Leadership

CESI Staff

Erica Johnson, Executive Director (she / her / hers)
Erica has over 20 years’ experience in human services and healthcare programs. Before joining CESI in 2014, she directed community-based, non-profit, aging services in Boston. Erica holds a master’s degree from Boston University and received her undergraduate degree from George Washington University. In addition to her years of experience in aging services, Erica has directed programs in developmental disabilities and behavioral health services, as well as international health care program development. Erica is experienced in group facilitation, and fostering community partnerships. When not working she can be found chasing after her very energetic daughter and pup.

Michelle Holmberg, Chief Strategy Director (she / her / hers)
Michelle joined CESI in 2016 as the Program Director for our Concord Center. She has held different roles with progressive leadership responsibilities, and in 2023 was promoted to Chief Strategy Director. Michelle has her master’s in Community Social Psychology from the University of Massachusetts in Lowell. Her previous work focused on mental health education and suicide prevention, and workplace wellness and diversity, including LGBTQ cultural competency. Michelle has been a proud member of the Acton Council on Aging Board for several years. She is an experienced public speaker, trainer, and published author. Michelle loves a good story, singing in the car, and her favorite emoji is the flamenco dancer.

Gaby Justus, Director of Program Development (she / her / hers)
Gaby is the Director of Program Development at CESI, where she brings her unwavering passion for helping others to every initiative she leads. With a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice and a minor in Community Engagement, Gaby combines her academic background with her deep commitment to fostering healthier and happier communities. In her role at CESI, Gaby focuses on designing and implementing innovative programming that make a meaningful impact. Her expertise spans various aspects of program development, and she is dedicated to creating solutions that address the diverse needs of the populations CESI serves. Outside of her professional endeavors, Gaby enjoys baking and spending quality time with her dog, activities that bring balance to her busy schedule. An avid traveler, she finds inspiration in exploring new cultures and perspectives, which further enriches her approach to community engagement and program development.

Tony Dellovo, Chief of Philanthropic Investment (he / him / his)
Tony has over 10 years of experience working in philanthropic investment for mental health, food insecurity, equity in early childhood education and equitable services for older adults. Prior to joining CESI as a staff member, he served as a member of CESI’s Board of Directors since 2018. Tony’s excited for the future of adult day health and believes in the power of CESI. Also, he believes in the real power of older community members to help whole communities heal and grow together. When Tony’s not working, you can almost always find him at home or in the community with his two sons Fred and Charlie along with his wife, Sara, or reading one of the multiple books he typically reads at one time, because he can’t ever figure out what he’s in the mood for.

Angela Crawford, Operations Director (she / her / hers) Angela Crawford is the Operations Director at CESI, overseeing daily operations, strategic planning, and organizational development. With over 10 years of experience in healthcare operations, including visiting nurse and hospice services. She specializes in process improvement, HR management, and financial oversight. Angela plays a key role in optimizing systems, managing vendor relationships, and leading initiatives that support CESI’s mission. She holds a bachelor’s in business administration and a master’s in health information systems. Outside of work, she enjoys traveling abroad, spending time with her husband and four children, and unwinding with a good book.

Sophia Buonopane, Outreach Coordinator (she / her / hers)
As Outreach Coordinator, Sophia is dedicated to educating communities and partners on the importance of CESIs holistic approach in supporting the health and well-being of seniors and adults with medical or cognitive challenges. She holds a degree in Communication with a minor in Health Education and has hands-on experience supporting communities through her previous role as a Case Manager at Minuteman Senior Services, one of CESI’s key partners. Passionate about building connections and fostering impactful relationships, Sophia is committed to expanding CESI’s reach and ensuring meaningful engagement with those they serve. Outside of work, you can find Sophia at the beach, spending time with friends and family, or on a walk with her dog.

Board of Directors

For additional information on all Cooperative Elder Services, Inc. programming, please visit the following page: CESI Overview.

Cooperative Elder Services, Inc. holds tax-exempt status under Section 501(c)(3) of the U.S. Internal Revenue Service Code.
EIN: 04-2680168