Our Team
Administrative Team
Executive Director
Robert has over 17 years of nonprofit experience including serving in leadership roles with Volunteers of America, the American Heart Association, and JDRF. He joined Manna Project International to continue his focus on community health, education and economic empowerment. Robert has also raised funds in support of seniors, the fight against heart disease, cancer and type 1 diabetes. He launched Teens Run Westchester, a mentoring organization that uses running to inspire young people to be healthy, goal oriented leaders in their community. Robert is also a guitarist, occasional singer, runner, cyclist and soon to be triathlete. He lives in Southwest Florida and enjoys spending time with his wife, daughter and two dogs.
Recruitment Coordinator
Taylor began her journey with Manna Project as an intern back in 2009, where she fell in love with the Ecuadorian community in which Manna lived and worked. Before receiving an MA in International Relations from the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs in New York and an Masters in Public Policy from Hertie School of Governance in Germany, Taylor has worked for Manna in a variety of roles at each of the project sites. Throughout her tenure in development, she has conducted a feasibility study to create a microlending institution from scratch, created a global health curriculum on HIV/AIDs to train community health educators in rural Africa, and engaged in qualitative field research in Brazil to investigate the drug trafficking patterns at the tri-border area between Paraguay and Argentina by interviewing individuals along the supply-chain. She lives in Amsterdam, the Netherlands with her Dutch boyfriend and their basil plant, Boris. Since her days as a Program Director, she has been spreading the mission of Manna Project to individuals interested in living an impactful life and learning what it truly means for communities to serve communities.
Ecuador Team
Ecuador Country Director
Carolyn's love of Ecuador began when she first arrived in 2011. After working with an isolated Kichwa community for six months, Carolyn rejoined society to join a local nonprofit organization, where she led volunteers and interns on their cultural exchange and development journeys. Carolyn brings passion and experience to MPI Ecuador through a diverse background in international development and small business operations. Since graduating from Mount Holyoke College with a BA in Film Studies and Spanish, Carolyn has taught English, led high-school study abroad trips, managed a nonprofit organization, worked as a translator and interpreter, and even started and operated her own restaurant in Tena, Ecuador! She has lived in Indiana, Massachusetts, Florida, Spain, Peru, Chile, and Ecuador. Her hobbies include swimming in rivers, riding horses, hiking in the jungle (or the Andes!), and meeting new people and cultures.
Senior Program Director
Hunter grew up in Chapel Hill, North Carolina and graduated in May of 2016 from Wake Forest University with a Bachelor's of Science in Health and Exercise Science and Anthropology. After previous trips to Central and South America, including three months working for a nonprofit in Tena, Ecuador, Hunter knew she wanted to return to Ecuador to learn more about the culture and values of the region. She then decided after her year working for Manna Project to extend her time within the community in order to further develop relationships within the community and support the Ecuador site with administrative and program development. Her hobbies include working with other nonprofit organizations on strategic planning, photography, and running. After her second year with Manna Project, Hunter will return to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill to pursue a degree in Public Health with a focus on Global Behavioral Health.
Community Advisor
Yeimmy serves in a variety of roles at Manna Project International's Ecuador site. She is the Co-Chair of the organization's family advisory committee, coordinator of a women's group, as well as frequently teaches workshops for women and children at MPI's community center. Yeimmy and her daughter both participate in MPI's English classes as well as adult and kids cooking classes. Yeimmy loves organizing communities and has previous experience in the field.
Community Advisor
Adriana is an English Teacher at a local high school and is the Co-Chair of MPI's family advisory committee. Her two daughters and her husband participate in English classes given at the MPI community center. Adriana has been a host mother to MPI's Program Directors and loves being part of the team to do helpful and meaningful work. Adriana also teaches MPI's Kids English Club and really appreciates the opportunities the organization has provided for her and her family.
