Executive Leadership

Esther Alix
Chief Development Officer
ealix@unionsettlement.org

Esther Alix brings more than 20 years of leadership in philanthropy, development strategy, and nonprofit growth. Throughout her accomplished career, she has designed and executed successful fundraising campaigns, cultivated enduring donor relationships, and built sustainable revenue streams for organizations dedicated to social justice, education, and community empowerment.

A strategist who combines data-driven insights with authentic storytelling, Esther has a proven ability to mobilize resources and inspire investment in transformative causes. She has consistently guided organizations to expand their impact by aligning mission-driven narratives with measurable outcomes, ensuring long-term growth and stability.

As Chief Development Officer at Union Settlement, Esther leads efforts to scale the organization’s impact, diversify its funding sources, and deepen engagement with stakeholders. Her commitment is to ensure that every dollar raised strengthens Union Settlement’s mission, and sustains its role as a beacon of opportunity for the East Harlem community.

Doreen Bermudez
Chief Program Officer and Executive Director of Early Childhood
dbermudez@unionsettlement.org

Doreen Bermudez serves as the Chief Program Officer and Executive Director of Early Childhood at Union Settlement. A passionate and results-driven leader, Bermudez is known for fostering safe, inclusive, and responsive program environments.

Her work is grounded in a strong foundation of community organizing, with a particular focus on building sustainable infrastructure and implementing equitable policies that effectively reach and support diverse populations.

In her current role, Bermudez oversees Early Childhood Education and is expanding her portfolio to include Youth Development Opportunity. Her leadership reflects a strategic vision that integrates program quality, access, and community impact.

Doreen previously worked at Union Settlement from 2013 to 2015, where she served as Director of Adult Day Services in the Aging and Health Wellness Services department.She brings extensive experience from the New York City Commission on Human Rights, where she served as Executive Director of Programs, leading efforts to advance equity and enforce human rights protections across the city. Prior to that, Bermudez spent over a decade (2005–2017) at SAGE (Services and Advocacy for GLBT Elders), where she contributed to advocacy, program development, and direct services for LGBTQ+ older adults. She is also a founding staff member of the historic National Resource Center on LGBT Aging, where she helped build a national platform to improve services and supports for LGBTQ+ older adults.

Outside of her professional work, Bermudez is a Pilates student and enjoys spending time with her sons and dogs, Rocco and Amelia.

Luz Carty
Chief Strategy Officer
lcarty@unionsettlement.org

Luz joined Union Settlement in February 2020. With almost a decade of work with NYC seniors, Luz is excited to bring her knowledge and experience back to Union Settlement as Executive Director of Aging Health and Wellness Services. After working at Union Settlement from 2012-2017 in various capacities, including Senior Services Coordinator, Senior Center Manager, and Assistant Deputy Director, Luz joined the NYC Department for the Aging. From 2017-2020 she worked as a Program Officer, getting a handle on the issues and solutions that go into the business of running large groupings of senior centers. Luz holds a Bachelor’s in Business Administration from SUNY Albany and a Master of Social Work from Hunter College.

Tanisha Jackson
Chief Operating Officer
tjackson@unionsettlement.org

Tanisha Jackson is the Chief Operating Officer (COO) at Union Settlement, bringing over a decade of experience leading operations. A seasoned leader in organizational strategy and operational excellence, Tanisha oversees day-to-day operation functions to ensure Union Settlement delivers impactful services to the East Harlem community. Prior to joining Union Settlement, Tanisha has held executive roles across nonprofit, private, city, and state sectors. She has led multiple departments—including Facilities, Information Technology, Transportation, Communication, Parks & Recreation, Community Affairs and Youth Services—to drive organizational efficiency and align operations with strategic goals. Her leadership was instrumental in streamlining business processes, optimizing resource management, and implementing innovative systems to enhance organizational effectiveness. Outside of work, Tanisha remains passionate about creating equitable systems that promote opportunity, wellness, and sustainable growth for individuals and communities.

