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Board of Directors

Our Board is composed of visionary leaders who bring a wealth of expertise and dedication to guiding our organization. Their strategic insight and unwavering commitment help us fulfill our mission to empower individuals and families with the financial tools and education necessary for achieving lasting financial well-being.

As a distinguished Senior Executive with over four decades of commercial lending experience, offering a wealth of knowledge and expertise across various industries throughout New England. His extensive career in banking has been marked by a deep understanding of the market dynamics that drive business success in the region.

Currently, John serves as a Senior Executive for Leader Bank, where he continues to leverage his extensive background to support the growth and development of businesses across New England. Prior to his tenure at Leader Bank, he spent a significant 10 years at Brookline Bank, where he held the roles of Senior Vice President and Regional Director of Commercial Lending in the Commercial Lending Division. During his time at Brookline Bank, John earned a stellar reputation for his ability to secure financing for numerous Boston-area companies, helping them achieve their growth objectives.

John’s commitment to his community is as strong as his dedication to his profession. For over 30 years, he has been deeply involved in various community and charitable organizations in Waltham, MA. His service includes roles such as Chairman of the Board, Treasurer, and various committee positions at local charities. Additionally, he has served on the finance committee of Our Lady of the Afflicted in Waltham, MA, where his financial acumen has been invaluable.

John’s leadership extends to his civic engagement as well. He has been a member of the City of Waltham Zoning Board of Appeals for many years, a position to which he was appointed by the Mayor of Waltham. His involvement in local governance demonstrates his commitment to the betterment of his community.

Beyond his civic duties, John has been a long-standing Board Director for the Waltham Lions Club, contributing over 20 years of service, and has also served as a past Chair of the Waltham Chamber of Commerce, where he played a pivotal role in promoting local business interests.
In addition to his professional and community accomplishments, John has been a dedicated member of the Board of Directors for American Consumer Credit Counseling (ACCC) since 1994. His commitment to financial education and consumer advocacy has helped shape the organization’s mission and impact.

John is also an active alumnus of Boston College, where he earned his undergraduate degree, and Rivier College, where he completed his Master’s degree. His academic background, combined with his extensive professional experience, has equipped him with the skills and knowledge necessary to navigate the complexities of the financial world.

As a seasoned Producer and Account Executive with Stanton Insurance Agency, Inc., where he has proudly served since 1997. Over the years, James has established himself as a trusted professional in the insurance industry, bringing a wealth of experience and dedication to his clients. His commitment to excellence and personalized service has made him a valuable asset to Stanton Insurance and a respected figure in the field.

Beyond his professional achievements, James is deeply committed to his community, particularly through his long-standing involvement with Grace Baptist Church in Hudson, MA. Over the past 20+ years, he has held numerous leadership roles within the church, including Treasurer, Finance Committee Chair, Elder, and Missions Board member, among others. His contributions have been integral to the church’s growth and financial stewardship.

James’s passion for service extends to the broader community as well. He served as Chairman of the Board for Caritas Christian Academy High School in Hudson from 2007 to 2011, guiding the institution through a critical period of development. Additionally, his commitment to mental health and well-being was evident during his 10+ years on the Board of Directors for the Boston Christian Counseling Center in the late 1990s and early 2000s.  Recently in 2024 James has joined the MetroWest National Alliance on Mental Illness Board of Directors. James and his family have supported this organization for the past 15 years.

Since 1995, James has also been a dedicated member of the Board of Directors for American Consumer Credit Counseling (ACCC), where he has played a key role in shaping the organization’s mission and impact. His involvement with ACCC reflects his broader commitment to financial education and support for those in need.

In addition to his community and professional work, He  served  6 years in  the  construction  industry. He was a member of the Eastern Massachusetts Chapter of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (EM NARI) .  He served   on the Education Committee and Membership committee contributing his expertise to the development and training of industry professionals.

 

Donald has had a diverse and successful 40-year career, beginning as a self-employed entrepreneur in the construction industry. This foundational experience led to a significant 37-year journey in Commercial Real Estate and Commercial Distribution of building supplies, where he dedicated his efforts to business growth and operational efficiency.

Throughout his career, Donald has had the opportunity to lead and inspire teams ranging from small groups of 15 to dynamic teams of up to 125 employees. His leadership experience sharpened his managerial skills and deepened his understanding of the intricate relationship between employee engagement, customer satisfaction, and business success.

In addition to his leadership roles, Donald has taken a hands-on approach to business development and marketing, crafting and executing strategic plans that have driven growth. His career has provided him with valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities of navigating various market conditions.

Moreover, his extensive experience allowed him to engage closely with customers, employees, and tenants, gaining a unique perspective on their businesses, finances, and the delicate art of collections. These interactions underscored the importance of building strong, trust-based relationships for long-term success.

Currently, Donald has taken on a new role as the MA Business Development & Regional Manager for a Union Interior Contractor company. In this position, he is responsible for overseeing the construction of all interiors of commercial buildings in Boston and surrounding towns.