University of Virginia '17, Finance and Management
Annie Borgeson grew up in Wyckoff, New Jersey about 30 minutes outside New York City. She graduated in May 2017 from the University of Virginia with a degree in Finance & Management and a minor in Psychology. After being involved in a club on campus that fundraised for health and education programs throughout Nicaragua and traveling there three times, she knew she wanted to serve with a nonprofit long term in a Latin American country. She is excited to learn, grow, and create relationships with Manna's community in Ecuador. In her free time, Annie enjoys being outdoors- swimming, kayaking, hiking (you name it!), listening to live music, and spending time with family & friends.
University of Delaware '16, Environmental Studies
Francesca grew up outside of Philadelphia, PA. In 2016, she graduated with a BA in Environmental Studies from University of Delaware. Francesca is passionate about environmentalism, social justice, and making the world livable for everybody! For these reasons, and the opportunity to develop her professional skills and work in the non-profit sector, Francesca applied to be a Program Director for MPI in Ecuador. She is very excited to teach as she learns and learn as she teaches.
Northeastern University '18, International Affairs and Economics
Joey was born in New York City and was raised in Cleveland, Ohio. He is currently a senior at Northeastern University, located in Boston, Massachusetts. He is majoring in International Affairs and Economics and minoring in Spanish, and will be graduating in May of 2018. Joey wanted to work for MPI in Ecuador because he is very interested in the development field, especially when it comes to childhood education, and because he is interested in learning more about how an international NGO functions. He also wanted to work in Ecuador because he hopes to improve his Spanish speaking skills. After graduation, Joey plans to work for an NGO In either the U.S. or South America.
Cal Poly San Luis Obispo '15, Civil Engineering
Mike is a civil engineer who graduated from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo in July 2015. He wanted to work in Ecuador both to get back into international nonprofits and to improve his Spanish. In college he was a member of Engineers Without Boarders, where he had the opportunity to lead a team to Malawi, Africa for a project. It was an amazing experience and since then he has been wanting to move his career towards that field of work. In the future he would like to continue to work with international organizations focused on sustainable development around the world.
Colorado College '15, Neuroscience
Rob grew up in Ann Arbor, MI and graduated from Colorado College in Colorado Springs in May 2015 with a Bachelor's degree in neuroscience. After getting into medical school, Rob decided that he wanted to defer matriculation for a year to spend time learning about Ecuadorian culture and developing his Spanish skills before starting his career in medicine. He found Manna Project's holistic approach to community development particularly impressive and decided to apply as a Program Director. In his free time, Rob enjoys playing soccer and volleyball, mountain biking, and learning about natural science.
Nicaragua Team
Nicaragua Country Director
Christina's involvement with nonprofits began when she volunteered for a domestic violence organization while pursuing her BA in Sociology at the University of North Carolina at Asheville. She went on to spend eight years working with domestic violence victims, incarcerated females, and at-risk youth. Christina received a Master in Public Management from SDA Bocconi School of Management in Milan, Italy and worked for the World Health Organization while living in Italy. In 2009, Christina was first introduced to Nicaragua and went on to spend two years working with the Nicaraguan Ministries of Health and Education in the department of Masaya. Christina is currently pursuing a Master in Public Health at the University of North Carolina Gillings School of Global Public Health and was selected to receive the Emerging Global Public Health Scholars Award and the Gillings Merit Scholars Award. Prior to joining Manna Project in 2013, Christina worked as a Research and Evaluation Associate for Safe Horizon, the largest victims' services agency in the US.
Nicaragua Assistant Country Director
Dana’s interest in nonprofit work was sparked while pursuing her B.A. in International Development at Clark University, where she had the opportunity to intern at various nonprofit organizations including Habitat for Humanity and Lutheran Social Services of New England. She first joined MPI Nicaragua in 2014 as a Program Director after receiving her M.A. in Community Development & Planning. During her first year in Nicaragua, she fell in love with the communities that MPI serves and was impressed by the organization’s holistic and sustainable approach to development. After a year of working in MPI's educational and business development programs, Dana decided to extend her contract to work with MPI as a Senior Program Director for two more years, providing on-site and organizational support before transitioning to her current role. She is thrilled to be a part of the Manna Project team and for the opportunity to continue working with the communities she has grown to love.
