Meet Our Staff
WEDI is composed of ambitious and dedicated individuals who believe passionately in our mission, the potential of the people we serve, and the ability of our work to bring about positive change in the community. We invite you to learn more about the WEDI team and check out our employment opportunities.
Executive Staff
Recipient Organizational Award Non-profit
Carolynn was born and raised in Buffalo and has enjoyed watching it become an even better place to live over the years. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from D’Youville University. Carolynn has worked at WEDI since 2017 and was appointed executive director in 2019. Prior to WEDI, she worked at various nonprofits for 20+ years in areas including program management, development, compliance, and administration. In September 2022, Carolynn received the Delta Sigma Alumni Award from D'Youville University. In her free time she enjoys reading. She lives in Hamburg with her three children.
Languages Spoken: English
Connection to WEDI’s Mission: “I love seeing the direct impact of our work through the smiles on students’ faces, the success of small business owners, and the satisfaction of both when they achieve their dreams. By working as a partner with our clients we see the best results and are able to meet people where they are to achieve success.”
Courtney has lived in Buffalo since 2016 and considers herself a Buffalonian. She holds dual bachelor’s degrees in English and Anthropology from SUNY Geneseo. Prior to working at WEDI, Courtney spent a year in Thailand, volunteered at Mary's Place, taught TESOL classes, and served as an AmeriCorps ABLE member. In her free time she enjoys going on 'adventures,' renovating her home, reading, gardening, and tending to her numerous aquariums. She lives on the West Side of Buffalo with her husband, his daughter, and two cats. Courtney was named WEDI's Employee of the Month in October 2022 and June 2023.
Languages Spoken: English
Connection to WEDI’s Mission: “I was shaped by the experience of being raised by a single mother and never having financial or housing stability. I want to help others avoid this situation so there is never a question of having enough food for everyone to eat or a debate about which bills won't be paid this month.”
Best Advice She Ever Received: Pain is inevitable. Suffering is by choice.
Carrie moved to Buffalo when she was 9 years old and returned to the area after she received her bachelor’s in government from Smith College in Massachusetts. She earned her master’s in higher education administration from the University at Buffalo. She has worked at other local nonprofits (YMCA and Community Services for Every1) and was the owner of East Meets West Yoga. She now is the owner of New Moon Mindful Movement. Carrie lives on West Side with her partner, and their two dogs and two cats and she enjoys taking them on adventures in the Buffalo area and going on road trips.
Languages spoken: English
Connection to WEDI’s mission: “I have been aware of WEDI for a few years and was a frequent customer at the West Side Bazaar. I am so proud to be associated with an organization that has done so much to support the immigrants and refugees of our community.”
Best piece of advice she’s ever received: “Don't make decisions when you are tired... or hungry.”
Development and Communications Team
Cody has lived in Buffalo since 2011. He holds multiple degrees from the University at Buffalo including a bachelor’s degree in Environmental Design with a minor in Geography and a Masters of Urban Planning with dual specializations in Neighborhood Planning and Community Development and Economic Development and International Planning. Prior to working at WEDI, Cody interned for Joule Assets. He serves on the board of the King Urban Life Center where he is the chair of the Restoration and Facilities Committees. In his free time he enjoys playing video games and ultimate frisbee, hiking, working on cars, and tinkering away at greasy mechanical projects. Cody was named WEDI's Employee of the Month in June 2021.
Languages Spoken: English
Connection to WEDI’s Mission: “In my own life experiences and what I’ve observed of others, I’ve seen the invisible but very real barriers that prevent people from improving their lives and it has left me with a smoldering core of passion for this work. I want not just to help people, but to eliminate the systemic issues that cause them to need assistance in the first place.”
Best Advice He Ever Received: No matter how tough things get, always find a reason to smile and laugh. Never lose your sense of humor.
Katherine has lived in Buffalo since 2015. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Journalism from SUNY Purchase. Prior to WEDI, Katherine worked as a freelance writer for newspapers, magazines, and blogs and also as a salesperson for Brady Corporation in Williamsville, NY. In her spare time, Katherine enjoys being outdoors, gardening, traveling, listening to music, and cooking. She lives with her boyfriend, her best friend, and three cats. Katherine was named WEDI's Employee of the Month in August 2022 and WEDI's Employee of the Year for 2022.
Languages Spoken: English
Connection to WEDI’s Mission: “I was a volunteer writer for Karibu News where I got to interview refugees and hear their stories. I was deeply affected by their stories and by how clearly grateful they were to be here and have things like drinking water or free school for their kids. When I found out about WEDI, it re-motivated me to be a part of helping refugees.”