Zepur Kahwajian is an accomplished banking professional with over 35 years of experience in the industry. Currently serving as an Assistant Vice President at Brookline Bank, Zepur has been a key member of the bank’s team for the past 9 years, where her expertise and dedication have contributed to the bank’s success and growth.

Throughout her career, Zepur has demonstrated a strong commitment to community service, extending her influence beyond the banking world. She was a former board member of the Waltham Partnership for Youth, where she played an active role in supporting the development and success of young people in the community.  She was also a former member of the Waltham Chamber of Commerce and as the Secretary of the Armenian Relief Society’s board, where she helped guide the organization’s efforts to support the Armenian community.

Zepur resides in Waltham with her husband, son, and daughter, and remains deeply engaged in the local community. Her active involvement in various community initiatives reflects her dedication to making a positive impact in the lives of others.

Kenneth Lopez has dedicated a significant portion of his professional life to financial planning, guiding individuals and families toward achieving their financial goals. Over the years, Kenneth’s expertise has made a lasting impact on his clients, helping them navigate the complexities of financial management and secure their financial futures.

In addition to his work in financial planning, Kenneth has also enjoyed a successful career in property ownership. His experience as a property owner has provided him with a deep understanding of real estate investment and management, skills that have proven invaluable in his various professional and personal endeavors.

Now retired, Kenneth remains actively involved in his community. Throughout his life, he has participated in numerous social, charitable, and sports-related organizations in the Waltham area. His current community involvement includes contributions to Springwell, Sacred Heart Church, and the Lions Club, where he continues to make a positive impact on the lives of others.

Kenneth’s commitment to service extends to his long-standing role on the Board of Directors for American Consumer Credit Counseling, where he has served for approximately 28 years. His dedication to ACCC reflects his broader commitment to financial education and supporting individuals in achieving financial stability.

Mary Papazian brings over 20 years of extensive experience in foreign exchange trading, investment advising, corporate finance, and asset-liability management to her current roles. Her impressive career has seen her hold senior positions in some of the most dynamic financial institutions, where she has honed her expertise and established herself as a leader in the industry.

Previously, Mary served as Senior Vice President at Silicon Valley Banks, where she played a key role in expanding their international and foreign exchange offerings. Before that, she was Vice President at Fleet Capital Markets at Fleet Bank, where her work in corporate finance and capital markets further solidified her reputation as a knowledgeable and effective financial professional.

In addition to her corporate roles, Mary has contributed to the academic community. She was a lecturer in the executive education program at Harvard University, where she shared her insights and experience with future leaders in the field. Her passion for education continues in her current role as Founder and Managing Director of the Mucci Capital Markets Lab and as a Finance Professor at Merrimack College. She also founded and is the faculty advisor to Merrimack’s Equity Fund, Fixed Income fund and Alternative Fund. In these positions, she combines practical experience with academic rigor to inspire and educate the next generation of finance professionals.

Mary’s commitment to service extends beyond her professional and academic roles. Since 2018, she has been a dedicated Board Member of American Consumer Credit Counseling, where she uses her financial expertise to support the organization’s mission of helping individuals achieve financial stability and independence.

Matt Paradise has dedicated over 25 years to the field of financial education. He has won 7 awards for his book Financially Capable: A Friendly Guide to Building Whole-Health Wealth. He coauthored publications with the Massachusetts State Treasurer, the Federal Reserve Bank, and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC).

Matt, a renowned speaker trusted for his expertise, has taught people from diverse backgrounds, including Harvard University and homeless shelters throughout New England. Organizations like the Massachusetts State House, Fidelity Investments, and Massachusetts General Hospital have showcased his unique programs.

He’s earned multiple licenses and certifications in personal finance, including the Association for Financial Counseling & Planning Education (AFCPE®) Accredited Credit Counselor, Certified Educator in Personal Finance (CEPF®), and Certified Identity Theft Risk Management Specialist (CITRMS®).

Matt’s leadership helped create the Massachusetts Financial Education Collaborative (now the Financial Empowerment Network), which lobbied for K-12 financial literacy legislation signed by Governor Charlie Baker. He serves on multiple nonprofit boards to further financial capability and economic justice.

Matt relies on faith, hope, and love to navigate his personal journey. He has triumphed over drug addiction, homelessness, and cholangiocarcinoma (aka bile duct cancer). He is a loving husband, proud father, and dedicated caregiver for his in-laws. His poodle, Odyssey, keeps him active, and music is a cherished part of his life.

Lilian Rojas is a passionate and dedicated entrepreneur, serving as the owner and President of a successful importing, wholesaling, and distribution business that caters to Latino grocery stores, restaurants, and supermarkets throughout Eastern Massachusetts. Her business acumen extends to the retail sector, where she owns and operates a retail location in Waltham, Massachusetts, including a gourmet mini-grocery store on Elm Street. These ventures reflect her deep commitment to providing quality products and services to the local community.

