2023 Launch Program Book

13TH ANNUAL LAUNCH & SERVICE DAY In partnership with

2023

© Mike Casey Photography

grateful to WBZ-TV, our media partner, for amplifying the voices of a

We are

NEW Generation of changemakers

Welcome!

With greatest joy, we welcome the Class of 2023!

We begin in gratitude for those who enable our mission with belief, generosity, and partnership— educators, families, civic and nonprofit leaders, investors, Alumni, champions, and volunteers. On this Launch Day, we offer special gratitude for the leadership of John Hancock and WBZ-TV. Everyone gathered in this Great Hall shares our belief in you—eighth grade unsung heroes and quiet leaders selected as Ambassadors to represent the Commonwealth’s 351 cities and towns. To serve and lead, dream and build. We celebrate your unity as 35ONE—our 13th Class, diverse in all ways but for your kind hearts and bold aspirations for positive change.

Our mission and your movement draws inspiration from two American heroes—Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King. Yesterday, history was made, with the unveiling of The Embrace, a powerful representation of the love shared by the Kings—and the transformational change realized by that love-in-action. Hank Willis Thomas and MASS Design Group, the artists who designed the memorial, reflected, “In evoking (the Kings’) love, their commitment to each other, and their ideals,The Embrace is overwhelmingly simple and accessible: it is about what we share, not what sets us apart… the memorial will remind visitors of the power of collective action. The 1965 Freedom Rally Memorial Plaza is accessed by peace walks that pay tribute to Boston activists for Civil Rights…inviting us to continue marching together against social injustice.”

The Embrace honors the Kings’ magnificent legacy as movement makers—a reflection of their relentless pursuit of equality and courageous insistence on opportunity for all. Their vision for a Beloved Community—diverse, inclusive, united and just—endures as inspiration for our service and motivation for our mission.

On this first day of your Ambassador year, I invite you to embrace…hope, unity, and love. To activate compassion and commitment to make your difference in the world. To inspire others by your example as a loyal friend, caring classmate, and kind neighbor. To use your voice on behalf of issues and causes that inspire your passion. And, find joy and friendship in this Beloved Community that powers your leadership forward.

We believe that change is possible, because we believe in you. So, let’s begin!

With admiration,

Carolyn Carolyn Casey

Founder & Executive Director Project 351

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Class of 2023 Ambassadors Embrace hope by...

PATRICK, SALISBURY “Even at our AZUL, STOW “Never giving up and always

lowest points, people continue to

thinking of ways to improve. I try to focus

help one another. Some run away

on the positive: if you believe that there is

from danger, others run towards it,

something you can do to be of help, you will

trying to help. I strive to always be

feel more hopeful.”

the one helping those around me, and instilling hope in those who may have lost it.”

MATEO, LONGMEADOW “Never giving

up, by always believing there is still a chance, a possibility. By spreading positive vibes to anyone who needs it. I will show others what people do to make the world better and encourage them to see the possibility of positive change.”

2 | PROJECT 351

ELI, BUCKLAND “Never letting go of

my vision of the future and a better world, always fighting to make it into a reality.”

ANDREW, WORCESTER “Telling JAYDA, LYNN “Reminding others to

look at what they have done to get to where they are, and to believe in themselves.”

others: Don’t give up on yourself.

You’ll never go anywhere if you don’t believe. Be filled with DETERMINATION!”

NYA’LIA, STOUGHTON “Having

empathy for people and their struggles. I will create solutions that show we can overcome any challenge.”

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4 | PROJECT 351

13th Annual Launch Day In honor of Dr. Martin Luther Jr. & Coretta Scott King In celebration of the spirit of the Ambassador Class of 2023 Saturday, January 14, 2023 8:30 AM COMMUNITY BUILDING in Service Hero Teams with Charlie Rose, Chair Emeritus, Project 351 Advisory Board & Senior Vice President, City Year 9:30 AM MORNING PROGRAM & CELEBRATION Program will include:

Remarks by Jim Gallagher, General Counsel, John Hancock, a unit of Manulife Imari Paris Jeffries, Executive Director, Embrace Boston Service Hero Roll Call with Alumni Mentoring Corps Ambassador Navy Tee Ceremony Call-to-Serve

10:45 AM AMBASSADORS DEPART FOR SERVICE SITES & LUNCH 11:45 AM – 3:30 PM UNITE. ACT. LEAD! Through an afternoon of team-based service, Ambassadors will positively impact the lives of 10,000 neighbors by addressing the issues of hunger, homelessness, poverty, and the care of children and veterans.

3:45 PM – 5:00 PM Community Meeting & Service Celebration Ambassador-led celebrations of service impact and reflections on lessons learned, Kick-off to Spring Service: Project 351’s annual campaign in support of Cradles to Crayons, and a year of service, leadership, and friendship

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Unite, Act, Lead: An Afternoon of Service We serve with joy—and with humility and respect for the communities with whom we are privileged to partner. An afternoon of service makes real Dr. King’s vision of the Beloved Community through unity, compassion, and hope.

At four Impact Sites, Ambassadors will invest their skills to make a positive difference in the lives of our neighbors across Boston and our state. As they serve, they’ll gain knowledge of important issues, build empathy, and forge friendships. And, learn from the example of the Alumni, educators, nonprofit leaders, and private sector champions with whom they serve.

We’re grateful to be led by a community of partners including About Fresh, Annie’s Kindness Blankets, Cradles to Crayons, Hope & Comfort, La Colaborativa, Pine Street Inn, Veterans of Foreign War Posts, and the Wonderfund. It’s an honor to serve with leaders working on the frontline of building hope, expanding equity of opportunity, and meeting the critical needs of our neighbors. The lessons learned and skills developed will strengthen Ambassador leadership throughout their service year.

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2023 13TH ANNUAL LAUNCH DAY | 7

Celebrating Embrace Boston We’re honored to welcome Imari Paris Jeffries, Executive Director of Embrace Boston, and celebrate his visionary leadership. Founded in 2017, Embrace Boston works at the intersection of arts and culture, community, and research to dismantle structural racism.

Their vision is a radically inclusive and equitable Boston where everyone belongs and the Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) community prospers—grounded in joy, love, and well-being. Embrace Boston is deeply collaborative and BIPOC-led, working toward an ecosystem which fosters equity, opportunity, and well-being for a transformed Boston by 2030, the City’s 400th birthday.

Designed by Hank Willis Thomas and MASS Design Group, “The Embrace” is a representation of the Kings’ loving embrace upon hearing that Dr. King would be honored as 1964 Nobel Peace Laureate. Located on the Boston Common, The Embrace is the centerpiece of the 1965 Freedom Plaza, which highlights 65 civil rights leaders from Greater Boston—a place of beauty and history that inspires our awe and invites our reflection, commitment, and action.

“T he Embrace w i l l stand ta l l as ou r col lective sy mbol of love, equity, i nclusion, belongi ng and justice. It w i l l ser ve as a permanent monument representi ng the K i ngs’ time and powerf u l presence here i n Boston, a time that helped shape thei r approach to an equitable society.”

Imari Paris Jeffries Executive Director

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“Ma r ti n Luther K i ng, Jr. and Coretta Scott K i ng a re monumenta l examples of the capacity of love to shape society. I can on ly hope T he Embrace can be a ca l l to action to each of us to never forget what they’ve taught us.”

Hank Willis Thomas artist

“Is there a more rad ica l act of justice than love? T he choice to love you r neighbor, to love someone that is not you rsel f, to go i nto a community and act is the foundationa l seed of socia l justice. To us, there was no better way to honor the K i ngs’ legacy and advance col lective action.”

Michael Murphy Founding Principal & Executive Director, MASS Design Group

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• Kindness: The quality of being friendly, considerate, and warm toward all others • Compassion: The instinct to care deeply about others through greater understanding of their lived experiences and unique traditions and heritage • Humility: The characteristic of being modest, especially when using one’s power for good • Gratitude: The act of being thankful; demonstrating appreciation and kindness with joy

• Begin each day and each service project in gratitude.

• Enter into each community with humility and respect.

• Through word, deed, and action; respect and value the dignity of all.

• Honor diversity as our strength—one team, one community, one family: 35ONE! • Service is joy!

• Create transformational impact to eradicate the causes & consequences of poverty to advance equity and build the Beloved Community.

• Make “good trouble!”—and, honor the heroic legacy of Congressman John Lewis, whose example inspired the founding of Project 351.

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Served

Mobilized

1,224,541

312,580

neighbors

students and friends in service

Developed

Fostered

the skills, confidence,

a culture of kindness

Committed to a lifetime of

and courage to lead and

and compassion in

civic responsibility

succeed as agents of

hundreds of schools and

and service

positive change

communities

2023 13TH ANNUAL LAUNCH DAY | 11

The wisdom of our Service HeroEs

“There comes a time when time itself is ready for a change.” [ CORETTA SCOTT KING ]

MARTIN RICHARD

“FOR THERE IS ALWAYS LIGHT, IF ONLY WE’RE BRAVE ENOUGH TO SEE IT. IF ONLY WE’RE BRAVE ENOUGH TO BE IT.” [ AMANDA GORMAN ]

“Let us make our future now, and let us make our dreams tomorrow’s reality.”

[MALALA YOUSAFZAI]

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“I’M ALWAYS LOOKING TO THE FUTURE AND WHAT WILL NEXT BE ON THE HORIZON.” [ CHEF JOSÉ ANDRÉS ]

“WHEN GIVEN THE OPPORTUNITY, WE CAN CONNECT IN WAYS WE DIDN’T THINK WERE

“I THINK EVERYBODY HAS THE RIGHT TO BE WHO THEY ARE.” [ DOLLY PARTON]

POSSIBLE. WE CAN REPLACE RANDOM ACTS OF KINDNESS WITH CONSISTENT ACTS OF LOVE.” [ MEGAN BURKE ]

“Get in trouble— good trouble.” [ CONGRESSMAN JOHN LEWIS ]

“I think that hope, that ability to envision, to imagine a better way, and then to apply yourself to it…is the way to build a better life, a better community, and a better country.” [ GOVERNOR DEVAL PATRICK ]

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Service Hero Teams Unity is a core value of Project 351. Our Ambassadors convene from every corner of the state and demonstrate the remarkable change that can happen when young people unite as one community.

Service Hero Teams serve as the foundation of our efforts to build community, share values, and experience Project 351 service and programming. Each team honors an inspirational force for good— global leaders, everyday heroes, and young people who found their own unique way to make a difference. Led by an Alumni team leader, our 40 teams are geographically diverse to foster friendships, expand perspective, and discover common ground.

We are honored by the privilege of tributing these remarkable leaders as 2023 Service Heroes. And, are proud to introduce the eighth grade unsung heroes who will lead and serve as the Ambassador Class of 2023.

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Chef José Andrés

Maeve Hagberg, Alumni Mentoring Corps, Avon

NOURISHING THE GLOBAL COMMUNITY

Kate Austrino, Avon

José Andrés, globally renowned chef and humanitarian, believes that food can heal communities. After the 2010 earthquakes in Haiti, Andrés founded World Central Kitchen (WCK), a network of volunteers who use their skills to empower communities and strengthen economies.

The much beloved Chef has inspired hundreds of thousands of chefs and volunteers to join his global response to natural and humanitarian disasters.