Villa Guadalupe Clinic Administrator
Yami has been working with Manna Project International for over ten years and has become an invaluable part of the work the organization does in the Villa Guadalupe community. She first began working with MPI while the organization was still operating in La Chureca, which was the largest open-air landfill in Central America. She has over fifteen years of experience working in the health field. Yami handles the administration of the Villa Guadalupe clinic, helping with everything from making sure patients receive a kind reception to keeping all of the clinic's files organized and up to date.
Nurse, Cedro Galan Clinic and Villa Guadalupe Clinic
Selma has been part of the MPI team for three years, working as a nurse at both of the organization's health clinics in Nicaragua. She has thirty-three years of nursing experience under her belt. She was first drawn to nursing through her love of helping others and she feels that working with MPI has given her a chance to reach those most in need.
Doctor, Villa Guadaupe Clinic
Lilliam has been working as a general practitioner at MPI’s clinic in Villa Guadalupe since it opened two years ago. She has over ten years of medical experience and her warm personality never fails to put patients at ease. Lilliam knew from a very young age that she wanted to become a doctor so she could help people improve their health and prevent illnesses.
Gynecologist, Villa Guadalupe Clinic
Karla has eight years of experience working as a Gynecologist at Carlos Roberto Huembes, which makes her an incredible resource for the women of Villa Guadalupe. Karla's favorite part of her job is working with new mothers and getting to witness the joy they experience after giving birth. She also believes that improving women’s health in Nicaragua is critical for the country’s development and feels passionate about improving access to care in underserved communities like Villa Guadalupe.
Doctor, Cedro Galán Clinic
Wendy decided to become a doctor because she loved the idea of helping others to improve their health. For the past three years, she has been doing just that by providing care for patients at MPI’s clinic in Cedro Galán. With 17 years of experience as a general practitioner, Wendy is a tremendous asset to our staff. She is passionate about providing access to quality healthcare to people with limited resources and feels that the presence of a clinic in Cedro Galán has made a huge difference for the community.
Social Worker & Health Promoter, Villa Guadalupe Clinic
Julio has been with MPI for over ten years. In addition to helping with the administration of the Villa Guadalupe clinic, he also serves as a community health promoter and oversees Manna Project's childhood nutrition program. His favorite part of working at the clinic is going door to door in the community and finding people that MPI can help through the services the organization offers.
Nutritionist, Villa Guadalupe Clinic
Monica has been working as a nutritionist with MPI at the Villa Guadalupe clinic for the past four years, helping to oversee the nutritional care of the children in the child malnutrition program. Monica brings a wealth of experience, with over twenty years of practice as a nutritionist and fifteen years of experience working for the Nicaraguan Health Ministry (MINSA). Monica experienced her own nutrition-related issues as a young girl, which is what first inspired her to get involved in her field. She says that her favorite part of her work is getting to see her patients’ health improve.
Maintenance
Angela has been working with MPI since the organization first began to operate in Villa Guadalupe over three years ago. Angela has become an invaluable part of th clinic team. Thanks to her, members of the Villa Guadalupe community always have a clean and organized space to receive care. Angela says that she loves being able to do her part at the clinic and believes that the community really appreciates the services offered.
Penn State '17, Political Science
Andrew is from Stone Harbor, New Jersey. He graduated from Penn State in 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science. In 2015, Andrew was a Summer Intern with Manna Project International in Nicaragua. It was during this internship that Andrew first developed his passion for both Latin America and non-profit work. While at school, Andrew developed a passion for working with kids after being a part of Big Brothers Big Big Sisters and seeing the impact positive role models can have on children as they grow. Andrew is excited to be back in Nicaragua to build relationships in the community and explore the country and culture he was first exposed to two years ago.