Originally from Guatemala, Lilian’s journey to the United States marked the beginning of her entrepreneurial spirit. After emigrating, she initially ran a house cleaning business, which laid the groundwork for her eventual move into the importing business. Her determination and hard work have not only fueled her professional success but have also made her a respected figure within the community.

Lilian’s connection to her roots remains strong, and in 1996, she played a pivotal role in bringing the Guatemala Consulate to Waltham, strengthening the ties between the local Guatemalan community and their homeland. Her leadership and vision have been instrumental in fostering a sense of unity and pride among immigrants in the area.

In addition to her business endeavors, Lilian has been actively involved in community service. In December 2017, she became a Board member for American Consumer Credit Counseling, Inc., where she continues to contribute her expertise and passion for helping others achieve financial stability.

Residing in Waltham, Massachusetts, Lilian’s life and career are a testament to her resilience, entrepreneurial spirit, and unwavering commitment to her community.

Michael Silva has dedicated the past forty years to Retail Food Sales, where he has built a successful career in a continually evolving industry. For two decades, he served as a Business Manager, responsible for managing key accounts and ensuring that clients received the highest level of service and support. This role provided him with a deep understanding of the retail food industry and the needs of both customers and businesses.

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Mike has been actively involved in his community for many years. For the past five years, he has served as an Executive Board Member at American Consumer Credit Counseling, contributing to the organization’s mission of helping individuals achieve financial stability. This role allows him to apply his business expertise to a cause of significant personal importance.

Mike’s commitment to community service extends beyond his work with ACCC. He is highly active in his hometown of Waltham, where he has participated in various local initiatives. He has been a member of the Mayor’s election committee for many years, helping to organize the Mayor’s Day Festival annually. This event provides the people of Waltham, particularly children, with a day of fun and amusements at no cost.

Additionally, Mike has served as a Board Member organizing the Waltham Doo Wop for the past 16 years. This annual event celebrates music and tradition, bringing joy to the community.
These community events are not only enjoyable but also deeply fulfilling for Silva, allowing him to give back to the town that has been his home for many years. The impact made through these efforts drives him, and he takes pride in continuing to contribute to his community.

Joeseph Stasio, an Associate Professor of Marketing at Merrimack College in North Andover, MA, has dedicated the past 54 years to both teaching and practicing business. With a deep passion for marketing and entrepreneurship, Joseph has not only educated countless students but has also made significant contributions to the business world as a founder and leader of several companies.

Among his most recent ventures, Joseph co-founded Cardea Technologies Inc., where he serves as Director of Marketing, and C-LevelClone.com, where he holds the role of Director of Business Development. In these positions, he applies his extensive expertise to drive strategic growth and innovation, helping these companies navigate the competitive landscape.

Joseph’s academic work is marked by a strong focus on marketing and entrepreneurship, with a particular emphasis on start-ups and strategic planning for new and growing organizations. His research interests are reflected in his publication record, which explores various facets of these fields, providing valuable insights for both academics and practitioners.

He earned his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (B.S.B.A.) from Salem State College, followed by a Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) and an Advanced Professional Certificate (A.P.C.) from Suffolk University. In addition to his academic credentials, Joseph is also a Certified Marketing Professional, further underscoring his commitment to excellence in his field.

Joseph’s career is a testament to his dedication to both the theoretical and practical aspects of business, making him a respected figure in the world of marketing and entrepreneurship.

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Join Our Board of Directors and Drive Positive Change at American Consumer Credit Counseling

At American Consumer Credit Counseling (ACCC), we are seeking dedicated and visionary leaders to join our Board of Directors. As we continue to empower individuals and families to achieve financial independence, we need passionate leaders who can help us expand our impact and uphold our commitment to financial education and debt management.

We are looking for individuals who:

• Are passionate about driving growth and expanding ACCC’s reach to help more individuals achieve financial stability.
• Embrace digital innovation and are committed to leveraging technology to enhance our services and client engagement.
• Bring strategic vision and a forward-thinking approach to guiding our organization’s future.
• Demonstrate strong leadership skills and the ability to collaborate effectively with others to achieve our mission.

Why Join ACCC’s Board of Directors?

• ACCC is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping individuals and families take control of their financial futures. With your leadership, we can continue to expand our reach, improve our services, and make a lasting impact on the communities we serve.
• Our Board of Directors plays a vital role in shaping the strategic direction of ACCC, ensuring that we remain focused on our mission and continue to deliver high-quality financial counseling and debt management services.

Make an Impact with ACCC

• If you are ready to use your skills, experience, and passion to make a meaningful difference, we encourage you to apply to join our Board of Directors. Your involvement will help us continue to empower those in need and drive positive change in the financial lives of individuals and families.
• For more information and to submit your resume, send to kross@consumercredit.com

Join us in making a lasting impact on the financial health of our communities by becoming a part of ACCC’s Board of Directors.