Oneida Perez
Chief People & Culture Officer
operez@unionsettlement.org

Oneida Perez is driven by the butterfly effect – the notion that one gesture, one kindness, one effort can change destinies, both our own and those of the lives we touch. A proud product of East Harlem (aka El Barrio), she is passionate about community development and advocacy, strengthening human connections, and empowering others towards greater self-efficacy. She brings over 20 years of experience in organizational development, labor relations, and workforce management. Her portfolio includes roles with Phipps Community Development, the YMCA of Greater New York, The Boys’ Club, the United Neighborhood Houses network, and collaborations with multi-state universities. Oneida holds a Master’s in Organizational Management, a Bachelor’s in Gender Studies, and dual Human Resources certifications as a Senior Certified Professional with SHRM and HRCI.

Dr. Stacie Woodland, DSW, LCSW-R
Chief Compliance and Clinical Services Officer
swoodland@unionsettlement.org

Dr. Stacie Woodland joined Union Settlement in December 2017. She comes to Union Settlement with almost two decades of experience working in areas around mental health, homelessness, HIV care, women’s health, and adolescent issues. She has expertise in trauma-informed care specifically around developmental trauma, complex trauma, eating disorders, and complicated grief. Dr. Woodland’s research interests are in eating disorders and childhood neglect. She has published several articles around eating disorders, affect dysregulation, weight and racialized biases, atypical anorexia, and the under-assessment of eating disorders in underserved communities. She conducted a study around eating disorders that suggests that there may be under-assessment of eating disorders across all racial groups. Dr. Woodland was invited by OMH to present her findings to mental health clinics throughout New York State. She believes mental health treatment and interventions are lifesaving, but only if the seriousness and totality of the client’s struggles are recognized and addressed appropriately. Dr. Woodland received her bachelor’s degree in dance and psychology from Hampshire College, her Master’s Degree in Social Work from NYU, and her Doctorate in Social Work from Tulane University.

Programmatic Executive Leadership

Michelle Cruz
Chief Program and Community Impact Officers
Co-Chair – East Harlem Community Alliance (EHCA)
mcruz@unionsettlement.org

Programmatic/Operational Executive Directors

Sean Wynter
Executive Director, Youth Development & Opportunity (YDO)
swynter@unionsettlement.org

Sean Wynter is a passionate advocate for youth empowerment and community development, currently serving as the Executive Director of Youth Development and Opportunity. With over 18 years of experience in Youth Development and the nonprofit sector, he has dedicated his career to creating pathways for young people to thrive.

Beginning his journey in grassroots organizations, Sean quickly realized the transformative power of education and mentorship. Over the years, he has held various leadership roles, driving innovative programs that address the unique challenges faced by underserved youth. His commitment to collaboration has fostered strong partnerships with local schools, businesses, and community leaders, amplifying the impact of initiatives focused on skill development, leadership training, and access to resources.

Under his leadership, Youth Development and Opportunity has expanded its reach, serving thousands of young individuals annually. Sean an alum of Hofstra University believes in the power of education and the potential of every young person and works tirelessly to ensure they have the tools, support, and opportunities needed to succeed.

Programmatic

Jocelyn Caceres
Director, Family Enrichment Center (FEC)
jcaceres@unionsettlement.org

Jocelyn joined Union Settlement in August 2022. She is the new director of Manhattan’s first Family Enrichment Center (FEC), Jocelyn is an East Harlem/South Bronx native. A Master’s Leveled Social Worker who has served the last 15 years working with children and families, including a supervisor role in foster care. She has worked with The New York City Department of Homeless Services and a Bronx-based FEC. It is no secret that Jocelyn is a strong, fierce, compassionate leader who thrives being a source of support for others. Not only does she see but also understands the value of assisting people in overcoming challenges and advocating for those in need. Jocelyn holds a B.S. in Psychology and a Masters in Social Work. Jocelyn understands the Family Enrichment Center model and her mission is to ensure the needs of the East Harlem community are met. She is a coach who is powerful in guiding the co-design process to create something so impactful that is needed and relevant to East Harlem

Wilmarie Cordero
Director of Family Child Care Network
wcordero@unionsettlement.org

With over 15 years of experience in education, and more than half in early childhood, Wilmarie Cordero brings a strong commitment to building systems that support children, families, and educators.

A proud product of El Barrio (East Harlem), Wilmarie’s work is deeply rooted in her lived experience and dedication to community. She is passionate about advancing equity, access, and high-quality educational opportunities for all families, and approaches her work through a lens of social justice and inclusion.

