Thank You to Our Outgoing Board Members
- director8494
- Mar 4
- 3 min read
Roslindale Village Main Street would like to thank our outgoing board members for their service to our organization and our community. We are grateful for their dedication and contributions to RVMS.
Laura Charles is a resident and business owner – co-owner of the beloved Substation and WorkHub. Laura’s talent and eye for what brings people together is unmatched. She served on the board from 2019-2026 and we are changed because of her giving. Through stepping in as interim Executive Director in 2021, she provided stability and a positive presence as the organization navigated our search for the next permanent ED. Laura’s gift for thoughtfully contributing to and driving conversations about equity, smart collaboration, and inclusivity and has always stood out in how she gives - we are a stronger board and community because of it.
Melissa Cording is a resident who served on the board from 2023-2026. Melissa began her time with RVMS as a volunteer on the Economic Development Committee before joining the board, where she boldly chaired the Fundraising Committee, bringing her background and experience in the nonprofit sector to take our fundraising strategy to the next level. Melissa’s time and talents energized us on the path to the annual Gala, surpassing fundraising goals each year, all while being driven by her favorite initiative: community. She is a passionate leader who inspired many to get involved. If you went to an 02131 Club event, you were met with Melissa’s enthusiasm and love for what we were building together.
John Freeman served on the board from 2020-2026. A business owner of Platt, Anderson Freeman Architects and a Roslindale resident, John served on the board as a member of the Fundraising Committee while lending his expertise to many projects and initiatives that called for intentional design and thoughtful consideration of community spaces. He brought his eye for design to the ongoing stewardship of Birch St. Plaza as a lively and welcoming community hub, and contributed meaningfully to how RVMS approaches many other public spaces that support a thriving Roslindale where all residents and visitors are considered. It was a reliable comfort and joy to see John at an RVMS event or community gathering - from the Tree Lighting and Holiday Market to marching alongside us in the Roslindale Day Parade.
We also want to give a big thank you to two board members who will be stepping down from their leadership roles but will remain on the board.
Carla Cornejo served as our Board Clerk and has been an invaluable member and chair of our Governance Committee. Her meticulous attention to detail and steady dedication shaped the way we operate — from strengthening our governance policies to building out onboarding and off-boarding procedures that will serve this organization for years to come. Carla's quiet thoroughness is the kind of contribution that doesn't always get the spotlight, but its impact is woven into everything we do. Thank you, Carla!
Courtney Pong served as our Board President from 2023 - 2026 and we are forever grateful for her leadership. A familiar and beloved face at RVMS and neighborhood events — often commanding the room as our emcee with an energy and stage presence that is entirely her own — Courtney leads with both boldness and heart. She guided us steadily and confidently through an Executive Director transition, never losing sight of the bigger picture. And if that weren't enough, she is the creative force behind The Rozzies, the community awards celebration she dreamed up and brought to life. Courtney's vision, her pride in this community, and her unwavering commitment to RVMS have shaped who we are — and who we are becoming. Thank you, Courtney!
We are so glad that Courtney and Carla will remain on our Board of Directors, and we thank them for their time and dedication in their leadership roles! Stay tuned as we welcome new members to our board – we look forward to introducing them to you!