Their mandate is clear – “first to the frontlines with comfort and hope.” Over the last 13 years, WCK has provided 250 million meals worldwide – including more than 185 million meals supporting families in war-torn Ukraine. Andrés is guided by a simple truth, ”Food is not a luxury reserved for the lucky few. It’s a universal human right to live free from hunger.”

Anna Craft, Kingston

Founder, World Central Kitchen

Francesca Forcellati, Alumni Mentoring Corps, Revere Alexa Cortis, Westhampton Asher Laprade, New Braintree William Maguy, Phillipston Emma Maher, West Bridgewater Autumn Nagle, Oakham Sarah Naz, Revere Tracey Ngabaiya, Agawam Paige Testa, Amesbury Samuel Woodsmall, Swansea

Annie’s Girls

Co-Founders, Annie’s Kindness Blankets A HUG OF KINDNESS

When Annie Varney hugged you, “she wouldn’t let go,” reflects Barbara Buckley, Annie’s aunt and a co-founder of Annie’s Kindness Blankets. AKB honors Annie, a much-loved Mom, daughter, and friend, who died by suicide in 2015 after struggling with her mental health. Annie’s warm embraces inspired her daughters – Mia, Christina, and Angela – to honor her by paying kindness forward, one hug at a time. “Annie’s Kindness Blankets” builds awareness of mental health and suicide through a growing movement of love, acceptance, and hope.

Volunteer-powered and one of Project 351’s most beloved partners, AKB creates and distributes fleece blankets for anyone experiencing pain, loss, illness, or someone who needs a little more love.

Each a reminder: It’s okay not to be okay, YOU matter, you belong here, you are not alone, you are worth it, you are important, you are loved.

Jose Arias, Boston Lukas Bushy, Falmouth Kimee Duplessis, Framingham Lily Hughes, Chesterfield Misha Kalava, Groton Claire Morin, Hancock Joseph Schneider Jr, Sheffield

Governor Charlie & Lauren Baker

72nd Governor of Massachusetts & Founder, Wonderfund PASSION, PURPOSE, PARTNERSHIP

President John Quincy Adams advised, “If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader.”

Indeed, the best leaders cause us to be more brave, noble, and true, and to stretch beyond what we believe we’re capable of—in service to others and in pursuit of the common good. For eight years, Governor Charlie Baker and First Lady Lauren Baker have given a Master Class in Adams’ definition of leadership. They teach by example: roll-up-your-sleeves, do-whatever-ittakes, youth-first, love-centered leadership. They have encouraged our Ambassadors to soar and remind them that service matters and kindness is necessary. From the Governor, we learn the power of collaboration and the nobility of service and from Lauren, Founder of The Wonderfund and record holder for most Ambassador Community Calls, the gift of generosity of spirit. Lauren never said “no” to a request or invitation – not once in eight years. And in the depth of COVID, provided steady reassurance and unconditional love. After two terms of magnificent leadership, the Governor and Lauren begin a new chapter and a new role as grandparents – and Service Heroes! We carry their lessons forward – to lead with love, serve with passion, and never relent on the vision of the Beloved Community.

Anika Teckchandani, Alumni Mentoring Corps, Braintree Lia Beatrice, Swampscott Achraf Boukirou, Revere Keira Carrara, Braintree Layla Flint, Berkley Kate McConatha, Eastham Azul Roberts, Stow Nicholas Roy, Millis Hannah Spratt, Leicester Angel Velasquez, Springfield

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General Gary Brito

Megan Burke

HONOR & COURAGE

CONSISTENT ACTS OF LOVE

Growing up on a small street in Hyannis, General Gary Brito’s universe of family, including his great grandfather and sister/Service Hero Lisa Fortenberry Spaloss, were all within a mile and a half. Their loving presence forged a foundation for a lifetime of exceptional service to our country.

First commissioned as an Infantry Officer in 1987, General Brito now serves as the Commanding General of United States Army Training and Doctrine Command – the first Black leader to earn the post and one of just 16 four-star U.S. Army generals currently serving our nation.

The history-making honor is well-placed as his accomplishments include the Distinguished Service Medal, with one Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster; Legion of Merit, with Silver Oak Leaf Cluster; Bronze Star Medal, with one Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster; Defense Meritorious Service Medal; Army Commendation Medal for Valor; and the Army Commendation Medal, with four Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster. Widely respected for his distinguished leadership and valor, General Brito inspires deep admiration for his devotion to his soldiers – to him, the Army’s most valuable asset. As an advisor to the People First Task Force when assigned as the Army G1, the General promotes a holistic approach to ensure the physical and mental health of his soldiers. And, fosters a culture of dignity, inclusion, and trust, where every enlisted can reach their full potential. For 35 years, General Brito has been a paragon of service and virtue – rooted in the example of his family’s love – inspiring the greatest excellence of those who are called to serve. Our admiration and gratitude is abiding.

At Project 351, we believe that every young person is remarkable. That standard was set early in our history by Megan Burke, Class of 2013, of Holliston. As an Ambassador, Megan’s mission was “to transform random acts of kindness into consistent acts of love.” An ethos that has defined her vision for change as capacity-building for good. That year, motivated by a deep love for her sibling, Megan founded The Beautiful Mind Campaign, a peer-to-peer mental health education and awareness organization. Through BMC, Megan honed her gifts as a respected advocate and fearless agent of change. A decade later and now a graduate of Villanova University, Megan’s passion has manifested as social entrepreneur and founder of Cuerd@s. Cuerd@s is a genderneutral line of thrifted clothing with tactile sensory patches to support self-soothing. Profits of sales are dedicated to a partnership with the BeWell Center, a psychiatric facility in Philadelphia.

Megan’s emphasis on sustainable clothing and hand craftsmanship is intentional. A fusion of love for the planet and for one another. “That is something I’m trying to get across: the woven fabric of our shared humanity. We’re doing this together.”

Commanding General, United States Army Training and Doctrine Command

Jack Favata, Alumni Mentoring Corps, Ludlow Nyah Blake, Brockton Grace Connor, Boxborough Camille Depuy, Dennis Isaac Hanna, Wayland Elise Modracek, Rochester Ana-Lucia Ohm, Northampton Pari Patel, Hanson Amelia Powers, Sterling Tyler Tatro, Ludlow Alyssa Vera, Springfield

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Project 351 Alumna, Class of 2013; Founder, Cuerd@s Clothing

Caitlin O’Donnell, Alumni Mentoring Corps, Mattapoisett Paige Henebry, Medfield Patrick Jansen, Salisbury Natalie Lanoue, Charlemont Aidan Octavius, Millbury Jayden Rios, Fairhaven Nala Thermora, Framingham Olivia Thompson, Mattapoisett Caitlin Wilson, Brookline

Sam Carson

Assistant Director, HMS MEDscience EVER TRUE

The kindest person you’ll ever know, Sam is an architect of Project 351 as founding team member and devoted champion. It was November 2010 and Sam, a student at Vanderbilt University, had left it all out on the field electing Governor Deval Patrick for a second term. And now, a new assignment from the Governor – Project 351. A concept that was yet unheard of with a team he did not know.

In no time at all, Sam was all-in – designing and

leading the strategy to recruit our first class of Ambassadors. And with that, a youth-led movement for change was born! For 13 years, we have loved, admired, and been grateful for Sam’s strategic guidance, impassioned advocacy, and deep loyalty. His legacy spans from Ambassador #1 to the navy shirts that fill this hall today and the 1.2 million neighbors they have served. And to each of us fortunate to call him a beloved friend, teammate, and mentor.

Sava Kassev, Alumni Mentoring Corps, Sharon Bruno Andrews Mundo, Hull Alexis Burt, Holland Allison Corado Trejo, Waltham Coltin Fausett, Orange Alexander Horton, Nantucket William Lippman, Dunstable Elsie Serrano, Sharon Sejal Shirole, Natick Caylie Whitney, Tisbury

Governor Paul Cellucci 69th Governor of Massachusetts COURAGEOUS DIPLOMAT

A beloved public servant, respected global diplomat, cherished friend, and devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Governor Paul Cellucci had a 30-year meteoric rise from small town politician in Hudson to Governor and US Ambassador. But, he may best be known by what he termed “my last campaign,” which was to raise millions of dollars and build national support for cutting edge ALS research at UMass Medical School. Even as he waged a courageous fight against the affliction, the late Governor Cellucci served the public. Together with his wife and best friend Jan, they established the UMass ALS Cellucci Fund, to create a $10 million endowment to fund bold research ideas to advance treatment and cure for ALS. “He won every race he ran, all the way up to governor,” said UMass Medical Center Chancellor Michael F. Collins, “But he wanted ALS research, not politics, to be his legacy. He wanted to do whatever he could to contribute.”

Jack Regan, Alumni Mentoring Corps, Abington Nafisah Alao, West Springfield Alique Brown, Harwich Ava Cassavant, Warren Lydia Deal, Boxford Dylan Gaffny, Hudson James Galvin, Rockland Benjamin Mason, Shirley

César Chávez

Labor Leader & Civil Rights Activist CHAMPION OF WORKERS RIGHTS

César Chévez is a civil rights activist, advocate of nonviolent social change, and Mexican-American labor leader. In 1962, he founded the National Farm Workers Association (NFWA) with activist Dolores Huerta to empower workers, address injustice, and root out generational poverty.

Together, they educated, organized, and amplified the voices of migrant farm workers to secure civil rights and economic justice. Chávez’s rallying cry was “Si, se puede!” and he proved this adage to be true. His lifelong campaign for fairness, dignity, and farm workers’ rights changed the lives of millions.

Today, a bust of Chávez is displayed prominently in President Biden’s Oval Office. A symbol, according to César’s son Paul, that “represents faith and empowerment for an entire people…and affirms the importance and the contributions of our community, immigrants and Latinos.”

Anna Noroian, Alumni Mentoring Corps, Hopkinton Madeline Cotter, Bolton Harley Edwards, Georgetown Ketsliany Lopez Velez, Heath Aidan McNamara, Athol Molly Schroder, Brookline Charles Walker, Plymouth Jaylese Wright, Worcester Sophia Zanella, Hopkinton

Welles Remy Crowther Volunteer Firefighter & 9.11 Hero THE MAN IN THE RED BANDANA

Each Fall, we unite to serve in remembrance of the September 11th terrorist attacks on our nation—a day that broke our hearts and forever changed our nation. More than two decades later, stories of courage, hope, and love endure—including the “Man with the Red Bandana.” Welles Remy Crowther was a young professional working in New York’s World Trade Center on the morning of the attacks. A graduate of Boston College and volunteer firefighter, Crowther immediately jumped into action. With extraordinary courage, he organized a rescue effort for colleagues trapped on the 78th floor—carrying victims to safety and returning to help again and again. In the days that followed, survivors spoke of the valor of “The Man in the Red Bandana”—bringing comfort to Crowther’s devastated family. Through 9.11 service,

Pemberley Mongeau, Princeton Sreemayi Reddy, Westwood

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we affirm we will never forget Welles and the other 2,976 loved ones lost. And, work to assure that their legacy is one of hope, light, and love.