Best Advice She Ever Received: "Don't ever give up hope. There is always hope." May-Antoinette Colman, Katie’s grandmother
Elizabeth was born and raised in Western New York. She received bachelor’s degrees in public relations and English and Textual Studies from Syracuse University. Prior to WEDI, Elizabeth worked in the mortgage industry, wrote for Buffalo Spree's website, and took care of her children. Elizabeth is the Vice President of the Board of Directors at Stitch Buffalo and a member of the Board of Directors for Western New York Planned Giving Consortium. In her free time she enjoys running, hiking, and cheering for Buffalo sports teams. She lives with her husband and two children in Hamburg. Elizabeth was named WEDI's Employee of the Month in March 2021.
Languages Spoken: English
Connection to WEDI’s Mission: “I believe in supporting small businesses and creating opportunities for everyone who work hard to succeed, not just those who fit a certain mold.”
Best Advice She Ever Received: "Just YouTube it. You can figure out how to do anything if you go on YouTube."
Contact: (716) 507-5286 or elovria@wedibuffalo.org
Dana is a proud Buffaloian who was born and raised here. She graduated with a bachelor’s degree in public relations from Syracuse University and has over 2 decades in the public relations and communications industry. She has owned her own business, 85 West Communications (a MWBE business), for 5 years and previously, she worked for Fisher-Price, Delaware North, and New Era Cap. In her spare time, she enjoys traveling, rowing and exercising, watching and reading true crime stories, practicing sign language, and hanging out with friends. She feels lucky and grateful for her 3 boys: her spontaneous husband, her very special autistic 14-year-old and her empathic 12-year-old. Dana was named WEDI's Employee of the Month in January 2024.
Languages spoken: English
Connection to WEDI’s mission: “I feel connected to WEDI's mission because I recognize and appreciate how the organization places great importance on addressing economic disparities in the community and I value WEDI’s approach to supporting economic equity in WNY and building a more just and inclusive society.”
Best piece of advice she’s ever received: Always ask questions!
Economic Development Team
While Kat was born and raised in Chautauqua County, she considers Buffalo her home city as her mother’s family goes back generations on Buffalo’s East Side. She earned her Bachelor of Science from Cornell University School of Hotel Administration. Kat brings a wealth of business, economic development and equity experience to WEDI from her previous roles at startups like G5, Squire Technologies, Memory Fox, and Braidbabes; as well as from her current roles as Executive Director of Buffalo Startup Week, a Director of the non-profit BootSector, as the founder of Better Together, a local antiracist discussion group dedicated to proactively doing the work needed to expand cultural competency personally and professionally; and numerous mentorship and coaching roles in local entrepreneurial education programs. In her free time, she likes to read, garden, DIY her home, hike, and ski.
Languages spoken: English
Connection to WEDI’s mission: “Economic equity is a basic American promise and working to make that the reality as well is something that I am dedicated to make happen.”
Best advice she’s ever received: “Life is messy sometimes, and that’s OK!”
A native of Canada, Cristen holds a bachelor’s degree in Voice Performance from University of Toronto, a master’s degree in Business Administration from Medaille College, and she has earned an international designation as a Certified Volunteer Administrator (CVA). Prior to WEDI, she worked as the executive director of many arts organizations and served as a chair and/or member of numerous nonprofit boards. She also teaches How to Run a Non-Profit and Voice classes at Canisius College, acts as a certified holistic nutritionist/health and wellness coach, performs music all over the world, and teaches voice. She lives in Buffalo with her husband.
Languages Spoken: English and Ukrainian
Connection to WEDI’s Mission: “Everyone deserves to have the chance to succeed and the tools to make it happen.”
Best Advice She Ever Received: Always believe something wonderful will happen. Seize the day!!
Lou is originally from Honeoye Falls, NY and came to Buffalo for college in 2021. He graduated from the University at Buffalo in May 2023 with a bachelor’s degree in economics and political science, specializing in public administration and international relations. Before joining WEDI, he interned at the Erie County Executive’s office, where he researched issue areas and provided support for County objectives. He currently lives in Tonawanda, and enjoys being with his family, cooking and reading. Lou was named WEDI's Employee of the Month in February 2024.
Languages spoken: English
Connection to WEDI’s mission: “I strongly believe in promoting economic opportunities for all Buffalo/WNY residents regardless of what they look like or where they were born. WEDI’s mission helps keep the “American Dream” alive for both newcomers and long-time residents. I’m grateful to be working with WEDI to achieve economic equity in Western NY.”
