Meet the Ybb Team
At YouthBuild Boston, our team is dedicated to empowering the next generation of builders, designers, and community leaders. We are a passionate group of educators, designers, construction professionals, and advocates who share a common goal: to provide young people with the skills, support, and opportunities they need to succeed in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industries. Our staff is committed to fostering an inclusive and collaborative environment where students are encouraged to explore their potential, build their futures, and make a positive impact in their communities. With diverse expertise and a shared vision, the YBB team works together to inspire and uplift youth through hands-on training, mentorship, and career development.
Duncan Coakley
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Duncan’s rather unique background includes two careers - real estate lawyer & general contractor. As a result, he provides strong communication & organizational skills and “hands on” knowledge of construction. A lifelong resident of Boston, Duncan is committed to effecting change throughout the city. At YouthBuild Boston, he empowers young people through vocational education and assists non-profit organization through project partnerships.
Claire Cocroft
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Claire is an efficiency nerd, passionate about helping organizations work better with the limited resources they have, and about maximizing these resources to broaden access to wealth-building opportunities. At YBB, she oversees the Data and Operations functions, working to make YBB’s programs and administrative functions efficient and effective. Prior to joining YBB in 2022, Claire has worked in a broad variety of HR, administrative, and Development roles at Thompson Island Outward Bound, the Home for Little Wanderers, and Whole Foods. She holds an MBA in Nonprofit Management from the Heller School of Social Policy at Brandeis University and a BA in Psychology from Carleton College. Outside of work, Claire is an avid knitter, an aspiring gardener, and a loving cat-mom.
Neil Daniel
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Neil Daniel is a young professional who began his career in healthcare architecture and now manages design programs at YouthBuild Boston, providing opportunities for youth to explore architecture and design. Neil, with his lead designers, empower youth to learn about design within the context of Boston, fostering purposeful engagement that enables students to become voices of change in their communities. His work at YouthBuild has reignited his passion for architecture’s potential to impact neighborhoods, and he continues to advocate for architecture’s role in promoting purpose, equity, and inclusion. In his free time, Neil enjoys photography, 3D modeling, cooking, baking, and exploring Boston and the surrounding areas with his electric bike!
Beth Curtis
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Beth brings 20 years of experience in non-profit fundraising and management to her role at YouthBuild Boston, which she began in 2024. Previously, she served as Director of Operations and Development for Industry Corps at Wentworth Institute of Technology where she secured seed funding of $1.3 million from corporate partners, private foundations, and quasi-public agencies. Prior to that, Beth spent seven years as Associate Director of Corporate and Foundation Relations at Wentworth. She has also served as Senior Director of Leadership Giving for United Way of MA Bay and in senior development roles at United Way of Metropolitan Chicago. In 2023-24, Beth was a Massachusetts Education Policy Fellow at the Rennie Center for Education Research & Policy. She holds a master’s degree in ethnology from University of New Mexico and a bachelor’s degree in social work from Xavier University. In her free time, Beth enjoys nature walks, collecting sea shells, reading historical fiction, and spending time with her family.
Jeremy Donovan
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Jeremy is a Vocational Instructor with a background in architecture and a deep interest in materiality. After experiences in both the design and construction side of the building industry, he has become passionate about changing the way we think about material and waste. He believes in the empowerment and satisfaction that results from creating tangible things, and is motivated to show the next generation of tradespeople and makers the impact they can have on their environments. In his free time he likes listening to music, drawing, and making furniture and art out of wood, metal and glass.
Nicole Glasgow
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Nicole Glasgow is a dedicated Case Manager at YouthBuild Boston, where Nicole works wholeheartedly to empower young people to achieve their educational and career goals. With a B.A in Communications from the University of Massachusetts Boston, Nicole provides individualized support, helping students navigate challenges and access essential resources.Committed to fostering resilience, direction and growth, Nicole believes in the potential of every young person to create a brighter future. Outside of work, Nicole Dj's under the pseudonym DJ Makiato.
Brandon Lunsford
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Brandon hails from Philadelphia, Pa and is no stranger to the plights of our inner city youth. This common ground adds to the rapport he establishes with the community and students effortlessly. His strong sense of community responsibility comes from his matriculation through Lincoln University, the nation’s first HBCU, where he graduated with a Bachelors of Science in Political Science with a Pre-Law Concentration. Brandon actively engages every aspect of the community in Boston from the arts, the music industry, BPS, at-risk youth programs, and re-entry programs. In his free time, Brandon loves trying new foods, studying martial arts, music, and traveling.
