Staff Leadership Team

Peter has been the Access President/CEO since March 2005, providing steadfast leadership to drive the organization’s mission and strategic commitments forward. With a Master of Education with a focus in Administration & Planning from Harvard University and a Bachelor’s Degree from Boston College, he brings a strong strategic administrative foundation to his role. As President/CEO, Peter supports the Access Board of Directors to fulfill their responsibilities and provides leadership that ensures Access’s Strategic Plan is clear and focused and guides the daily work of Access.

Throughout his 48-year career in the nonprofit sector, Peter has been dedicated to serving those striving for economic stability. He has held various leadership positions, including CEO at The CT Council of Family Service Agencies and at the Mystic Community Center.

Peter’s compassion for and commitment to community service extends beyond his role at Access, as demonstrated by his involvement in organizations such as the CT Association for Community Action, the CT Coalition to End Homelessness, and the CT Community Nonprofit Alliance, and as an Adjunct Professor at the University of Connecticut’s Master of Public Administration Program.

When not working, Peter finds joy in spending time with his wife Gloria and their three children and three grandchildren, as well as boating and playing music with family and friends.

Emma joined Access in 2021, bringing with her a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to community welfare. As VP/CPO, Emma oversees programs related to Human Development Services (Case Managers, Resident Service Coordinators, Emergency Shelter, Homeless Prevention Service), Community Services, and Quality Assurance. She provides strategic leadership to ensure effective program delivery and agency-wide impact. Emma holds a Master of Social Work degree from Wheelock College and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Providence College. Her educational background and diverse internship experiences have equipped her with the skills to address complex social challenges and drive positive change in communities.

Before joining Access, Emma served in leadership roles, including Deputy District Director for US Congressman Joe Courtney and Senior Center Coordinator for the Town of Coventry. Her experience in managing programs, coordinating services, and supervising staff has been instrumental in her current role. As an overseer of the operational aspects, Emma ensures contractual compliance and provides consultation and supervision to agency staff.

Outside of her work, Emma is a passionate reader with a goal of reading 150 books in 2024. Her dedication to her work and commitment to personal growth make her a valuable asset to Access and the communities it serves.

Parker brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his role as Sr. Director – Finance & Information Systems. With a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting, earned in 2013 from Eastern Connecticut State University, along with a minor in Business Information Systems, and a subsequent Master’s Degree in Accounting from the same institution in 2016. Parker has a strong educational background in finance and technology.

Having dedicated over nine years to Access in various roles, Parker’s journey within the agency has been marked by continuous growth and contribution. His experience includes tax expertise and a notable stint as a site coordinator for the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program in early 2013, demonstrating his commitment to community service and financial acumen.

Parker’s tenure at Access has seen him progress through the ranks from Accounting Clerk to his current position as Sr. Director, overseeing all financial operations, risk management, and information technology. His leadership has been pivotal in steering the organization toward financial stability and technological advancement.

Elizabeth is a seasoned professional with a richly diverse community service background. She has been a cornerstone of Access since 2012 and now serves as the Sr. Director – Quality Assurance, bringing her wealth of expertise to this pivotal position.

As Sr. Director – Quality Assurance, Elizabeth reviews the accurate collection and reporting of organizational data to tell the stories of our community and the integral work that Access does to make Windham and Tolland Counties a better place.

Elizabeth has extensive management, customer service, and community engagement experience. She enjoyed her previous role as Employment Program Manager, where she explored with customers new career options that would utilize their developed skill sets. One of her passions is to encourage and motivate individuals to embrace hope for a prosperous future and adopt a desire to implement positive change.

Elizabeth’s dedication to excellence and her passion for community service make her a valuable asset to Access and its Sr. Leadership Team. Her important work in quality assurance ensures that Access continues to meet the evolving needs of its customers and upholds its mission of making a positive impact.

Alejandro’s journey at Access began as the Supportive Housing for Families Manager, where he helped parents reunify with their children. In 2014, he transitioned to the Property Management team, overseeing various Affordable Housing Programs and Senior Housing complexes. 

In August 2017, Alejandro joined the Sr. Leadership Team as Sr. Director – Housing & Property Management, where he provides strategic oversight of affordable housing and rehabilitation programs, property management initiatives, and employment programs targeting property improvements. Outside of work, Alejandro enjoys exploring new destinations through travel, staying active with sports, and indulging in his passion for international cuisine, particularly Italian cuisine. His multifaceted interests and dedication to his work make him an invaluable asset to Access.

Kelly joined our team in 2015, bringing a wealth of experience and a passion for supporting our workforce. With a background in education and accounting from ECSU, Kelly is well-equipped to oversee and advise on all HR functions, ensuring compliance across the agency. Her journey into HR began after a successful career in retail management. Kelly’s expertise in training and development, coupled with her ability to flex her leadership style, has been instrumental in her role. Outside of work, Kelly is a devoted mother to her four children and serves as a local Girl Scout leader. She enjoys spending quality time at the lake with her friends and family, embodying the values of balance, leadership, and community that she brings to her role every day.

Jolene brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to supporting young residents. With a BA in Psychology and credentials as a Handle With Care Trainer, Jolene ensures the delivery of high-quality services to our adolescent residents. Jolene’s journey in the field began in 2003, working in group homes and residential facilities gradually assuming roles from direct care staff to shift supervisor. Her dedication to empowering youth led her to Access in 2008 as a Transitional Living Coordinator, eventually becoming Program Director from 2010 to 2015. In 2018, Jolene returned to Access as the Director – Adolescent Services, where she continues to make a profound impact. Outside of work, Jolene finds joy in gardening, outdoor activities, cooking, and cherishing moments with her daughter, friends, and family, often welcoming both planned and surprise dinner guests with warmth and hospitality.