Dessa Demears, Wales Lilian Feth, Sandwich Ethan LaConte, Wilmington Nina Martins, Easton

Robyn Douglas, Alumni Mentoring Corps, Harvard

Sasha O’Sullivan, Scituate

Briar Allis, Conway Lauren Arakelian, Boylston

Hailey Powers, Hampden Swara Sonchhatra, Walpole

Isabella Babb, Westport Avery Cooper, Belchertown William Dresser, Peabody Klever Morales Alonzo, Springfield Arjun Mukherjee, Northborough Annabelle Purcell, Harvard Kristi-Jo Salmon, Yarmouth

Jeff Duffany

Educator, Sandwich Public Schools; Bus Captain & Educator Mentor, Project 351 ALWAYS BY OUR SIDE

It is often said at Project 351 and always true–”Educators are our heroes–our ballast and inspiration.” The last three years have only deepened those truths as fundamental to our mission and movement. We’ve witnessed educators across the state redefine the meaning of “devotion” through over-and-above support for their students and our mission. In the face of unprecedented and historic challenges, they offered wisdom, compassion, resolve, and a way forward. Each year, we honor an educator as a Service Hero. Admittedly an impossible task, this year, we’re privileged to celebrate Jeff Duffany, 8th grade history teacher, bus captain, Educator Advisory Group member, and mentor to mighty Region 15. His students offer the most meaningful tribute. From Kelly Broder, ALC Regional Leader, Class of 2019, “Mr. Duffany is a powerful source of motivation for 351 in Sandwich and across the Cape and Islands. Known for his humor, compassion, and disdain of glitter (!), he shines with radiance and warmth and fuels the unwavering fire that is youth leadership.” And from Alumna and UNH student Molly Kent, “Mr. Duffany is the backbone of the Project 351 Sandwich team.

He stands up for us, looks out for us, and is always there when we need him. Mr. Duffany is more than an educator and a mentor, he is an advocate, activist, and change maker.” Thank you, Mr. Duffany, with 35ONELove from Sandwich, Region 15, and beyond!

Tara Geoghan, Alumni Mentoring Corps, Canton Nolan Barnes, Williamstown Nicole Carmenate, Worcester

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Anne Frank

Author & Holocaust Victim LOVE & LIGHT

It was 1942 and the rise of Hitler and his atrocities against millions of people of Jewish faith created peril for 13-year-old Anne Frank and her family in the Netherlands. They took safe refuge in a secret annex, where Anne documented two years of her family’s experience, and her observations, aspirations, and emotions. “In spite of everything I still believe that people are really good at heart...

How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world.”

Tragically, the Frank family was discovered and Anne, her mother, and sister became victims of the Holocaust. Today, The Diary of Anne Frank has been translated into 70 languages – an enduring testament to the power of hope. Anne’s courageous example inspires millions to stand boldly and unequivocally against fear, prejudice, and hatred.

Julia Caron, Alumni Mentoring Corps, Dartmouth Olivia Araujo, Dartmouth Lucas Bastien, East Brookfield Hannah Blauch, Medford Grace Jacques, Ashland Lydia McLean, Hanover Jeanny Sainvil, Gardner Lalitha Sarvendram, Hamilton Brielle Stine, Southampton

Pete Frates

Champion for a Cure for ALS PASSIONATE GREATNESS

Pete Frates, a native of Beverly and a Boston College Eagle, inspired our country and the world with his heroic fight to find a cure for ALS (also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease). His leadership of the Ice Bucket Challenge in 2014 mobilized a global community to donate $220 million in the short span of five weeks. The unprecedented fundraising hasn’t stopped, galvanizing resources and research to help find a cure for ALS. Frates, a son, brother,

husband, and father, was an accomplished athlete when diagnosed in 2012, and his loss was deeply felt all over the world upon his passing in 2019. His example of strength through love and progress through teamwork lives on through the Pete Frates Family Foundation. And, in the words of wisdom he left behind: “Be passionate, be genuine, be hardworking, and don’t ever be afraid to be great.”

Anya Patel, Alumni Mentoring Corps, Beverly Emily Andersen, Lakeville Elizabeth Cordero, Quincy Celina Cutler, Douglas Anna Dobkowski, Beverly Naedsa Gaspard, Milford Grace McCurdy, Winthrop Carlos Merced, Springfield Kelly Taylor, Templeton Benjamin Therrien, Adams

Amanda Gorman

Author, Poet, & Activist THE LANGUAGE OF HOPE

Amanda Gorman is our nation’s founding Youth Poet Laureate and the youngest inaugural poet in history. Amanda uses her lyrical gift of language to inspire hope and motivate activism for the environment, racial equality, and gender justice.

A graduate of Harvard University, Amanda is an author, youth delegate to the United Nations, and founder of “One Pen, One Page,” a nonprofit dedicated to literacy and youth leadership. At the 2021 Presidential Inaugural, she captured the spirit of our nation with her performance of “The Hill We Climb.” Amanda’s words contrasted the painful realities of our history with the aspirational vision of who we can and must be as a nation and a Beloved Community. As we begin this Ambassador year, we embrace Amanda’s insistence on leadership defined by compassion and courage: “The new dawn blooms as we free it / For there is always light / if only we’re brave enough to see it / If only we’re brave enough to be it.”

Kayla Vallecillo, Alumni Mentoring Corps, Upton Zeinab Alkinani, Quincy Genesis Castro, Lynn Sophie Coates, East Bridgewater Vendella Keier, Blandford Allison Luo, Westford Alyssa McKay, Plymouth Sol Shin, Winchester Lily Thieme, Upton Wyatt Whitman, New Salem

Emiliana Guereca

Founder, Women’s March Foundation UPLIFTING WOMEN

Emiliana “Emi” Guereca is courageous, resilient, and passionate—attributes nurtured as the seventh of 13 children in a family of Mexican immigrants living in Chicago. Working as a 12-year-old on a local factory’s overnight shift and witnessing her parents struggle on an hourly wage of $3.35 drove her ambitious dreams. Through grit and determination, Emi became the first in her family to graduate from college, become a successful entrepreneur, and in 2017, the founder and lead organizer of Los Angeles’ 750,000-person Women’s March. An event producer by trade and an activist by circumstance, Emi channels her passion, talents, and networks in pursuit of gender equality and representation in politics, and as advocate for Latino education, girls empowerment, and social justice. “The world needs more female risk-takers. Taking risks is good for the soul. Shout out to all the women that have come before me and to those just starting out. BE BOLD, TAKE RISKS. Do-ers are changemakers!”

Victoria Rich, Alumni Mentoring Corps, Worcester Morgan Pelchat, Spencer Joseph Porcello, Gloucester Kathryn Powell, East Longmeadow Madhavi Ramadas, Belmont Meredith Richardson, Brookline Giselle Selvig, Dover Kira Taylor, Townsend Elizabeth Thompson, Orleans Andrew Tran, Worcester

Diana Hwang

Founder & Executive Director, Asian American Women’s Political Initiative LIFT EVERY VOICE

In Diana Hwang’s 2016 run for Massachusetts State Senate, she sought the representation she knew her community needed. Throughout her career in government and the nonprofit sector, Diana was struck by the lack of Asian-American women in positions of influence and leadership.

The facts: although the U.S. population of Asian American Pacific Islanders (AAPI) is 6.1% percent, only 0.9% of elected officials are AAPI. This void of culture, history, perspective, and wisdom creates a dangerous vulnerability for hate, bias, and discrimination. Making the invisible, visible – and strong and powerful – became 2023 13TH ANNUAL LAUNCH DAY | 19

Diana’s calling. In 2017, she launched the AsianAmerican Women’s Political Initiative (AAWPI), the nation’s first political leadership organization for Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) women. AAWPI builds a pipeline of low-income and immigrant women leaders who, Hwang reflects,“rarely see themselves reflected in government but are exactly the leaders we need.”

Next on the horizon? National infrastructure to support AAWPI’s vision for deep and lasting civic engagement, voting, community organizing, and careers in politics – as professional or candidate.

Hwang knows that bravery inspires bravery, and this year we celebrate hers.

compass for Heidi’s work to honor all that is true and just and beautiful in our global community.

Meera Parekh, Alumni Mentoring Corps, Newton

Boston Civil Rights Heroes

Rachel Cronin, Franklin Dakota Cusimano, Shelburne Lillian Houle, Wendell Adelaide Johnston-Ransom, Rockport Vincent Karppinen, Freetown Elnaz Khosraviani, Lexington Olivia McLoughlin, Newton Persephone Piermarini, West Brookfield

Heidi Johnson

Director, Civic Engagement, Wellesley College GLOBAL SOUL

Heidi Johnson lives her love out loud. A deep, abiding love for this country and its’ complex and glorious history. A passion for social justice, manifest in transformative leadership as educator, architect, and creative entrepreneur. A life’s mission as tapestry-creator, weaving community at City Year and as founder of Purple Suitcase, an experiential educational strategy centered on global cultural traditions. That path led to Wellesley College, where she leads Civic Engagement, the activation of student values and skills in pursuit of social justice. Heidi’s pedagogy sparks discovery and communion among the richly diverse and across generations. Her model is human-centered and empathy-driven. She explains, “My work is to remind people of the joy—not the fear—of the other.” This mindset is rooted in the teachings of her parents, who were married at a time when their union—that of an African American Christian man and first generation Jewish woman— was still illegal in many states. Their marriage may have defied written law, but how Carl and Lois lived endures as possibility realized through acceptance, inclusion, and respect for the dignity of all. And, as

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Charlie Hernandez, Alumni Mentoring Corps, Abington Megan Alley, Hopedale Da’Rece Bond, Waltham Hiruth Chapman, Falmouth Aviva Dias, Medford Amelia Kellogg, Wilbraham Evangeline McCleary, Abington Cailin McKellick, Montgomery Carla Pileeki Fernandes, Ayer

Dr. Katherine & Hubie Jones HIGHER GROUND

The Boston Globe once observed that “Hubie Jones has touched more lives around Greater Boston than any individual in the past half-century… as a longstanding bridge between haves and have-nots, and between blacks and whites.” The legions who love Hubie and who’ve learned from his lifetime as upstander, community builder, and audacious dream-maker, know this as fact.

And one thing further, that Hubie would gently remind us that none of his life’s work was possible but for the loving partnership with his wife, Katherine. Bostonians by way of New York City, the Jones’ resumes track ambitious and visionary leadership as the center of our region’s most complex and polarizing issues – civil rights, racial justice, educational opportunity, and economic advancement. Their milestones for justice are many, forged with integrity, humility, and open hearts. From landmark laws expanding special education and bi-lingual instruction to the founding of Metropolitan Council for Educational Opportunities (METCO) to the lyrical legacy of Boston’s Children’s Chorus. Married for 66 years, Katherine and Hubie raised eight children as they raised the hopes, aspirations, and dreams of countless thousands more.

Pranav Abburi, Alumni Mentoring Corps, Chelmsford Colin Boyd, Savoy Camden Cousineau, Rowe Madeline Devin, Ashburnham Ashley Diaz-Castillo, Everett Colton Jansen, Truro Emery O’Donnell, Concord Amaya Parmar, Norwell Nora Williamson, Chelmsford

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. & Coretta Scott King Civil Rights Heroes

SIDE-BY-SIDE TOWARD JUSTICE

We know them as the movement makers that forever changed our country. What is less known is the special bond they share with Boston, where they fell in love. That love is now memorialized by “The Embrace” on the Boston Common. The Kings famously met in January 1952, on a blind date for lunch at Sharaf’s Cafeteria. Dr. King was a 22 yearold prodigy pursuing a Ph.D. at Boston University, while Coretta was a 24-year-old student at the New England Conservatory of Music. It was love at first sight for him, but not so fast for Coretta! She required a courtship and was eventually won over by his sense of humor, dancing skills, and intellect.