Wilmarie holds a Bachelor of Science in Human Development from SUNY Empire State College and a Master of Public Administration from CUNY John Jay College. As both an educator and a parent, she values the transformative impact of early childhood education and public school systems, and is committed to strengthening programs that serve and uplift her community.

Suley Cruz
Senior Director of Aging, Health, & Wellness Services
scruz@unionsettlement.org

Suley Cruz began her career in Aging in 2012 as Volunteer Coordinator at Union Settlement, where she managed volunteers across four centers and multiple programs, strengthening outreach and engagement efforts for older adults. She went on to manage SAGE Center Harlem and SAGE Harlem NORC, part of the nation’s largest organization serving LGBT older adults, ensuring inclusive, welcoming spaces for diverse communities. Suley returned to Union Settlement in 2022, bringing nearly a decade of experience working with Older Adults previously serving as Deputy Director for the Aging, Health and Wellness Department . She is committed to advancing culturally competent, inclusive services for all older adults. Cruz holds a Bachelor’s in Psychology from Hunter College and a Master’s in Health Administration with a concentration in Gerontology from University of Phoenix.

Monica Rene
Director, NYC Benefits Program
mrene@unionsettlement.org

Monica joined Union Settlement in 2019 as a Case Manager Supervisor with Youth Services. She also served as the HUB Regional Director prior to her leadership role with the recently launched NYC Benefits Program. Raised in Brooklyn and the Bronx, Monica is passionate about helping youth and families across NYC. She has over 20 years of experience serving NYC communities through nonprofit organizations, most recently at the South Bronx Overall Economic Development Corp. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from Lehman College as well as Case Management and Family Development credentials from Hostos Community College and Cornell University respectively.

Theresa Rivera
Senior Director of Early Childhood Education
trivera@unionsettlement.org

Theresa Rivera brings over 14 years of experience in early childhood education, with a deep commitment to high-quality learning, advocacy, and educational equity. She holds a Master of Science in Early Childhood Education and a New York State teaching license, grounding her practice in both strong academic preparation and classroom expertise.

Theresa joined the organization in 2021 as a preschool teacher and advanced to Center Director and now serves as Senior Director of Early Childhood Education. Her experience across these roles gives her a comprehensive understanding of early childhood systems—from classroom instruction to program leadership and strategic development.

In addition to her professional work, Theresa actively engages with advocacy groups focused on community-based programs and equal rights, reinforcing her belief that access to high-quality early education is essential to long-term equity and opportunity. She is passionate about creating inclusive, supportive environments where children, families, and educators can thrive.

Shawn Smith
Director, East Harlem Community Partnership
ssmith@unionsettlement.org

Shawn Smith is known as a progressive thinker. He maintains a flair for multi-tasking and fostering positive relations with and between community stakeholders. A BMCC and City College Alum, his love of learning and background in education, advocacy, and as a published musician, has afforded him a plethora of opportunities in relationship building. His approach to service and empowerment is multi-generational in scope and practice and enhances his ability as “a connector”. Shawn has served on Community Board 11, the SCAN-HARBOR Parent Advisory Board, the Villa Hermosa Tenant Union (Vice President), as BCNY’s Youth Director (East Harlem), a High School Music Teacher, and last but not least (and actually first), a Parent Volunteer with several institutions throughout the New York City area. Shawn is married with 3 kid.  His love of family and his passion and conviction for doing this work is the catalyst for his manta, “get involved”, and he lives this out in real-time.

Allison Thomas
Interim Director, Adult Education
athomas@unionsettlement.org

Allison Thomas joined Union Settlement in 2021 as a Digital Literacy Instructor in the Adult Education department. Since then, she has held the roles of Job Developer/Career Counselor and Deputy Director. Allison has not only taught in the program, but provided curriculum development for multiple classes, and spearheaded both the annual Health and Wellness Fair and the Job Fair.

With over 15 years’ experience in education, Allison has taught a variety of subjects from elementary to adult levels including, English Language Arts, ESOL, college access, career skill building, and computer/digital literacy. She has worked in NYC public and charter schools, as well as for non-profits like iMentor and International Rescue Committee.

Allison holds a BA in English Education, a MA in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL), and a CELTA certification. She is honored to take over the role of Director of Adult Education in order to continue supporting adults interested in returning to school and choosing new career paths in East Harlem and beyond.