachusetts.
Brianna Aloisio Savage – Associate Director of Advocacy and Community Engagement, YW Boston.
Brianna Aloisio Savage is the Associate Director of Advocacy and Community Engagement at YW Boston. In this role, she leads YW Boston’s advocacy efforts, focusing on racial and gender equity. Brianna has been instrumental in developing and implementing advocacy strategies, engaging community members, and advancing policy initiatives that align with YW Boston’s mission.
Emma Anderson – Program Coordinator, Cambridge Health Alliance.
Emma Anderson is the Flexible Services Program Coordinator at Cambridge Health Alliance. She is a passionate public health professional dedicated to advancing health equity and empowering people to achieve optimal health and nutrition. Emma manages program operations and evaluates CHA’s MassHealth (Medicaid) Flexible Services nutrition support programs. Her background includes roles in nutrition policy research at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health and clinical research coordination at Massachusetts General Hospital, where she supported NIH-funded trials focused on healthy eating and social needs.
Jeanne Wallace-Buckley – Assistant Vice President for Philanthropy Administration, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.
Jeanne Wallace-Buckley is the Assistant Vice President for Philanthropy Administration at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. With extensive experience in human resources and operations management, Jeanne has demonstrated accomplishments in managing administrative functions for philanthropic organizations. Her previous roles include Director of Trust Administrative Services and Manager of Administration at Boston Children’s Hospital Trust, where she oversaw HR strategic planning, facilities, and policy implementation.
Toiell Washington – Program Manager, BUILD.
Toiell Washington is the Program Manager for BUILD, a national organization that uses entrepreneurship education to promote post-secondary success. Known for leading the largest Black Lives Matter protest in Boston in 2020, Toiell is an activist dedicated to the social, political, and economic mobility of marginalized groups. She is also the founder of The Masters Tools game company, which develops educational games on systemic oppression. Her work has been recognized by major publications and institutions across Greater Boston.
Rachel Jellinek – President, Reflection Films.
Rachel Jellinek is the President of Reflection Films, a WBENC-certified woman-owned video production company that creates films and animations for mission-driven organizations. Rachel has a background in public health and education, having served as a health educator and director of a literacy program. She holds a BA from the University of Michigan and an MA from Harvard University. Her work focuses on producing impactful media content that supports nonprofit missions.
Sue Abbott – Partner at Goodwin, chair of the firm’s Exempt Organization group.
Sue Abbott is a Partner at Goodwin and chairs the firm’s Exempt Organizations group. She specializes in advising nonprofit organizations on tax-exempt status, governance, and compliance matters. Sue’s expertise includes structuring giving programs, handling mergers and dissolutions, and advising on transactions and joint ventures between for-profit and nonprofit entities. Her leadership has been instrumental in guiding organizations through complex legal and regulatory landscapes.
Eleanor Evans – Legal expert in nonprofit governance and compliance.
Eleanor Evans is a Counsel at Hemenway & Barnes LLP with over 25 years of experience representing nonprofit and for-profit organizations in legal, governance, and compliance matters. She provides practical advice to public charities, private foundations, and other tax-exempt organizations. Eleanor previously served as General Counsel for Action for Boston Community Development, Inc. (ABCD) and as Executive Director and General Counsel of Community Action Program Legal Services, Inc. (CAPLAW). Her work includes forming nonprofit entities, handling corporate transactions, and advising on governance and compliance issues.
Alyssa Fitzgerald – Counsel at Goodwin, advising tax-exempt organizations.
Alyssa Fitzgerald is a Counsel at Goodwin Procter LLP, specializing in trusts and estate planning, and advising tax-exempt organizations. With over 16 years of experience, she provides strategic guidance on a variety of issues including formation, mergers, joint ventures, and compliance with IRS regulations. Alyssa has been recognized by The Best Lawyers in America for her work in Nonprofit/Charities Law and Trusts and Estates. She played a key role in obtaining 501(c)(3) status for the One Fund Boston, benefiting those affected by the Boston Marathon Bombings.
John Graham – Tax-exempt organizations expert at Sullivan & Worcester LLP.
John Graham is a Partner at Sullivan & Worcester LLP, specializing in tax-exempt organizations, estate planning, and charitable giving. He has extensive experience advising public charities and private foundations on tax planning, compliance, and governance. John has been recognized by Best Lawyers in America for his expertise in nonprofit law and has contributed significantly to the legal framework supporting charitable organizations.
Chris Jedrey – Nonprofit and for-profit provider and health plan transactions expert at McDermott Will & Emery.
Chris Jedrey is a Partner at McDermott Will & Emery LLP, where he represents nonprofit and for-profit healthcare providers in mergers, acquisitions, affiliations, and joint ventures. He has advised on major transactions, including the $3.5 billion series of transactions for Steward Health Care System and the affiliation of Massachusetts Eye & Ear Infirmary with Partners HealthCare. Chris is a national co-chairman of the firm’s academic medical centers practice and has been recognized by Legal 500 USA and Best Lawyers in America for his contributions to healthcare law.
Anita Pelletier – Counsel at Nixon Peabody’s nonprofit practice group.
Anita Pelletier is Counsel at Nixon Peabody LLP, specializing in advising nonprofit organizations on legal requirements and best practices in governance and operations. She has helped numerous nonprofits navigate compliance issues, conduct internal reviews, and manage mergers and asset transfers. Anita has been recognized as a Nixon Peabody Pro Bono Champion and has received the Rochester Business Journal’s Women of Excellence honor for her contributions to the nonprofit sector.
The dedication and influence of these nonprofit leaders in the Boston-Cambridge-Newton metro area are truly inspiring. Their innovative approaches, unwavering commitment, and impactful initiatives have driven significant progress in various sectors. As we celebrate their achievements, we also recognize the importance of continued collaboration and support within the nonprofit community.
At NonProfits.Club, we believe in the power of connection and collective action. Join our vibrant community of nonprofit professionals, advocates, and supporters to share knowledge, resources, and inspiration. Together, we can amplify our impact and drive meaningful change.
If you know of any other influencers who should be added to this list, please let us know! Visit NonProfits.Club today to become a member and be part of a movement that is shaping the future of the nonprofit sector. Let’s work together to build a brighter, more equitable world.