Soon, as journalist Clennon King wrote,“They became inseparable, going everywhere together.

To hear pianist Arthur Rubinstein at Symphony Hall, attend his sermons at Twelfth Baptist, ride the roller coaster and Ferris wheel at Revere Beach, attend a friend’s weekend party in Watertown.”

Boston became the foundation of their shared devotion to one another and, equally to the causes of justice, freedom, and equality. Their partnership felt like destiny. Coretta would later reflect, “We had been thrust into the forefront of a movement to liberate oppressed people. I felt blessed to have been called to be a part of such a noble and historic cause…,to be a co-worker with a man whose life would have so profound an impact on the world.”

Representative Michael Kushmerek

State Representative, 3rd Worcester District, Massachusetts STAND UP. LIFT UP.

Representative Mike Kushmerek believes in the American Dream because he’s lived it. And, he is deeply grateful. But, his hope is to rebuild and reimagine the American Dream so that everyone has a fair and equal shot. Representative Kushmerek’s path to Beacon Hill is both aweinspiring and deeply human and relatable during these times of challenge. Rep. Kushmerek is the product of a home that battled substance abuse, mental health illness, and homelessness. As a high school dropout with a GED, it was the grace of others’ kindness and encouragement that led him to Fitchburg State, where he earned two degrees and began a successful career in higher education and soon, politics. From the youngest City Council President in Fitchburg to the State House as State Representative in 2020! Now married to Carissa with a son Gabriel, Representative Kushmerek never forgets his life’s journey. And, is determined to ensure that those “who share the same drive, persistence, and dedication” will have an equitable opportunity to pursue their dreams and goals.

Jordan Krawczyk, Alumni Mentoring Corps, Westminster Emmett Bastek, Williamsburg Addison Blake, Oak Bluffs Akshara Dhake, Burlington Emma Goodwin, Westminster Alexandra Lay, Arlington

Lile Simmons, Alumni Mentoring Corps, Medway Ammar Alomar, Uxbridge Ava Andrews, Raynham Kamoi Brown, Brewster

Genevieve Le, Grafton Dom Loor, Reading Hunter Rabion, Fitchburg Tyler Stone, Groveland

Robert Griffin, Norwood Hadley McGovern, Fitchburg Brenna Moreno, Granby Emery Rotter, Lanesborough Madhurika Sivakumar, Westford Charlotte Sutcliffe, Newton

Josh Kraft

President, New England Patriots Foundation ALL HEART

Take a drive around Massachusetts and evidence of Josh Kraft’s heart and humanity are everywhere.

If you’re a nonprofit committed to young people, eradicating hate, expanding equity, and fiercely committed to social and racial justice..Josh is there. If you’re a young person eager to make a difference, strive academically, earn your opportunity, and commit to the vision of an inclusive and just community…Josh is there.

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The landscape of Josh’s generosity, strategic vision, and mentorship is expansive and deep… touching untold thousands of lives with signature humility, humor, and hope. At the helm of the Patriots Foundation, Josh’s reach is New Englandwide – providing three million meals to veterans; mobile health units to care for those most vulnerable; transformative funds to increase the excellence of the nonprofit sector, and confronting injustice through Together Beat Hate, Patriots Player Social Justice Fund, and leadership on the Massachusetts Hate Crimes Task Force. We know well the transformative impact of Josh’s belief.

He and his dad have been with us from the very start as champions, service partners, Leadership Reunion hosts, and generous investors in the dreams of an annual Myra H. Kraft Giving Back Scholar. Josh inspires us and motivates us to dream big on behalf of every Ambassador who leads and child we serve. As he has so well lived, there is no greater mission.

Ben Abbott, Alumni Mentoring Corps, North Andover Lewin Coady, Easthampton Sarah Beatriz Figueiredo, Everett Evan Finamore, Newton Kelviny Gomes Monteiro, Whitman Lila Lobel, North Andover Clare McNamara, Athol Lael Pavlak, Florida Karrine Rollins, Cohasset

Congressman John Lewis

Civil Rights Icon, Congressman, Bridge Builder GOOD TROUBLEMAKER

A son of sharecroppers, John Lewis devoted his life to civil rights, equality, and opportunity for all Americans. This icon of the Civil Rights Movement began his march toward justice as leader of youth activism and deputy to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. At age 23, Lewis led student engagement in the Civil Rights Movement and served as the youngest speaker at the historic March on Washington.

Two years later in Selma, Alabama, Lewis, Hosea Williams, and hundreds of Civil Rights activists set off over the Edmund Pettus Bridge in pursuit of the right to vote. Met by violence, but undeterred in their resolve, “Bloody Sunday” mobilized a movement and galvanized a nation. The march of “the boy from Troy” led to the United States House of Representatives, where he served for 34 years.

And, to the White House, where President Barack Obama awarded him the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian honor. This giant among heroes passed in 2020, but John 22 | PROJECT 351

Lewis’ spirit lives on in the generations of bridge builders, upstanders, and Good Troublemakers he inspired.

Ekaavli Daga, Alumni Mentoring Corps, Holden Triniti Barre, Montague Mateo Barresi, Longmeadow Rowan Clarke, Holden Jeffrey Dong, Brookline Madison Geer, Bridgewater Brigitte Parada, Lynn Isabelle Reda, Methuen Jouri Shehadeh, Mansfield CJ Zwirek, Tewksbury

Yo-Yo Ma

World Renowned Cellist THE SYMPHONY OF COMMUNITY

From Sesame Street to the White House, Yo-Yo Ma uses music to build bridges of understanding and foster hope in times of greatest challenge.

Ma is celebrated as one of the greatest cellists of the twentieth century and is admired for the vitality and inspired adaptations of his music. Of equal influence and inspiration is Ma’s leadership as humanitarian and cultural bridge builder.

For almost two decades, he has led Silkroad to unite arts, education, and business to “create unexpected connections, collaborations, and communities in pursuit of meaningful change.” The pandemic motivated #SongsofComfort, a virtual performance series that mobilized musicians across six continents to share their gifts to soothe and heal. Ma’s newest endeavor is “Our Common Nature,” which connects the beauty of music with the grandeur of nature to build relationships, foster environmental stewardship, and inspire awe.

Jocelyn Graham, Alumni Mentoring Corps, Mendon Tanner Biagini, Ashfield Rachel Juarbe, Erving Abigail Kelley, South Hadley Khloe Kenerson, Pembroke Nya’Lia Lindsey, Stoughton William Lowney, Marshfield Olivia Wright, Andover

Nelson Mandela

First President of a Free South Africa DEMOCRACY BUILDER

Nelson Mandela helped lead South Africa out of racist apartheid rule with a message of reconciliation that inspired the world. Jailed

for almost thirty years because of his fight for freedom, Mandela became the first democratically elected President of a free South Africa. A symbol for global human rights, his legacy lives through the Nelson Mandela Foundation. It leads a global celebration of Mandela’s July birthday with acts of service and the promotion of peace, reconciliation, and cultural diversity. And, in December, the Foundation marked the ninth year since Mandela’s passing with the One Million Tree Campaign, to promote environmental justice, food security, and the mitigation of climate change. Nelson Mandela’s lessons endure in those inspired to act and empowered to lead by his courageous humanity.

Abigail Rainsford, Alumni Mentoring Corps, Rowley Rachel Barber, Randolph Charles Donovan, Carver Grace Fyrberg, Rowley Leona Le, Worcester Madelyn Moreau, Monson Grace Namujuzi, Leominster Madelyn Perillo, Dedham Nataly Slysz, Hatfield Anne Stevens, Essex

Iqbal Masih

Modern Abolitionist FREEDOM FIGHTER

At four years old, Iqbal Masih was sold into bonded labor for $12, one of tens of thousands of enslaved Pakistani children. For fourteen hours a day, seven days a week, Iqbal was bound by chains to weave carpets for commercial sale. The spirit of freedom called him at age 10, when he escaped to the safety of a school. There he gained the knowledge and skill to help liberate more than 3,000 Pakistani child slaves. Iqbal’s remarkable courage and efforts to end childhood slavery gained global renown, including the 1994 Reebok Human Rights Award. During his visit to the States, Iqbal visited Quincy’s Broad Meadows Middle School, where he planted the seeds for change. In tribute, the Broad Meadows community built a school in Pakistan and founded Operation Day’s Work USA. Tragically, at 12 years old, Iqbal’s voice was silenced by an assassin’s bullet. His courageous legacy endures, inspiring a global community to seek human rights for all.

Amirah Jeffery, Lincoln Troy Jurczyk, Ware Prisha Nair, Shrewsbury Brandon Nista, Halifax Edith Simpson, Brookfield Margot Stern, Provincetown

Juana Matias

Regional Administrator: New England, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development OPPORTUNITY & OPTISIM

“What really motivates me is my passion and love for public service. One isolated moment in high school made me want to get involved. I was doing an internship at a district court and there was such a huge difference in legal representation that minorities were getting in court. From that moment on, I decided I wanted to become an attorney. Our community has so much need.” Juana Matias is a force of ambition, talent, and passion that she channels to eradicate racial, social, and economic inequities. Born in the Dominican Republic, she was raised in Haverhill by parents who instilled her love of education and ethic of hard work. Juana earned her law degree from Suffolk University, and served her community as social worker, advocate for minors in immigration court, AmeriCorps legal advocate, and at age 28, the first Latina immigrant woman elected to the Massachusetts House of Representatives! Now, as Regional Administrator for Housing and Urban Development for the Biden Administration, Juana works to ensure fair and equal housing opportunity for all. She attributes her rapid but hard earned success to her “Leadership Superpower: The passion and conviction I implement behind my work and my ability to inspire others.”

Lorelei Kellum, Alumni Mentoring Corps, Rehoboth Aiden Archeval, Springfield Chase Arvidson, Wenham Ryan Green, Ashby Emily Lieu, Lowell Finley O’Doherty, Bourne Nicolette Paradis, Northbridge Paxton Ramos, Rehoboth Jasna Singh, Lexington Natalie Smith, Dudley

Emma Keeley, Alumni Mentoring Corps, Shrewsbury Quinn Butler-Carlson, New Marlborough Julia Ghergurovich, Stoneham Abigail Henry, West Tisbury

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Marcus McNeill

Project 351 Alumnus, Class of 2018; Student, American Unviersity GENERATION CHANGE

When asked which Alumni she would select as Service Hero, Anika Teckchandani offered, “Marcus – because he is truly one of the most inspiring leaders I have ever met. He lights up every room he’s in with his beautiful reflections and words.”

Marcus McNeill, Class of 2018 of Dorchester, dazzles us with his many prominent leadership roles – such as membership on Mayor Michelle Wu’s Transition Team; notable accolades, including the youngest honoree on Boston Magazine’s list of “100 Most Influential Bostonians”; and passion for social change, as a founding “Emerging Leader” at Harvard’s Institute of Politics. But what we love best is his beaming smile, beautiful spirit, and abiding loyalty to lift up each new Ambassador Class as mentor, role model, and advocate. He reflects, “Too frequently, students’ voices aren’t heard or taken seriously. I want to be at the forefront of changing that paradigm. I love to use my voice as a microphone to advocate for students and others who don’t always feel that they are heard…as a means to create sustainable change.”

