The Young Professionals Committee serves as a responsible social and fundraising entity, with it’s dedicated members raising awareness and funds for the organization as active ambassadors. Since the committee’s inception in 2017, they have raised over $50,000 for the Foundation through semi-annual fundraising events, peer-to-peer campaigns, and social and corporate networking.
Young Professionals Committee
The Young Professionals Committee is a volunteer group of passionate and philanthropic professionals under the age of 40, most of whom live and work in Boston, but all of whom are dedicated to supporting the mission and vision of the Genesis Foundation for Children.
Meet the Committee Members
*Denotes Executive Leadership Position
Dermot Adelmann
Sales Representative
SOPHiA GENETICS
Joined 2022
“I was fortunate to learn about the Genesis Foundation through my colleague, Sarah Gill, and was immediately eager to join. I have long been passionate about supporting charitable organizations that build and foster communities in service of others. In my professional work, I help introduce software that enables clinicians to more accurately identify rare diseases, which has given me a window into the diagnostic journey of the patients we serve.”
Delaney Busch
Employment Associate
Mintz
Joined 2025
“I became interested in The Genesis Foundation following the loss of my daughter, as a result of medical complications two days after she was born. While in the hospital, my husband and I spoke with doctors, neurologists, and nurses about her chances of having physical and intellectual challenges and what that would mean for her and our family. When I discovered TGF, I knew I wanted to support an organization that provides opportunities and advocacy for children born with complex medical conditions, in addition to vital support for their families.”
Shanell Cartagena-Dopson
Admissions Consultant & Project Lead
Best Practice Solutions
Joined 2024
“I’ve been volunteering at events for The Genesis Foundation since 2021. I was first introduced to the Foundation by an employee and friend, but it was the mission and vision of the organization that I was immediately drawn to and resonated with. Children born with genetic disorders often face a lifetime of challenges from diagnosis to medical care, extending to many aspects of their lives. What is not often talked about is also how the experience can be stressful and demanding for parents and family members. My brother had severe cerebral palsy, and while this is not a genetic disorder, I connect on so many levels with the testimonials you hear from patient families at Genesis Foundation events. It is a privilege for me to now be on the other side, providing help and advocacy in any way I can.”
Laurenn DeDecko
Registered Nurse
Spaulding Hospital Cambridge
Joined 2024
“I learned about The Genesis Foundation through my friend and Young Professionals Committee member, Taylor Miller. As a registered nurse, my goal is always to contribute to positive patient outcomes. I believe that the Feingold method and its comprehensive, holistic approach is what makes a difference in a patient’s success. By joining the young professions committee, I look forward to collaborating with peers and serving the community in a different manner than that of my clinical practice. “
Cecilia Dolan
Senior Compliance Analyst
Access Advance LLC
Joined 2023
“As someone whose sibling lives with a rare genetic disorder, I grew up witnessing the myriad ways the world has failed children in the disabled community. The privilege to connect families in similar positions with not only medical support but access to a diverse set of resources that allows these kids to truly thrive is something I hold close to my heart. There is no greater mission than The Genesis Foundation’s devotion to providing comprehensive care to underserved children.”
Brennan Foley
Loan Officer
Blue Water Mortgage
Joined 2023
“My introduction to the Genesis Foundation was through a colleague and friend of mine. He showed me the philanthropic work being done through the Young Professionals Committee, and asked me to join in as he knew about my desire to be more involved within the community. The committee is an excellent opportunity to work with a group of people that share the passion of supporting others and making a difference in the lives of the people we assist. I feel humbled to join such a strong group, and look forward to the work we will do together.”
Sarah Gill
Corporate Strategy Associate
SOPHiA GENETICS
Joined 2023
“I was first introduced to The Genesis Foundation through my friend and fellow Young Professionals Committee member, Katie Nolan. Upon learning more about the great work the Foundation does, I could see that my impact-oriented drive and passion for advancing healthcare outcomes aligned with The Genesis Foundation’s goal to provide funding for programs for children born with rare diseases and genetic disorders, so I was eager to get more involved by joining the Young Professionals Committee. I am excited for the opportunity to support and work with such an impactful organization that is truly making a difference for so many children and families. “
Chris Holtsnider
Software Engineer
DellEMC
Joined 2019
“I joined The Genesis Foundation with the intention of giving back and assisting those who can’t assist themselves. We’re lucky to be able to be in a position to contribute and I look forward to the future of what we can accomplish!”