Samuel Ingram
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Sam is a young professional with an extensive background in Psychology, holding two Masters degrees which he obtained from his secondary studies in the U.K. In his transition back to the States, Sam fell into HR/Operational work at a 3D printing company and discovered his propensity for high-level organizational work as well as the development and improvement of processes. At YouthBuild he’s been able to apply his critical eye to the uplifting of program operations. His primary goals have been to improve communication, across the organization as well as with students, and to further develop the overall efficacy of the programs offered at YBB. While his role is primarily operational, he has had several opportunities to tap into his experience and understanding of psychology as he often intersects with and supports the students during their first few weeks of orientation. Outside of work, Sam is an avid comic book reader (X-men to be specific), an actor, and a music/pop culture enthusiast.
Jesse Lyons
Genesis Mejia
Lalitta Nord
Verena Niederhoefer
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Jesse is a passionate youth-worker, dedicated to supporting young people build the tools, skills and knowledge to create new realities out of the potential. Jesse began his youthwork journey in 2002, volunteering at a community organization in Roxbury while enrolled at Northeastern University on a community service-based full scholarship. Since then, he has amassed decades of nonprofit, education and leadership experience both locally and abroad. He fell in love with Youthbuild Boston upon joining the organization in 2015 and previous to his current role of Youth Development Manager, has served as both a Project Manager and Vocational Instructor. He believes wholly in the power of hands-on, project-based learning, letting compassion and understanding lead the way, and standing shoulder-to-shoulder with young people, building and growing together as a community. Outside of Youthbuild, he loves music, carpentry, real estate investing, travel, outdoor activities and spending time with his family.
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Genesis Mejia, Born and raised in Boston, Genesis has been deeply connected to the city throughout her life. She attended the Boston Public School system, completing all grades locally. Genesis pursued higher education at Roxbury Community College, UMASS Boston, and Harvard Extension School, where she focused on social science and business administration, with a minor in finance and a concentration in leadership and organizational change. Bringing over 10 years of experience in administration, accounts payable, and research administration, including grants and compliance, to her current role at YouthBuild Boston. She joined Harvard University, driven by a strong commitment to empowering youth and strengthening her community. Outside of work, Genesis enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, exploring different cuisines, and catching up on much-needed rest.
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Lalitta Nord was born and raised in Dorchester, MA. Lalitta has a background in outreach, helping the community, and serving others. I have worked in a school setting for over 10 years. in Lalitta spare time I enjoy learning how to save money, spending time with family and friends, listening to music, and eating good food.
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Verena Niederhoefer holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from UMass Boston and a Master's in Educational and Developmental Psychology from Boston College. She began her career working with street boys in Caracas, Venezuela, and later spent a decade serving Boston youth through nonprofit organizations, providing GED/HiSET preparation, housing services, and workforce training. Verena transitioned to Boston’s Office of Workforce Development, where she managed grants and contracts, shaping funding strategies for youth workforce services. In April 2024, she joined YouthBuild Boston to design and implement strategic workforce and youth development programs. In her spare time, Verena enjoys spending time with her family and friends.
Nathan Polk
Victor Subero
Francisco Saez
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Nathan, a lifelong resident of Roxbury, has dedicated the past 9 years to YouthBuild Boston, where he serves as the Director of Programs & Partnerships. With a deep-rooted passion for workforce development and opportunity equity, Nathan is committed to creating impactful programs that empower and uplift the community he calls home. His work at YouthBuild Boston reflects his unwavering dedication to fostering meaningful change and advancing equitable opportunities for all.
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Francisco Saez studied Architecture, Urbanism, and Territory, focusing on technology and sustainable systems development in Lima, Perú. After completing his studies, he entered the private sector, supporting and leading teams on developing different architectural and engineering projects. As the CEO and founder of his own architectural firm, Francisco has successfully executed a diverse range of projects, particularly in the healthcare, residential, and corporate sectors.
Currently, he is pursuing a Master of Architecture at the Boston Architectural College (BAC), where he has been awarded a scholarship, recognizing his effort and progress throughout his career. In addition to his professional endeavors, Francisco is passionate about integrating sustainable practices into design and actively participates in resilience initiatives that seek to enhance the quality of life for communities. In his free time, he enjoys traveling, playing sports, and singing while playing the piano or guitar.