Marcus leads, we follow, and the world is better for it.

Maeve Padien, Alumni Mentoring Corps, Arlington Eshaan Adhiya, Arlington Natalie Bennett, Rutland Valerie Bzomowski, Plainfield Adrian Golemo, Paxton Ella Hamel, Newton Aubrey Harris, Dighton Casper Keyes, Wellfleet Anna Oliva, Lee August Patterson, Acton Lindsay Squadrito, Lynnfield

Thaddeus Miles

Founder, Hoodfit & Black Joy; Senior Director of Diversity Initiatives, MassHousing PORTRAITS OF JOY

Thaddeus Miles is an artist of community, who sees beauty through his camera’s lens and in the rich mosaic of our diverse neighborhoods. As Director of Community Services for MassHousing, Thaddeus is the architect of an expansive range of programs that build safe, vibrant, and engaged communities across Massachusetts. He is a veteran of the

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Air Force and believes deeply in the promise of democracy as one that lifts and unites all people.

Thaddeus’ great passion for young people has motivated innovative mentoring and enrichment programs that promote peace, creative selfexpression, and accountable leadership. He is the founder of HoodFit, a movement which amplifies the positive attributes of community to promote wellness of both body and mind, resilience, and thoughtful problem solving. And, the Black Joy Project, to highlight and inspire joy in the Black community, an effort that reflects Thaddeus’ belief that “Joy is resilience.”

Palak Yadav, Alumni Mentoring Corps, Medway Mary MacDonald, Taunton Aurelia Mello, Medway Jasper Melton III, Springfield Anna Niles, Middlefield Isla Paraguya, Reading Abasi Semakula, Maynard Seanni Soto, Boston Carly Taylor, Plympton Paul Vangos, Auburn

Imari Paris Jeffries

Exectuive Director, Embrace Boston EMBRACING THE DREAM

Veteran, community worker, activist, non-profit leader, partner, father, friend. As Executive Director of Embrace Boston, Imari inspires us to reimagine what is possible, energize change, and build collective action in pursuit of a radically inclusive and equitable Boston – and beyond.

Born in Tennessee, Imari’s local roots were formed as enlisted military stationed at Fort Devens.

Fortunately for us, Imari decided to stay; investing his GI Bill benefits at UMass-Boston where he earned his bachelor degree, masters, and doctorate.

Imari is both a truth teller and an optimistic visionary. He sees the unlimited possibility of Boston and the stark reality of systemic and structural racism that impedes its potential. Under his leadership, Embrace Boston is expansive and inclusive in its mandate for change. Their blueprint includes a Center for Economic Justice, a hub for research, thought leadership, and action; and Embrace Ideas, which engages the community in anti-racist discourse through the arts and humanities. And, it includes – and requires – every one of us. To embrace Imari’s hopeful aspiration, “I hope this memorial to love, peace, justice and inclusion becomes a part of who Bostonians think they are. And that the world sees that, too.”

Faleehah Dam, Alumni Mentoring Corps, Foxborough Madeleine D’Amelia, Sudbury Rose Dupuis, Lenox Jayda Gonzalez, Lynn Grace Goodman, Foxborough Mylie Provencher, Tyngsborough Kaitlyn Roberts, Greenfield Orion Rocci, New Bedford Emmett Taylor, Aquinnah Kathleen Tejada, Worcester

Dolly Parton

Singer-Songwriter & Philanthropist A BEDAZZLED HEART

Born the fourth of 12 children in a mountain home in rural East Tennessee, Dolly Parton’s “rags to rhinestones” story reads like a Hollywood movie. But, her reality is even more spectacular.

A songwriter by age 10, Parton would debut at the Grand Ole Opry just three years later.

And like a comet, her radiant spirit soared to unimaginable heights. Dolly’s journey was paved with extraordinary talent, brilliant business savvy, true grit, and an outsized heart. Considered one of the most successful and beloved performing artists of all time, Dolly has been a Kennedy Center honoree, Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award recipient, and one of Time Magazine’s 100 most influential world leaders. Dolly’s talent is eclipsed only by her humanitarianism, which was recently recognized by the $100 million Bezos Courage and Civility Award. Her investments alleviate poverty, strengthen early college access, advance medical research (including a $1 million gift that led to the development of a COVID-19 vaccine), uplift the LGBTQ community, and encourage literacy through her Imagination Library. To date, Dolly has distributed 195 million children’s books around the world! This is Dolly’s true passion – to seek out the good, celebrate the kind, and be generous in love.

Jasmine Findlen, Alumni Mentoring Corps, Canton Roan Boeri, Russell Emma Eldredge, Chatham Lilly Godwin, Otis Jaidyn Hill, Barre Niko King-Mahan, Marblehead Caroline Lee, Melrose Jazmine Martins, Acushnet Karla Suastegui Mateo, Springfield Arnish Tripathi, Canton

Governor Deval Patrick 71st Governor of Massachusetts FOUNDER • SERVICE LEADER

Governor Deval Patrick, the Commonwealth’s 71st Governor, was the state’s first Black chief executive and only the second Black governor in the nation.

His childhood in the South Side of Chicago inspired his passion for education and opportunity, and commitment to generational responsibility and social justice. As founding Honorary Chair of Project 351, Governor Patrick helped build the foundation for 4,492 Ambassadors to “unite, act, lead” through transformational service in the Commonwealth’s 351 cities and towns. Governor Patrick is Co-Director of the Center for Public Leadership at the Harvard Kennedy School, and a passionate advocate of public service, grassroots mobilization, and civil public discourse. He often reminds us that change is realized when we “turn towards each other, rather than against one another.” As beloved champion and advisor to Project 351, Governor Patrick continues to inspire our youth-led movement for change.

Bryce Cioffi, Alumni Mentoring Corps, Chilmark Michael Braxton lll, Taunton Anoushka Fernandes, Westborough Micah Nichols, Carlisle Sophia Peckham, Richmond Jonathan Pinelli, Topsfield Adelaide Ring-Peterson, Weymouth Cassidy Smith, Williamstown Zoe Treitman, Chilmark Sofia Ugalde, Brookline

Jeff Perroti

Founding Director, Safe Schools Program for LGBTQ Students LOVE IS LOVE

At a time when too many were silent on the issue of queer students’ safety in public schools, Jeff Perrotti and his co-author, Kim Westheimer, wrote the book on it. When the Drama Club is Not Enough is the culmination of Perrotti and Westheimer’s work creating the Safe Schools Program in 1993. Safe Schools was founded to create a safe and welcoming atmosphere for gay and lesbian students in Massachusetts’ public schools. One that nurtured gay and lesbian identity and self-esteem at the elementary, middle, and high school level. That scope has since expanded to the representation and safety of transgender and gender expansive students. A broad and 2023 13TH ANNUAL LAUNCH DAY | 25

inclusive vision that reflects Jeff’s canyon-sized heart and spirit of humanity – with room, love, and respect for everyone. This year, to mark their 30th anniversary, the Massachusetts Commission on LGBTQ Youth has established the Jeff Perrotti LGBTQ Student Leadership Scholarships in recognition of three decades of transformational leadership and in celebration of a new generation of leaders who carry their shared mission forward.

Maeve Lucey, Alumni Mentoring Corps, West Newbury

Calvin Lewis, Alumni Mentoring Corps, Cambridge

Conor Price, West Newbury

Colden Blackwell, Charlton Remy De Movellan, Stockbridge Jesily Esponilla, Framingham Alina Gavrichev, Pepperell Eli Herrera, Buckland Jack LaRoche, Leominster Victoria Milner, Lunenburg Jeinalis Montanez, Quincy Eniyah Petit-Frere, Brookline

Nicolly Barbosa, Malden Cameron Delamere, Hardwick Marimay Diaz Chan, Cambridge Sal Herbert, Holliston Hannah Humphrey, Colrain Jack Kach, Worcester Savannah Martin, Boston Victoria Vaz, Peabody Grace Warren, Quincy

Captain Ross Reynolds

Captain, United States Marine Corps HONOR & REMEMBER

Recently, Scott and Cathy Reynolds of Leominster discovered a binder filled with the reflections and dreams of their son Ross. Of no surprise to them, an eighth grade Ross wrote of the joys of volunteerism and his passion for service. For 27 years, dedicated service was Captain Reynold’s calling card and his actions expressed his devotion to his country and adoration for his family. His words would forecast an exemplary career as a student, an athlete, civic leader, and decorated Marine Aviator.

And, endure as testament to hishonor, courage, and ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation.

In March of 2022, Captain Reynolds–beloved son, cherished brother, and devoted husband–was tragically killed alongside his crew in an Osprey aircraft crash on a NATO training mission in Norway. The loss to his family, community, and our nation is profound. At Ross’ services, his sister Nicole spoke of what set him apart, “My brother Ross lived an extraordinary life, only a few of us could dream of. From a young age, he set his mind to a goal, and there was nothing he couldn’t accomplish. Ross knew about hope. He trusted in that hope and lived it.” Rick Voutour, Director, Leominster Veterans Service said it best, “He was everything that is good about America.” We honor Captain Ross Reynolds, give thanks for his heroic service, and hold his family in our hearts.

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Martin Richard

3RD GRADER • PEACEMAKER

Martin Richard was a son, brother, grandson, cousin, friend, neighbor, Little League teammate, and loyal Boston sports fan. With a huge smile and twinkling eyes, this beautiful 8-year-old boy created joy, spread acts of kindness, and was a friend to all in his neighborhood of Dorchester.

Tragically, Martin lost his life as a result of the bombings near the finish line of the Boston Marathon in 2013. Ever since, Martin’s message of peace has inspired the world to love more, do good, and build unity. Bill and Denise Richard wrote of Martin’s compassionate view of the world: “Martin ‘got it’—he knew what it took to be a good person. He knew that we had to care for one another and care more deeply for those who couldn’t care for themselves.” The Project 351 community is deeply honored to partner with our friends, the Richard family, to spread Martin’s message of peace, unity, and kindness.

Reilly Bergin, Alumni Mentoring Corps, Milton Adam Cheairs, Milton Ava DeJackome, Petersham Alison Diez Jaramillo, Revere Jonathan Luu, Wellesley Amy Malavich, Dracut Ryan Murray, Sandisfield Hailey O’Toole, Clinton Yanira Uribe Rosa, Marlborough Alexi Weaver, Cheshire Samuel Williams, Boston

Marcia Robinson

Nonprofit Strategic Advisor LOVE LOUDLY

Where there is love and light, you’ll find Marcia.

So it is fitting she was recognized as our nation’s #6644 Point of Light. And no surprise to learn

that the origin of “One Love” – a state of universal and inclusive love and respect for all people – is Jamaica, the country of Marcia’s birth. A treasured mom, sister, wife, and friend, Marcia’s calling is to uplift our common humanity. With expertise as a community builder, mentor, and service warrior, Marcia serves as a strategic advisor to youthcentered organizations including the Foundation To Be Named Later, Ripples of Hope, and a very grateful Project 351. This afternoon’s service, designed with Marcia, reflects her spirit—it is fully optimistic, hopeful, transformative, and shoulderto-shoulder in 351ONELove.

