With more than twenty years of progressive human resources experience in the human services field, Janine has a passion for helping organizations create a culture of engagement and belonging. In her current role, Janine is responsible for developing and implementing HR strategies that align with Advocates’ mission and vision. She works closely with the CEO, CDEIBO, and senior leaders to attract, develop, and retain top talent; promote diversity, equity, and inclusion; and foster a positive work environment for all staff. Janine is the executive sponsor for the Black & Brown ERG and chairs several internal committees geared towards engaging, recognizing, and developing staff.
Janine is also an active member of her community, where she volunteers her time and expertise to various organizations. She serves on the Sudbury Diversity, Equity & Inclusion commission; is on the Steering Committee of the Racial Climate Task Force for Lincoln-Sudbury Regional High School and is a board member of the Norman McNeil Family Foundation–a family-run foundation focused on promoting pre-school education in the rural communities of Trinidad and Tobago. She also sits on the Governance committee of the Newton Food Pantry where she helps to provide supplemental food and personal care items to community members in need.
Janine is known for her exceptional leadership skills, her ability to build strong relationships with employees and stakeholders, and her dedication to making a positive impact in the community. Recently, Janine was celebrated as a 2023 Black Excellence on the Hill honoree at a ceremony hosted by the Massachusetts Black & Latino Legislative Caucus. The event commemorates Black community leaders and trailblazers who are moving the needle forward in their communities. She was nominated by Representative Carmine Gentile of the 13th Middlesex District.
Janine holds a master’s degree in Management from Emmanuel College and a Bachelor of Science in business administration from Boston University. She is also a dually certified human resources professional (SPHR and SHRM-SCP) and a certified Employee Engagement Specialist. She serves on the Framingham State University advisory board for their Master of Human Resources degree program; is the chair of the HR committee for the Association for Behavioral Healthcare; and is a member of the Training & Conferences committee for the Association of Development Disabilities Providers.
In her free time, Janine enjoys spending time with family and friends, spoiling her fur baby, and traveling. She currently resides in Sudbury, MA with her husband, Kemo, and their three children.