Whitman College '14, BBMB
Carol is from Portland, Oregon. She graduated from Whitman College in 2014 with a degree in BBMB (biochemistry, biophysics, and molecular biology). After college, Carol worked as a clinic medical scribe and in a neurosurgery lab. She volunteered with Manna Project in 2012 and was impressed by their holistic approach to development and their partnerships with the community. Her experience with Manna Project inspired her to return sometime after graduating college to continue working in community development. After her time in Nicaragua, she hopes to enter the medical field to help those who are disadvantaged access the healthcare they need.
University of South Carolina '17, Biology
Jaclyn is from Charleston, South Carolina and graduated from the University of South Carolina Honors College in May of 2017 with a Bachelor’s of Science in Biology. Throughout college she shadowed doctors and worked in hospitals, which sparked a love of healthcare and medicine. Her passion for working in Latin America developed through a study abroad trip to Mexico to study endangered sea turtles. She chose to work with Manna Project to learn from the culture and time spent in the medical clinics. Jaclyn hopes this experience will enhance her desire to pursue a career in healthcare and attend medical school.
University of South Carolina ‘17, Biology and Chemistry
Madeleine is from Boston, Massachusetts and graduated from the University of South Carolina in May 2017 with a Bachelor’s of Science of Biology and Chemistry. As a premedical student in college, she traveled to Panama for a service learning trip where she developed a passion for culture and working with underserved communities. Since then she has continued working with patients and physicians in clinical settings. Because of these experiences, she chose to work with Manna Project to be further exposed to cultural differences and develop her Spanish communication skills. Madeleine plans to attend medical school after her time with Manna Project.
Franklin & Marshall College '17, Spanish
Matt is from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He graduated from Franklin & Marshall College in 2017, where he was a Spanish major and played intercollegiate soccer. In college, he was involved in service-learning trips to Honduras and South Africa and also participated in a public health study abroad in Santiago, Chile. Matt joined MPI Nicaragua for the opportunity to work with a unique nonprofit and meet others who are enthusiastic about community development. He is excited to be exploring Nicaragua, meeting its people and developing life-long ties. He is passionate about global and rural healthcare and plans to attend medical school after Manna. In addition to sports, Matt likes photography, hiking, and traveling.
Elmira College '17, International Studies and Spanish
Meredith is from Corning, New York and graduated from Elmira College in 2017 with degrees in International Studies and Spanish and a minor in Political Science. Meredith spent two weeks in Nicaragua in May of 2016 and was determined to return after that trip. After going to college 20 miles from home, Meredith is excited to break out and have this new experience with such a great organization. She sees this position as a stepping stone towards a career working towards sustainable development in the non-profit sector.
UNC Chapel Hill '17, Global Studies
Susan was born and raised in Wilmington, North Carolina. She graduated from UNC Chapel Hill in 2017 with a major in Global Studies and a minor in Spanish. Throughout college, she worked at various summer camps and after school programs, where she developed a passion for youth development. She chose to work with Manna Project for a variety of reasons, including pursuing her interest in nonprofit work, improving her Spanish fluency, and contributing to the deep community values of the organization.
Program Manager, LinkedIn
Masters Candidate, Industrial/Organizational Psychology, San Francisco State University
Jocelyn was a Program Director at MPI's Ecuador site from 2008-2009, leading the Adult English and Spring Break Volunteer programs while supporting other initiatives such as women's health & nutrition and the after school program. Currently living in San Francisco, Jocelyn is a Program Manager for LinkedIn and holds a Master of Industrial/Organizational Psychology degree. Her interests lie in organizational development and international work teams. She is thrilled to continue supporting MPI as Board Chair.
Financial Economist, FDIC
Chet first got involved with MPI as a short term volunteer in Nicaragua during 2008. As a 2009 Ecuador Program Director, Chet led the microfinance program and constructed a training manual for operations. He also taught adult English and children's art. During his time with MPI, Chet gained a firsthand knowledge of economic issues faced by developing countries, which has proven invaluable in his career as a financial economist. Chet holds a Ph.D. in Economics from the University of Texas at Austin.