Coles Ehlers
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Coles is originally from Athens, Georgia and a graduate of the University of Georgia. Prior to joining YBB he interned with The Carter Center and BCG Brighthouse, where he honed his skills in strategic planning, problem-solving, and organizational management. He previously served as an AmeriCorps VISTA at YBB before transitioning into his current role as Grants Coordinator. Outside of work he enjoys exercising, traveling, and exploring the Greater Boston area.
Mary Thomas
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Mary Thomas will have completed her 17th year as the Lead Teacher at YouthBuild Boston in November of 2024. Prior to joining YBB, Mary taught English at Charlestown High School, after having taught in public schools in Maine. She was recruited by the Special Education Department Chair at one of the schools to become a Special Education teacher/Case Manager for students with Specific (Moderate) Learning Disabilities. While still employed as a full-time Special Education teacher, Mary also began teaching evening Adult Education GED English and Communications courses in a neighboring school system, remaining in that role for many years before moving to the Boston area. She is the mother of three children, one of whom is also a teacher. . Mary served as the Choir Director in her home parish in Maine for 20 years and also was a Section Leader for the Second Sopranos in the 100-voice Portland Community Chorus. After moving to the Boston area, she sang in a church choir in Cambridge for many years. She enjoys music, reading (especially science fiction), keeping up with news about new discoveries about our universe, and playing (some) video games; Mary also has created and is playing characters in two different D & D games.
Elias Ghantous
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Darius Smith
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dsmith@ybboston
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Originally from Lynn and adopted and raised on the South Shore, I grew up with a passion for helping others, inspired by my father, who served as a director at YBB for over 20+ years. Although I graduated with a degree in marketing in 2013, I quickly realized that I wanted a more hands-on and creative career path. Throughout my journey, I’ve been driven by my desire to blend creativity with a practical approach, always looking for ways to make a meaningful impact.
Eva Scapicchio
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Eva is a Boston native, UMass Amherst graduate, and lifelong advocate for youth and community. A former youth worker and basketball coach, she began her public service career at City Hall in 2018 and has since led organizing efforts across local and state campaigns. Most recently, she served as Assistant Director of Economic Inclusion at Gilbane Building Company, fostering partnerships with Boston Public Schools and community organizations. Eva also serves on Mayor Michelle Wu’s SPARK Council, where she launched its first mentorship program. She is fluent in Spanish and Italian, and enjoys hosting gatherings with family and friends.
Peter Hunt
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Sam is a young professional with an extensive background in Psychology, holding two Masters degrees which he obtained from his secondary studies in the U.K. In his transition back to the States, Sam fell into HR/Operational work at a 3D printing company and discovered his propensity for high-level organizational work as well as the development and improvement of processes. At YouthBuild he’s been able to apply his critical eye to the uplifting of program operations. His primary goals have been to improve communication, across the organization as well as with students, and to further develop the overall efficacy of the programs offered at YBB. While his role is primarily operational, he has had several opportunities to tap into his experience and understanding of psychology as he often intersects with and supports the students during their first few weeks of orientation. Outside of work, Sam is an avid comic book reader (X-men to be specific), an actor, and a music/pop culture enthusiast.
Ariel Auster-Mehr
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Ariel, originally from New York, has called Boston home for the past eight years. She holds a BA in Sociology and Linguistics from the University at Buffalo and brings over a decade of experience in the public and nonprofit sectors, with a focus on education, animal rescue, housing, and youth development. A two-time AmeriCorps alum, she served with City Year in New York and Jericho Road Housing Initiative in New Orleans. At YouthBuild Boston, Ariel manages special events—including BuildFest—, develops donor reports to support strategic fundraising, and oversees the organization’s website and social media. Outside of work, she enjoys attending concerts, hosting game nights, and sharing her love for New Orleans culture.
Serenity Gromada
sumaita habib
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Sumaita is a designer and Master of Architecture candidate with a strong focus on socially responsive design and community-centered projects. At YouthBuild Boston, she leads hands-on workshops and provides creative mentorship, guiding students in design thinking and spatial storytelling. She is passionate about creating inclusive learning environments that empower the next generation of makers and thinkers.