Best Advice He Ever Received: “Full speed or nothing” - Metallica
Purnima has lived in Buffalo for 15 years. She holds bachelor’s degrees in Chemistry and Food & Fermentation Technology from the University of Mumbai, India. Prior to WEDI, she worked for Rich Products and Coca Cola India. Purnima has volunteered with numerous nonprofits and serves as the co-president of her PTSA Council. In her free time she enjoys arts and crafts, singing, dancing, cooking, photography, and volunteering. She lives in Amherst with her husband and son. Purnima was named WEDI's Employee of the Month in January 2022. and September 2023
Languages Spoken: English, Hindi, Tamil, Marathi
Connection to WEDI’s Mission: “I work with clients/business owners with diverse backgrounds at the West Side Bazaar. It's wonderful to see the passion in these business owners and it's a privilege to support WEDI’s clients and help them make their dreams a reality by providing training opportunities and guiding them through their incubation process. I love collaborating and working with different partners in the Community.”
Best Advice She Ever Received: When the going gets tough the tough get going!
Katrina was born and raised in Buffalo, NY. She has a bachelor’s degree in Finance and an associate’s degree in Accounting from the University of the Pacific. With over 15 years of experience in financial institutions and credit unions, Katrina brings extensive knowledge working with internal and external customers to provide lending and financial services. In her spare time, she enjoys cooking, working out, and focuses on self-care and self-improvement.
Languages spoken: English
Connection to WEDI's Mission: “I grew up in the inner city of Buffalo where there are communities that I am connected to that struggle daily to obtain and maintain financial stability. This is often due to lack of education. I have a goal to educate the community on the importance of financial stability.”
Best Advice She’s Ever Received: “The importance of controlling my emotions, never allow them to control me. It’s dangerous to the soul”
Maggie was born and raised in Hamburg, NY. She graduated from SUNY Geneseo with bachelor’s degrees in Anthropology and Geography. After graduating from college, she worked as an AmeriCorps VISTA for Grassroots Gardens WNY. Maggie also worked as a farm manager at 5 Loaves Farm and as Operations Director at a small native landscaping company prior to joining WEDI. In her spare time, she enjoys cooking, being outside, and hanging out with her baby boy.
Languages spoken: English
Connection to WEDI’s mission: “I believe everyone should have equal access to success. I am also an active advocate for food security - having access to healthy and diverse food.”
Best Advice She’s Ever Received: “Actions speak louder than words.”
Esperance moved to Buffalo as a refugee in 2005 and considers it her home. She holds an associate degree in Business Administration from Erie Community College, a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Medaille College, and a master’s degree in Public Administration from Buffalo State College. Prior to working at WEDI, Esperance provided services to people with mental health issues and their families. In her free time she enjoys traveling and spending time with family. She lives with her husband and four children. Esperance was named WEDI's Employee of the Month in May 2022.
Languages Spoken: English, French, Kinyarwanda, Swahili, Kirundi
Connection to WEDI’s Mission: “Working for WEDI is close to my heart because I understand the hard work and effort it takes to start a business. Helping under-represented business entrepreneurs secure funding to begin their journey gives me a sense of pride. I am a woman, a minority, and came to the United States as a refugee so I can relate to my clients. I know what it means to start from scratch, to have an idea and a dream, but to need a little help to make it a reality. Seeing how beneficial my work is to the individuals and the larger community gives me joy!”
Best Advice She Ever Received: “My parents advised me to ‘Never give up.’ This helped me achieve my goal of completing my studies even though I had to learn English and computers, along with a new culture.”
Ryan was born in Buffalo. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Mercyhurst University and a master’s degree from Pennsylvania State University. Prior to working at WEDI, he was an AmeriCorps service member at the City of Buffalo, Division of Citizen Services. In his free time, he enjoys playing soccer. Ryan was named WEDI's employee of the month in April 2023.
Languages Spoken: English
Connection to WEDI’s Mission: “WEDI allows me to merge my desire to make a difference in the world with my interest in business.”
Best Advice He Ever Received: “Do what you love and you’ll never work a day in your life.”
Donata is originally from Rwanda and came to the United States in 2015. Back in her country, she worked as a retail food business owner for 15 years. Donata started a business when she was 17 years old. Her business was successful and expended until she came to the United States. Donata is working at West Side Bazaar as Assistant Manager and enjoys working closely with small businesses and clients every day.
Education Team
A proud Buffaloian, Leeya has lived in the area her entire life. She received her master's degree in English and her bachelor’s degree in English and Legal Studies from the University at Buffalo. Before joining WEDI, she worked as an advisor for Delta Sonic, a writer at CBR, a comic book company, and volunteered with the Belle Center. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, writing, music, animation, tennis and spending time with loved ones.
Languages Spoken: English and French
Connection to WEDI’s Mission: "Having a lifelong connection to WNY, I think WEDI is so important and worthwhile because I've always felt strongly about the necessity of a vibrant, successful immigrant and refugee community in Buffalo.”
Best Advice She’s Ever Received: If the world is cold, make it your business to build fires.