Meredith Wu, Alumni Mentoring Corps, Southborough Charlie Athanas, Manchester-by-the-Sea Madeline D’Angelo, North Reading Natalie Etienne, Brockton Sahil Gandhi, Billerica Alexis Randolph, Wareham Everett Richman, Southborough Amelia Steward-Frey, Huntington Lyla Travers, Merrimac Amanda Yanez, Holbrook

coco rosenberg

Teaching Artist, Emerson University A CANVAS FOR COMMUNITY

coco (corine) rosenberg (they/themme) is an artist, educator, community organizer, and care worker. As Teaching Artist at the Elma Lewis Center in the Social Justice Center at Emerson University, their work is rooted in the power of the arts to amplify, accelerate, and enrich social justice movements. coco draws from their lived experience as a queer, trans, Jewish, and disabled person to inform their mixed-media art. Their work includes printmaking, poetry, and textile art. coco is also a Teaching Artist and Gallery Teacher at the ICA Boston. They hold a Ed.M. in Arts in Education from the Harvard Graduate School of Education, and served as Fulbright Scholar in the West African nation of Benin. There, coco created opportunities for youth to engage in their community, initiate social change, and promote learning through the arts. They reflect, “I think that art is something so essential to all of us and our soul…any space that creates art and explores the power of art is deeply meaningful. I think we need more spaces where we can gather and grapple and in the process, grow.”

Isabel Coviello, Alumni Mentoring Corps, Hubbardston Noah Bascon, Nahant Jonathan Bautista-Santos, Sheffield

Logan Bruley, Hubbardston Merima Didic Bosnjak, Worcester Ava Harvey, Billerica Kayla Maguire, Woburn Naomi Shum, North Attleborough Sadie Sullivan, Sunderland Taliah Westbrook, Norfolk

Mother Teresa Saint & Missionary FAITH & DEVOTION

A global icon of humanity, Mother Teresa of Calcutta represents the highest level of selflessness and love-in-action. Born in Macedonia to Albanian parents, Mother Teresa was called to be a missionary at age 12. Guided by wisdom gained as a teacher in India, she established the Missionaries of Charity. Under Mother Teresa’s leadership, the Missionaries established a hospice; centers for the blind, aged and disabled; and a leper colony.

She devoted her life to the support and comfort of the world’s poor, sick, unwanted, and most vulnerable. Mother Teresa was canonized as a Saint in September 2016. As we begin our service year, Mother Teresa teaches, “Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love.”

Maddie Cronin, Alumni Mentoring Corps, Sherborn Sabrina Anderson, Taunton Patrick Andrews, Gill Penelope Byrnes, Newbury Amelia Dawe, Wrentham Davis DeLuties, Middleton Ryleigh Hayes-Golding, Deerfield Hope Hebert, Sherborn Vanessa Lee, Norton Juniper Raczkowski, West Stockbridge Edith Tufts, Sutton

Greta Thunberg Climate Activist

FEARLESSLY PERSISTENT

Greta Thunberg powerfully demonstrates the power of one. At age 15, she began a School Strike for Climate as the sole protester outside the Swedish parliament. Inspired by Greta’s resolve, a global wave of youth activism was born, demanding accountability and action from those in positions of power. Her heritage foretold her passion for the planet: Greta is a descendant of Swedish chemist Svante Arrhenius, who predicted global heating from carbon emissions—122

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years ago! Her curiosity as a third grader led to a pursuit of knowledge, data, and evidence on climate change and to a growing discontent with inaction. Greta is on the autism spectrum, and proudly attributes it as a gift: “I see the world a bit different, from another perspective.” That perspective and her fearlessness has powered an international movement of millions to protect our planet that will not stop. At age 21, Greta is the youngest Time Person of the Year, on Forbes’ list of the World’s 100 Most Powerful Women, and is a four-time nominee for the Nobel Peace Prize. Small in stature, but mighty in heart, spirit, and vision, Greta tells the world, “We have not come here to beg world leaders to care…We have come here to let you know that change is coming, whether you like it or not.”

Kate Heppner, Alumni Mentoring Corps, Salem Matthieu Dores, Sturbridge Meryl Gilbert, Duxbury August Luf, Stockbridge Grace Lynch, Middleborough Logan MacKnight, Newburyport Marcella Mukasa, Salem Whitney Reno, North Brookfield Alejandra Rondon, Lawrence Isabella Silva, Malden Palber Zidig, Hadley

Gladys Vega

Executive Director, La Colaborativa THE POWER OF LOVE

Gladys Vega’s mission is singular, ”I wake up, Chelsea and go to sleep, Chelsea. It’s Chelsea, Chelsea, Chelsea! I love my community, it is what drives me.” Gladys projects the vibrancy, passion, and determination of this tight knit community in the shadow of the Tobin Bridge. At La Colaborativa, the nonprofit led by Vega, everyone is welcome as family. And, every challenge is faced with unconditional support—evictions, hunger, support for victims of domestic violence, and sustained needs created by the pandemic. Born in Puerto Rico, Gladys moved to Chelsea at age 9. She started as a receptionist at La Colaborativa and ascended to Executive Director with brilliance, relentlessness, and emphasis on representation, cultural pride, and local decision making. Today, La Colaborativa’s reach includes East Boston, Everett, Lynn, Revere, and Malden, “Representation matters.

It is time for people of color to make decisions for themselves and their own communities. We

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must be seen and heard. La Colaborativa protects, uplifts, and empowers every individual to foster leadership from within communities of color and immigrant communities. This is the only way that real change can happen.”

Yasmine Laabadla, Alumni Mentoring Corps, Everett Mia Allen, Everett Maddox Caron, Watertown Geovanny Fernandes Brito, Chelsea Susie Francisco Ribeiro, Quincy Meghan Hourihan, Lancaster Cecilia Kincaid, Clarksburg Josephine Pepper, Saugus Luke Stevens, Berlin Vikram Voleti, Bedford

Enoch O’Dell “Woody” Woodhouse Brigadier General, Tuskegee Airmen; Tuskegee Airmen LOVE & VALOR

Living legend Brigadier General Enoch O’Dell “Woody” Woodhouse is one of the last surviving Tuskegee Airmen, America’s first all-Black combat flying unit and one of the world’s most celebrated military units. His life, a triumph of courage and amazing grace, tells the story of America in all of its glory and pain. A Roxbury native and son of an African Methodist Episcopal minister, Woodhouse enlisted in the Army following the attack on Pearl Harbor. Woodhouse recalls his mother’s words,“Boys, America is at war. I want you to serve your country.’ And, that’s what we did.” Too young for combat, Woodhouse was commissioned as a second lieutenant, and eventually became the Tuskegee Airmen’s paymaster. Woodhouse enlisted to protect his country, a compact America didn’t return, as Black soldiers faced racism, discrimination, and cruelty.

The Tuskegee Airmen was the first opportunity for Black soldiers to train as aviators and they soared with exemplary leadership.Their distinguished service was a catalyst for President Harry Truman’s mandate to end racial segregation in the military in 1948. Discharged from active duty in 1949, Woodhouse joined the Air Force Reserve, earning his undergraduate degree from Yale and a law degree from Boston University. His service to our nation is lifelong through 50 years of practiced law and as the first black courier for the U.S. State Department. In 2006, more than six decades after being denied entry to his military dining hall because of the color of his skin, President George

W. Bush awarded the Congressional Gold Medal to Woodhouse and the Tuskegee Airmen—a most deserved tribute to an American hero and 96 years of his extraordinary life.

James Keefe, Alumni Mentoring Corps, Needham James Benners, Mashpee Landon Clark, Hawley Trinity Crompton, Webster Madelyn Crowell, Edgartown Donnell Davis, Boston Savannah LeBeau, Brimfield Brianna Monast, Somerset Anray Sheng, Needham Marcelino Vasconcelos, Fall River

Malala Yousafzai

Girls’ Education Activist & Nobel Laureate

by the Taliban’s bullet. Rather, their violent opposition fueled an even greater passion as a global advocate for millions of youth through the Malala Fund. In 2014, at age 17, Malala became the youngest Nobel Peace Prize Laureate in recognition of her transformative efforts to help girls unlock their potential and access education against extraordinary odds. Now married and a graduate of the University of Oxford, Malala is fully immersed in the mission of the Malala Fund.

Her foremost goal is to secure 12-years of free, safe, and quality education for 130 million girls worldwide. And, to mobilize a global network of champions to leverage their collective power to uplift and invest in girls.

Reaghan Donovan, Alumni Mentoring Corps, Littleton Emil Chase, Worthington Nora Christofferson, Hingham

GLOBAL HEROINE

Isabella Corra, West Boylston

From humble roots in Swat, Pakistan, a young global heroine of courage and vision was born.

Malala’s commitment to global education and the empowerment of girls could not be silenced

Kara Faria, Seekonk

Emily Dupuis, Oxford Rebecca Fusco, Littleton Nathan Ramani, Andover James Russell, Marion Josephine Waiveris, Monterey

Community of Heroes These heroes—local, national, and global—inspired our service, motivated our compassion, and deepened our commitment to Dr. King’s vision of the Beloved Community as Service Heroes. Each year forward, our Ambassadors will carry their spirit of service and honor their devotion to humanity as they unite, act, lead.

CLASS OF 2022 Paul Andrews

Mum Bett Freeman

Deb Re

Sergeant James Ayube II

Dr. Atul Gawande

Alex Richman

Molly Baldwin

Secretary Deb Haaland

Jasmine Sanders

Claudette Colvin

Alexandra Huynh

Jordan Simpson

Senator Julian Cyr

Opal Lee

Matthew Slater

Charlie Davies

Juana Matias

Gladys Vega

Ashley De Pina Nunes

Makeeba McCreary

Chairman Brian Weeden

Heidi Dugal

Ellice Patterson

Mayor Michelle Wu

Ché Anderson

Jay Kim

Mamatha Thumati

Xiye Bastida

Beverly Leon

Cameron Van Fossen

Todd Bucey

Robery Lewis, Jr.

Rep. Andy Vargas

Tacko Fall

Ashton Mota

Cleo Wade

Jim Gallagher

Pauline Murnin

Dr. Rochelle Walensky

Chief Warrant Officer 2 Marwan S. Ghabour

Dr. Jim O’Connell

Jazmine Wildcat

CLASS OF 2021

Bob Giannino

Katie Pakenham

CLASS OF 2020 Deborah Silva & Surya Adeleye

Dave Hoffman

Allyce Najimy

Kara Bobroff

Lisa Hughes

Representative Tram Nguyen

Bill Brett

Heidi Johnson

Natanja Craig Oquendo

Geoffrey Canada

Michael Lawler

Hilda Ramirez

Bithiah Carter

Devin & Jason McCourty

Senior Airman Deanna Richards

Josh Chalmers

Eva Millona

Mark Shriver

Jon Goose

Cara Murtagh

Meredith & Billy Starr

30 | PROJECT 351

CLASS OF 2019 Lance Corporal Noah Avila, USMC

Betty Francisco

Mary Lou O’Connell

Paul Berkeley

Corey Griffin

Representative Smitty Pignatelli

President George H.W. Bush

Police Comissioner William Gross

Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley

Chuck Campion

Patrice Keegan

Rescue

Chris Myers & Joanne Chang

Eunice Kennedy Shriver

Navyn Salem

Christie Coombs

Waleska Lugo-DeJesús

Coretta Scott King

Mary Cringan

Ted Marquis

Lynne & Gary Smith

Maria Dominguez Gray

Jared Monti

Lisa & Stephen Spaloss

Noor Al-Saad

Representative Hannah Kane

Bill Russell

First Lady Lauren Baker

Myra Kraft

Billy Shore

Nurys Camargo

Executive Protection Unit, Massachusetts State Police

David Simas

CLASS OF 2018

Leila & Mike Chambers Emily Cherniack Yolanda Coentro Captain Sara Cullen, U.S. Army

Diane Nealon Sharon Parliment Sue & Bernie Pucker

James Simmons Marquis Taylor Annika Morgan & Josh Trautwein

CLASS OF 2017 Ron Adams

Juan Duran

Susan B. Anthony

Danroy “DJ” Henry

Rachael Klehm Michael Brown & Alan Khazei

Lauren Astley

Pat Johnson

Anthony Shriver

Ron Burton, Sr.