Project Coordinator, Christian Connections for International Health (CCIH)
Maddie was first introduced to MPI in 2007 while studying abroad in Nicaragua. She returned as a Program Director from 2008-2009 and focused on after-school programs for children and microloans for women. In 2010, she also served as part of the feasibility team for Manna Project's former Guatemala site. After returning to the States, she earned her MPH in Community-Oriented Primary Care from George Washington University. Maddie currently lives in the Washington, D.C. area and supports Christian Connections for International Health’s reproductive health projects.
Legislative Assistant, Congressman Bruce Westerman
During his 13 months as a Program Director in Ecuador, Jefferson launched the microloans program, ran the teen center, and led alumni and international public relations for the site. This experience furthered Jefferson's passion for international affairs. He moved to Washington D.C to pursue a career in politics and international relations. Jefferson joined MPI's Board of Directors in the spring of 2014. He currently handles international, defense, and trade policy work for Congressman Bruce Westerman (AR-04).
Co-Founder, Manna Project International
As one of Manna Project's founders, Lori has been a vital part of the MPI team since graduating from Vanderbilt University in 2004 with degrees in Psychology and Elementary Education. Lori's involvement began when she helped charter the organization in January of 2004. In September 2004, Lori and 9 others journeyed to Nicaragua where they founded MPI's first international site. Lori taught preschool and designed and implemented the first art and literacy programs. Lori acted as the Nicaragua Country Director before stepping into the role of Executive Director. She now serves on the Board and lives in Orlando, Florida with her family.
Flight Controller, NASA Johnson Space Center
Fiona was first introduced to MPI as a summer volunteer in Ecuador in 2009, shortly after graduating from Washington University in St. Louis with a mechanical engineering degree. Two years later, she returned as a year-long Program Director in Nicaragua in 2011-2012, and was involved in the English, math, literacy, and child sponsorship programs. Currently, Fiona lives in Houston, where she works as a flight controller in NASA's Mission Control Center for the International Space Station.
VP of Global Payments, INTL FCStone Global Payments
Kat has been involved with MPI since 2007, when she joined the Vanderbilt campus chapter. She went on to become the campus chapter President before co-founding the Guatemala site in 2010. Upon returning to the U.S., Kat continued to work for MPI stateside as the Communications Coordinator. Kat now works for a leading global payments provider, INTL FCStone, where she utilizes her Spanish and Portuguese by working with Latin American clients.
Account Director, Tongal
Scott first got involved with MPI as a freshman at Vanderbilt University, and served as the Co-President of MPI's Vanderbilt campus chapter his senior year. Currently living in Brooklyn, Scott is an Account Director at Tongal, a platform for creative content development. Previously, Scott worked at Google as an online advertising strategy consultant, with a focus on YouTube and the digital video space. He has a passion for social entrepreneurship and international development, having worked and done research in Ghana, Uganda, Rwanda, and Kenya. Scott has a Master's Degree in Refugee and Forced Migration Studies from the University of Oxford and a Bachelor's Degree in English and Human and Organizational Development from Vanderbilt University.
Global Strategy, Paypal
Annie first got involved with MPI as a sophomore at Vanderbilt University and served as the VP of Global Programs for MPI's Vanderbilt campus chapter her senior year. Annie recently moved to San Francisco to join PayPal’s Global Strategy Team. Previously, she worked as a consultant with McKinsey & Company, focusing primarily on financial inclusion by offering formal financial services to low-income families. She lived in Bogotá, Colombia for a year doing research on the same. Annie has a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and Spanish from Vanderbilt University.
Finance and Administration
As one of Manna Project's founders, Lori has been a vital part of the MPI team since graduating from Vanderbilt University in 2004 with degrees in Psychology and Elementary Education. Lori's involvement began when she helped charter the organization in January of 2004. In September 2004, Lori and 9 others journeyed to Nicaragua where they founded MPI's first international site. Lori taught preschool and designed and implemented the first art and literacy programs. Lori acted as the Nicaragua Country Director for before creating and stepping into the role of Executive Director. Lori served as the Executive Director until 2016 when she stepped down to focus on her family. She continues to be involved with Manna Project as the Financial Manager and as a board member. She lives in Orlando, Florida with her husband and son.