Mathilda was born and raised in Hauppauge, NY, on Long Island. She earned her bachelor’s degree in literature from SUNY Purchase college and in 2021, she moved to Buffalo to attend University at Buffalo where she received a master’s degree in comparative literature. Prior to joining WEDI, she worked as a tutor at SUNY Purchase College, and she helped students on an individual basis to help develop their literacy, time management, and writing skills. She enjoys translating poetry from German and working on several unrelated research papers. She lives in Buffalo with her partner. Mathilda was named WEDI's Employee of the Month in March 2024.
Languages spoken: English and German
Connection to WEDI’s mission: “I have always held firm to the belief that education should be open and accessible, and I consider myself lucky to join WEDI in their mission to make that a reality in Buffalo.”
Donna was born in Buffalo. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Medaille College. Prior to WEDI, she worked for the Buffalo Public School system in special education. In her free time, she enjoys camping, biking, and art. She lives in Buffalo with her boyfriend and has three children, three grandchildren, and three dogs. Donna was named WEDI's Employee of the Month in February 2021.
Languages Spoken: English
Connection to WEDI’s Mission: “Growing up on the west side of Buffalo, I have seen many diverse groups of people move here and struggle to survive. I believe it’s important to give students an opportunity to receive an education equal to their peers so when they are ready to go to college or get a job, they have the knowledge to succeed. I feel privileged to have this opportunity.”
Carmen was born on Andrew’s Air Force Base and spent most of her life in Virginia. She moved to Buffalo in 2016. She is a math teacher at Lafayette International Community High School. Carmen received her Bachelors of Science in Mathematics Education 7-12 from Buffalo State and she is working to earn her in the same field as well as in Bilingual Education. In 2019, she had an opportunity to teach math in English in Santiago, Chile through a Buffalo State study abroad program. In her spare time, she records and produces music, her own and other artists, a passion she brings to our students in the Launch program as she teaches music production to them and as a part of WEDI’s Saturday Academy. She resides in the Riverside area with her dog daughter Leighla. In her spare time, she enjoys Law & Order, playing video games, knitting, and crochet.
Languages spoken: English and Spanish
Connection to WEDI’s mission: “When I moved to Buffalo in 2016 and started a life for myself with no family nearby, I have received many opportunities to help me be successful from continuing my studies at Buffalo State, becoming a beloved high school math teacher at Lafayette International Community High school to being more involved with the Buffalo community. With gaining success from these opportunities, I want to be able to give back to my community and help them navigate the education system here and grow into leaders and that it is never too late to bring your vision to life.”
Best Advice She’s Ever Received: Like what you do, and then you will do your best.
Jo was born and raised in Buffalo. They attend the University at Buffalo and is working toward a bachelor’s in theater. Prior to working for WEDI, they volunteered with the Belmont Center and as they are the oldest of their cousins, they have been watching kids for a long time. Jo enjoys crocheting, writing, and reading in their spare time. Jo lives in Allentown.
Languages spoken: English
Connection to WEDI’s mission: “I've always lived in Buffalo, and I've seen firsthand what a lack of equity can do to a person or family.”
Best advice they’ve ever received: “My family has always encouraged me to always be my most authentic self, and to always work hard to achieve whatever dreams I have.”
Finance and Administration Team
Nick came to Buffalo because of his stepdad, a local artist. He attended SUNY Fredonia where he earned his bachelor’s degree in history with a minor in sociology. Prior to attending WEDI, he interned at the Academy of Humanity and the Buffalo History Museum where he educated children on historical matters and social justice. In his spare time, he plays Dungeons and Dragons From a family of pet-lovers, at home he has 3 dogs, 2 cats, 2 rats, 5 fish, 2 gerbils, and a lizard.
Languages Spoken: English
Connection to WEDI’s Mission: “I have always been very passionate on social justice.”
Best Advice He’s Ever Received: There is no benefit in worrying, then there is no reason to worry.
Patti was born and raised in Lackawanna and she attended Jefferson Community College and SUNY Plattsburgh where she received her associate's degree in applied science in Computer Information Systems. She is an army veteran with over ten years in Information Technology and over 13 years in the accounting industry. A mother of 4 grown children, she enjoys staying fit, yoga, crocheting, reading, and cooking in her spare time.
Language Spoken: English
Greatest Piece of Advice She Ever Received: “Never forgot how hard you worked to get where you are today.”
WEDI is an ATHENA award recipient, organizational award non-profit
Pictured left-right: Elizabeth Lovria, WEDI's Grant and Operations specialist, Steve Zenger, WEDI Board of Directors, Carolynn Welch, WEDI's Executive Director and Nancy McNamara of UWBEC.
In accordance with federal laws and U.S. Department of the Treasury policy, this organization is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability. Learn more here.