Dr. Paula Johnson

Gregg Croteau

Estrellita Karsh

Capt. Christopher Sullivan, U.S. Army

Abbey D’Agnostino

President John F. Kennedy

Darlene White-Dottin

CLASS OF 2016 Vanessa Calderón-Rosado

Dawnn Jaffier

Charlie Rose

Firefighter Gregory Cinelli

Moira Landry

Tom Scott

Cherylann & Len Gengel

Cindy McGinty

Donna Spigarolo

Captain Jennifer Harris, U.S. Marine Corps

Marisol O’Brien

Councilor Michelle Wu

Kay & Peter Berron

Cindy McGinty

Beverly Morgan Welch

Senator Robert F. Kennedy

Mayor Tom Menino

CLASS OF 2015

CLASS OF 2014 Carlos Arredondo

Brittany & Robbie Bergquist

Frederick Douglass 2023 13TH ANNUAL LAUNCH DAY | 31

Alumni Leadership Council: Tenth Anniversary The Alumni Leadership Council is a tribute to the contributions of the 4,492 leaders who have worn the Ambassador navy tee since 2011.

Over the last ten years since the founding of the ALC, more than 300 leaders have answered the call to wear the burnt orange Alumni Leadership Council shirt. We are grateful to each for dedicating their high school years to inspire and lead the next generation of Ambassadors.

The ALC has grown and adapted throughout the past decade to meet the needs of a growing movement of Ambassadors and Alumni. The ALC past and present reflects Project 351’s commitment to inspire and enable Alumni leadership through high school and beyond.

With special love and gratitude to the eleven founding ALC members: Tara Balan, Caitlin Burnett, Mark Czeisler, Kezia Duarte, Josh Florence, Meredith Forcier, Moria Landry, Michael Lawler, Andrea Nevins, Jenna Pedrantri, & Tessa Senders.

Ben Abbott • Sonia Abdel-Fattah • Denelis Acosta • Surya Adeleye • Enyonam Adoboe • Warda Ahm • Noah Avila • Tara Balan • Azavia Barsky-Elnour • Silvia Bastek • Emily Begley • Kendra Bento Bobrowski • Emelia Brennan • Kelly Broder • Aly Broussard • Elizabeth Brown • Noah Brown • Ch Cameron • Carter Cantafio • Gretchen Carr • Molly Castle • Tyler Chidsey • Elizabeth Chiffer Crosby • Emily Cuff • Samantha Curtin • Mark Czeisler • Catherine Daly • Faleehah Dam • Devon Da Duarte • Juan Duran • Alexis Earp • Willem Edwards • Annalise Englert • Aurora Estabrook • Yvet Fields • Brooke Fitzgerald • Josh Florence • Olivia Fone • Olivia Foo • Francesca Forcellati • M Gareri • Evan Gendreau • Tara Geoghan • Sophia Gibbs • Pranav Govindarajan • JP Grant • Nathan G • Maeve Hagberg • Gabriela Hamburger Medailleu • Neely Harrington • Daniel Heine • Kate Her Hunt • Charlie Hynes • Kevin Irungu • Kevin James • Anne Jean • Elaine Jones • Shelby Jones • Ts Kent • Laila Kibodya • Julia Kimball • Ariana Klekotka • Katie Koch • Victoria Kot • Tess Lambert Lee • KeeSeok Lee • Lucas Lee • Melanie Lefkowitz • Jonpierre Levesque • Lotem Loeb • Erin Loga Maloney • Katie Mangus • Charley Marsland • Michael Martinez • Leanna Matczak • Annika McCann • Marcus McNeill • Kevin McShane • Jack Meilleur • Max Meilleur • Sydney Mercadante • Whitney • Reeghan Morawiec • Kathleen Morris • Siobhan Morris • Julianne Morse • Madeline Moynihan • Minhthu Nguyen • Alexa Nogler • Sean O’Malley • Isabelle Oppenheim • Maeve Padien • Hōkūlani Johanna Pellegrino • Lillian Perriello • Jade Perry • Honor Petrie • Ryan Pfifferling • Elizabe • Menaja Raja • Liam Randall • Sreenidhi Ravipati • Lily Raymond • Megan Raymond • Autumn Ray • Skyla Rimple • Molly Rioux • Emmy Roberts • Noah Roberts • Jemima Robins • Ana Rodrigues • Da • Rachel Saball • Connor Schoen • Lauren Scott • Tessa Senders • Serena Serhan • Yesha Shah • A • Thomas Singleton • Sarah Smialek • Allison Smith • Courtney Smith • Susannah Snell • Margo Swible Martinez • Emma Szalewicz • Mike Tansey • Anika Teckchandani • Dominique Thomas • Ja • Maya van Overbeeke-Costello • Alexandra Vella • Yvonne Vu • Lily Waguespack • Madison Walsh Malina Woodbury • Cameron Woods • Jack Woods • Courtney Woodward • Timothy Woodward • Ajmai 32 | PROJECT 351

Our Founding ALC, Reunion 2013

a Ahmed • Noor Al-Saad • Aimee Alston • Abena Ashiagbor • Samantha Asprelli • Sreenidhi Atluri ento • Emily Bergeron • Catherine Bezio • Owen Bingham • Emily Blagg • Lilianna Blank • Jenna n • Christian Buonopane • Jack Burgess • Megan Burke • Caitlin Burnett • Jill Calistra • Scotty ffer • Kelsey Chiu • Cole Clericuzio • Isabelle Cole • Caitlin Collier • Haley Correia • Justin on Das • Ashley De Pina Nunes • Alex DiBlasi • Hyunwoo Do • James Donohue • Haley Donovan • Kezia Yvette Estevez • Tatum Evans • Anna Fernandez • Lillianna Feronti • Lauren Fetten • Katherine i • Meredith Forcier • George Fox • Megan Frisella • Lily Fullford • Caroline Gallagher • Emily han Grant • Michael Grega • Soleei Guasp • Chakri Gudimella • Sophia Gustafson • Jeremy Guyette e Herlihy • Gabrielle Heroux • Joseph Holihan • Elizabeth Hopkinson • Emily Huang • Abigail s • Tshilobo Kadima • Preston Karp • Francoise Kayamba • Lorelei Kellum • Autumn Kelly • Molly mbert • Moira Landry • Kieler Langemo • Chandra Lavery • Michael Lawler • Teaghan LeBlanc • Jae Logan • Riley Londraville • Kelsey Lowthers • Jacob Lustig • Grace Makuc • Nadia Makuc • Bryce cCanne • Abigail McGonigle • Lauren McLaughlin • Maggie McLeod • Abigail McLucas • AJ McLucas tney Meritus • Avery Michalak • Griffin Michalak • Jaya Mills • Brooke Milosh • Shannon Moore an • Sam Mroz • Eileen Mullen • Anthony Nardelli • Julia Natale • Aidan Nelson • Andrea Nevins • ani Panerio-Langer • Jessie Paradis Stern • Cambria Parrott • Rebecca Pavao • Jenna Pedranti • zabeth Phan • Jaryd Plante • Sophie Poissant • Opal Polynice • Natasha Poritzky • Bobby Portway n Rayray • Jack Regan • Nora Reilly • Jacob Reinach • Olivia Ren • Madelyn Rich • Victoria Rich s • Dalice Rodriguez Viera • Sophia Roselli • Brooke Rosenshine • Sierra Russell • Emma Rutan h • Amari Sharma • Hope Shue • Michael Shyjan • Deborah Silva • Lile Simmons • Jordan Simpson argot Sonia • Pranathi Srirangam • Jordan Stanley • Jonathan Stern • Molly Stockton • Alyssa • Jayden Thomas • Madison Tinker • Hannah Tirrell • Doan Tran • Janhvi Trehan • Josie Tucker Walsh • Eliza Warner • Whitney Washington • Sanaai Watson • Sasha Wilkinson • Crystal Wojcik • jmain Zahid • Sarah Zanger • Wunnyuriti Ziblim • Yu Shang Zou 2023 13TH ANNUAL LAUNCH DAY | 33

ALUMNI LEADERSHIP COUNCIL The Alumni Leadership Council (ALC) elevates diverse young leaders who represent Project 351’s core values and invests in their skills and potential as community builders. Alumni engagement and a series of enriching Leadership Summits strengthen participants’ courage, confidence, and commitment to inclusion, civic responsibility, and social justice. The ALC is a tribute to the contributions of the 4,492 leaders who have served as Ambassadors since 2011.

The vision for the ALC is informed by the priorities and aspirations of our high school Alumni. Members are selected, through competitive statewide application, for exemplifying Project 351 values, the highest standards of service, and individual initiative to engage peers to make a difference in their community.

This diverse team leads and informs all aspects of our mission. Members advise strategy and program development, lead cornerstone programming, and serve as role models and mentors for Ambassadors. There are four leadership platforms within the ALC—each designated for a unique responsibility and reflective of distinct skills and experience.

Senior Legacy Fellows: Lead capacity-building projects in support of greater organizational, program, and service excellence Regional Leaders (RL): Build Project 351’s capacity, visibility, and unity in their region by stewarding a community of Alumni, Ambassadors, and educators to engage in our mission Alumni Mentoring Corps (AMC): Lead and mentor a Service Hero team of 8 to 10 Ambassadors throughout their 12–month leadership journey. AMC members model and strengthen Project 351 values and vision, inspire and lead signature service, and build team pride and unity

34 | PROJECT 351

SENIOR LEGACY FELLOWS Aimee Alston, Caitlin Collier, Olivia Foo, Riley Londraville, Max Meilleur, Noah Roberts, Amari Sharma, Courtney Smith, Hannah Tirrell

REGIONAL LEADERS Ben Abbott, Lily Blank, Jenna Bobrowski, Kelly Broder, Jill Calistra, Caitlin Collier, Clara Donovan, Olivia Foo, Pranav Govindarajan, Neely Harrington, Julia Kimball, Estella LeBlanc, Callie Loeffel, Leanna Matczak, Annika McCanne, Sydney Mercadante, Reeghan Morawiec, Alexa Nogler, Hokulani Panerio-Langer, Anya Patel, Emmy Roberts, Lauren Scott, Allison Smith, Courtney Smith, Josie Tucker, Xan Vella, Wunnyuriti Ziblim

ALUMNI MENTORING CORPS (AMC) Benjamin Abbott, Pranav Abburi, Reilly Bergin, Julia Caron, Bryce Cioffi, Isabel Coviello, Maddie Cronin, Ekaavli Daga, Faleehah Dam, Reaghan Donovan, Robyn Douglas, Jack Favata Jasmine Findlen, Francesca Forcellati, Tara Geoghan, Jocelyn Graham, Maeve Hagberg, Kate Heppner, Charlotte Hernandez, Sava Kassev, James Keefe, Emma Keeley, Lorelei Kellum, Jordan Krawczyk, Yasmine Laabadla, Calvin Lewis, Maeve Lucey, Anna Noroian, Caitlin O’Donnell, Maeve Padien, Meera Parekh, Anya Patel, Abigail Rainsford, Jack Regan, Victoria Rich, Lile Simmons, Anika Teckchandani, Kayla Vallecillo, Meredith Wu, Palak Yadav

2023 13TH ANNUAL LAUNCH DAY | 35

The PLAYBOOK INITIATIVE in partnership with The Boston Celtics

The Playbook Initiative is the Celtics signature anti-bias, anti-discrimination program. In 2019, the Celtics and Project 351 teamed up to extend the reach and impact of this important leadership model.

