BOSTON — Commonwealth, a national nonprofit building financial security and opportunity for all through innovation and partnerships, has announced the addition of two accomplished leaders to its team. Michelle Carter and Brenda Velazquez have joined Commonwealth as Senior Vice Presidents, bringing with them a wealth of experience and expertise that will further enhance the organization’s mission.

Michelle Carter, in her role as Senior Vice President, will spearhead Commonwealth’s efforts in people, culture, and finance functions. With over a decade of experience in the nonprofit and education sector, Michelle has played a pivotal role in transforming the cultures of both small and large national organizations. She is a seasoned professional with a proven track record in Human Resources, collaborative leadership, change management, and systems thinking. Michelle is a dedicated diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging practitioner, focusing on advancing leaders of color into leadership roles and developing policies that address the needs of the most marginalized in the workforce. A proud AmeriCorps service alumna, Michelle holds a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Socioeconomic Justice from UNC Chapel Hill.

As a steadfast advocate and systems-builder, I seek opportunities to build bridges across lines of difference and strengthen organizational cultures. I bring a people-first lens to HR, policy design, and change management processes. I am excited to join the Commonwealth team and work alongside dedicated colleagues committed to building financial security and opportunity for financially vulnerable people.”

Michelle Carter, Senior Vice President

Brenda Velazquez, Senior Vice President, will advise Commonwealth on the development and tracking of metrics to measure outcomes and organizational impact, particularly in contributing to system change for communities living on low to moderate incomes. Previously serving as the Executive Director of Research at the NYC Mayor’s Office of Criminal Justice, Brenda has a proven record of utilizing data and research in collaboration with stakeholder partners to improve justice policies and implement community-centered public safety initiatives that enhance well-being for underserved populations. Her work has examined racial and gender disparities in justice policies and practices, measuring the impact of criminal justice programs and initiatives. Brenda, a National Science Foundation Fellow, holds a Doctorate in Criminology, Law, and Society, as well as a Masters in Social Ecology from the University of California, Irvine. She also earned her bachelor’s degree from New York University.

Throughout my career, I have utilized research and data to collaboratively solve for the collateral consequences of systemic inequities. I am thrilled to continue this journey with the dedicated team at Commonwealth, as we innovate and inform improved access to wealth-building opportunities and greater financial well-being for vulnerable populations.”

Brenda Velazquez, Senior Vice President