Annually, a team of Project 351 Alumni are selected for accelerated training with Celtics and 351 staff. Trainers build skills of facilitation and communication; gain knowledge of issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion; and strengthen their commitment to strong, just, and united communities.

Each February, as a cornerstone of SLA, Trainers lead and inspire Ambassadors through immersive Playbook Workshops. Participants discuss real-life social scenarios reflecting on forms of bias and discrimination with courage and candor. Trainers and Ambassadors examine the motivation and impact of the scenarios; and develop positive interventions to utilize as upstanders and bridge builders. Trainers continue their workshops at hometown middle schools, engaging more than 1,000 students.

Fortified by the lesson of Playbook and the example of the Celtics, Ambassadors will strengthen their commitment to Dr. King’s vision of the Beloved Community and their abilities as a catalyst for unity and positive change.

We offer deepest gratitude to the Boston Celtics for their faith in you, belief in our mission, and the privilege of partnership toward greater unity, compassion, and inclusion.

2023 PLAYBOOK TRAINERS Lilianna Blank (North Attleboro), Brooke Boucher (Fairhaven), Molly Bronner (Framingham), Gabriela Hamburger Medailleu (Holden), Neely Harrington (Salem), Lucas Lee (Carlisle), Sammy Levenson (Ashland), Carolina Loeffel (Scituate), Fabyana Maitre (Woburn), Paige Martino (Lynnfield), Ben Nguyen (Norwell), Hōkūlani Panerio-Langer (Milton), Victoria Rich (Worcester), Noah Roberts (Hanson), Brooke Rosenshine (Westborough), Amari Sharma (Needham), Jayden Taylor (Acushnet), Hannah Tirrell (Abington), Palak Yadav (Medway)

36 | PROJECT 351

“The best leaders in the world serve others.”

Brad Stevens President of Basketball Operations Boston Celtics

2023 13TH ANNUAL LAUNCH DAY | 37

THE COMMONWEALTH CIRCLE Project 351 is honored to announce The Commonwealth Circle, an annual major gift program that provides vital resources to support the leadership journey of our Ambassadors and our year-long programming of community service, leadership development and civic engagement.

We deeply appreciate the leadership and generosity of our Honorary Co-Chairs and Commonwealth Circle members.

Honorary Co-Chairs Governor Charlie Baker and Lauren Baker Governor Deval Patrick and Diane Patrick Platinum Level - $100,000 and above Patty and Paul Gannon Jeannie and Jonathan Lavine Gold Level - $50,000 and above Pamela Lederer and Michael Carmen Bronze Level - $10,000 and above Anonymous Kristen and Jim Atwood Joe Casey Dona and Eliza Cassella Mary Cringan Richard Flaherty Tracy Campion and Buddy Greene Geri and Mark Herlihy Jennifer Bardsley and Christopher Keefe Tricia and Tom O’Brien Diane and Deval Patrick Sue and Bernie Pucker Bhuvana Palaniappan and Govind Rangasamy Charlie Rose Membership as of January 6, 2023. All donors who make a three-year commitment to The Commonwealth Circle

by December 31, 2023 will be designated as Founding Members. For more information on joining The Commonwealth Circle, please contact Carolyn Casey at carolyn@project351.org.

38 | PROJECT 351

“I see hope in my generation.”

Madelyn Moreau, Ambassador, Monson

A Note of Gratitude Project 351 is a nonprofit organization dedicated to building a movement of youth service that transforms communities, elevates kindness, and advances opportunity by investing in the courage, compassion, and unlimited capabilities of eighth grade unsung heroes and aspiring change-makers. We are grateful for the commitment of an inspiring community of private sector partners and families who engage fully in our mission through corporate volunteerism, strategic support, and generous investment.

WITH GRATITUDE FOR THEIR GENEROUS INVESTMENT & BELIEF

strategic Partners

2023 13TH ANNUAL LAUNCH DAY | 39

We Celebrate & Appreciate Our BELOVED Community We are deeply appreciative of the statewide community of educators, volunteers, and partners, whose belief in the potential of every young person inspires our greatest efforts.

BUS CAPTAINS & CHAPERONES

Skyla Rimple, Rachel Saball, Tessa Senders,

Judy Bennett, Kendra Bento, Todd Bucey, Katie

Deborah Silva, Margot Sonia, Jessica Stanley,

Carley, Aimee Casale-McCarthy, Denise Chesbro,

Emma Szalewicz, Doan Tran

Kari Cioffi, Anne Corron, Kathy Couch, Mary Cringan, Carolyn Curtis, Melinda Dennis, Mary DeSousa, Jeff Duffany, Marcy Dugas, Deborah Gigante, Ronnie Goldstein, Betty Hartford, Ivar Henningson, Cheri Hoyle, Becky LaRoche, Rashaun Martin, Maria McGuinness, Nicholas Merritt, Peter Mili, Chitra Mills, Julie Morris, Carolyn Mulhern,

LAUNCH DAY VOLUNTEER TEAM Tracy Allen, Seth Berman, Jennifer Bingham, Eliza Casella, Andrea Courtois, Katie Germany, Andrea Kelly, Alex Richardson, Theresa Shanahan, Gary Smith, Lynne Smith, Donna Spigarolo, Elliott Spigarolo, Lisa Ulrich

Michael Neagle, Sharon Nist, Arlene Parella, Dan

PROJECT 351 ADVISORY BOARD

Phelan, Timothy Rougeau, Brett Senders, Tessa

Alex Richman, Chair; Maureen Alphonse-Charles,

Senders, Kathy Sheehan, Deborah Silva, Adam

Noor Al-Saad, Carolyn Casey, Josh Florence,

Snodgrass, Jessica Stanley, Hannah Sullivan,

Michele Gerroir, Thaddeus Miles, Tom O’Brien,

William Tranter

Denise Richard, Charlie Rose, Chair Emeritus,

LAUNCH DAY LEADERSHIP TEAM Paul Berkley, Scotty Cameron, Sam Carson, Josh Florence, Gina Galarza, Lee Ann Gilligan, Autumn Kelly, Tim Kelly, Andrew Morris, Ashleigh Morris, Katie Pakenham, Emma Szalewicz, Danielle West

ALUMNI VOLUNTEERS Warda Ahmed, Emily Begley, Megan Burke, Scotty Cameron, Isabelle Cole, Justin Crosby, Mark Czeisler, Alexis Earp, Anna Fernandez, Lily Fullford, Soleei Guasp, Elizabeth Inger, Autumn Kelly, Marcus McNeill, Griffin Michalak, Kathleen Morris, Rebecca Pavao, Cole Perry, Bobby Portway,

40 | PROJECT 351

Nancy Routh, Matt Segneri

DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE Tom O’Brien, Chair; Max Campion, Joe Casey, Kanna Kunchala, Jennifer White

AMBASSADOR SELECTION OUTREACH TEAM Todd Bucey, Kelly Campbell, Katie Carley, Elizabeth Chiffer, Joan Chiffer, Mary Cringan, Cherylann Gengel, Ruth Gilbert-Whitner, Laura Keith, Rashaun Martin, Jessica Stanley, Emma Szalewicz, Michael Whitner

LOVE & GRATITUDE An abundance of 35ONELove to Charlie Rose, our beloved Board Chair, Honorary Dean & spoken word laureate. After 34 years of service with City Year, Charlie and his wife Carol begin a year sabbatical to travel across the country.

We wish them a journey of exploration, inspiration, and wonder. We extend our heartfelt gratitude for 13 years of visionary and impassioned stewardship of our youth-led movement for change. And, we look forward to many more years of movement making with Charlie. Project 351 would not exist but for Charlie.

Ubuntu, we are because you are. With greatest love, your 35ONE family.

VERY SPECIAL THANKS TO

photography team: Jennifer Cogswell, Cogswell

Our extraordinary Service Heroes and their

Images; Michael Casey, CaseyPhotography.net;

loving families. Jim Gallaher, Annie Duong,

Dan Stevens and Dave Ells, In the Car Media; and

Maggie Lytle, Tom Crohan of John Hancock;

Haley Lunny and Hannah Osborn for their support

Denise, Bill, Henry, and Jane Richard and the

with Launch Day preparations.

Martin Richard Foundation; Dave Hoffman, Kash Cannon, and Tome Barros of the Boston Celtics; Lisa Hughes, Larry Lawson, Sean Barnacourt, Andrea Courtois of WBZ; Lisa Menino and the team at the City of Boston; Tom Scott, Erica Hedrick, Dr. Mary Bourque, Dr. Christine McGrath of the Massachusetts Association of School Superintendents; Jon Goose and his team at Color Copy Center Boston; Steve Kerrigan, President & Chief Executive Officer, Edward M. Kennedy Community Health Center; Joe Foley, Margaret Dooley of College Hype; Bruce Barrows and the

HEARTFELT GRATITUDE FOR the community of designers and artists that contributed to this book: Danielle West, Anita Rundles, and J. Sherman Studio. The program book was written by Carolyn Casey and produced by Danielle West.

PROJECT 351 is powered by the idealism of this extraordinary Beloved Community in partnership with a very grateful 351 team: Oyin Aderoba, Michaela Campbell, Carolyn Casey, Cindy Laba, and Michael Lawler.

Professional Bus Drivers of LocalMotion; Jim

GREAT LOVE AND APPRECIATION to the

Cardaropoli, Joanne Okraska and the Professional

Aderoba, Campbell, Casey, Laba, and Lawler

Bus Drivers of King Gray Bus Lines; Susan Guay,

families who inspire the vision and make the

Alisha Candela and the team at Atent for Rent;

journey so joyful. In loving memory of Maryjane

Dan Kidwell and the team at Terry Hanley Audio

“Mimi” Casey, with enduring gratitude for her

Services; Gail Sarni and the team at Gourmet

goodness and grace.

Caterers; Matt Wilder, Wilder Strategies; and our

2023 13TH ANNUAL LAUNCH DAY | 41

NOTEs

NOTEs

NOTEs

Leaders don’t wait for change In fact, the next generation is already here, making positive change within their communities. We’re proud to support Project 351 in empowering this new class of leaders.