Katie James
Chief of Staff, Operations
Empassion
Joined 2023
“Having worked as a nurse with many patients and their families as they manage complex medical conditions, I’ve seen firsthand the challenges faced when navigating a such a diagnosis. When I learned about the Genesis foundation I was deeply moved by the work they do to bridge the gaps in our current healthcare system and the holistic view of those they serve.”
Justin Jordan
Internal Sales Director, US Retirement
John Hancock Retirement
Joined 2024
“Joining the Young Professionals Committee allows me to collaborate with like-minded individuals who are passionate about making a difference in the community. Together, we have the opportunity to drive positive change, support meaningful causes, and create a ripple effect of impact that extends far beyond our individual efforts. The Genesis Foundation’s commitment to driving change aligns with my values, and I am honored to be a part of an organization that is dedicated to making a tangible difference in the lives of others. Joining this committee is not just about volunteering time; it is about being a catalyst for change, fostering connections, and building a better future for all.”
Alexander Kacavas
Loan Officer
Blue Water Mortgage
Joined 2025
“I joined The Genesis Foundation because I believe in the power of community and our shared responsibility to care for those less fortunate. I’m honored to be part of an organization that is making a tangible difference, and I look forward to contributing to their continued success.”
Tim Loehr*
Director, Eastern US
PenChecks Trust
Joined 2020
“I’ve always loved children and now that I have two of my own that love has multiplied. I have a special place in my heart for kids with genetic disorders and I feel that becoming involved with the Foundation’s Young Professionals Executive Committee is a great way to do my part in supporting these children through such a fine organization. I look forward to being part of making a difference in their lives.”
Taylor Miller
Regional Sales Manager
Cortex at Palo Alto Networks
Joined 2022
“The Genesis Foundation’s mission is one that is very personal to me. My decision to join the Young Professionals Committee was a quick and easy one, for I firmly value all that they strive to do. I feel so fortunate to have the opportunity to be a part of something so significant, and I look forward to contributing in any way that I can, to better the difficult situations these individuals and families face every day.”
Katie Nolan
Life Sciences Consultant
Putnam
Joined 2023
“I was first exposed to the Genesis Foundation a few years ago by a friend who felt the organization aligned with my passion for advancing healthcare. I was lucky enough to attend events and hear the stories of patients and caregivers which drove my desire to get involved. I am excited for the opportunity to not only support companies developing treatments for rare diseases in my career, but also work with an organization that provides much-needed support for these patients.”
Declan Shreenan*
Financial Advisor
Northwestern Mutual
Joined 2o22
“I believe it is the duty of any budding young professional to have philanthropic involvement in their surrounding community, especially a community as tight knit as the one we have here in New England. I think there’s a lot of symmetry in the values that we, as New Englanders, grow up on. I felt that getting involved with The Genesis Foundation was a perfect fit because of it’s roots here in Boston, and the undeniably special cause it aims to bring light & resources to.”
Chris Speer
Head of Collective Investment Trust Distribution
Reliance Trust
Joined 2021
“I joined this committee after hearing the story and tribulations of one of the Feingold Center’s patients and hearing how tremendous The Genesis Foundation has been towards her family. I look forward to joining this cause and continuing to support the amazing work being done by this organization!”
Jonathan Spillane*
Legal Counsel
Boston Planning & Development Agency
Joined 2017
“The Genesis Foundation is more than an organization, it is an opportunity. An opportunity to engage in meaningful work, an opportunity to meet amazing people, and an opportunity to grow yourself as a person. My time on The Genesis Foundation has afforded these opportunities and without hesitation, I encourage all those interested in joining us. For you can never do a kindness too soon, for you never know how soon it will be too late.”
Alex Stulac
Marketing Strategist/Principal Owner
Stulac
Joined 2017
“The Genesis Foundation employs a unique approach. Whether you’re a patient, board member or volunteer, or an attendee at an event, you’re considered family. This Foundation has grown and continues to accelerate its growth through the construction of an embracive and loving environment for anyone who crosses its path. I look forward to the development of our Young Professional networking events into a well-recognized series that not only benefits The Genesis Foundation brand but all young professionals in the Boston area as well.”
Gabrielle Waxenberg
Founder & CEO
The Waxenberg Agency
Joined 2024
“I joined the Young Professionals Committee with a genuine desire to connect, collaborate, and contribute to a vibrant community of like-minded individuals. This platform not only offers an opportunity for professional growth but also aligns with my passion for making a positive impact. I am particularly excited about the committee’s focus on helping children, as it provides a meaningful avenue to channel our collective energy toward initiatives that make a difference in the lives of young ones. Together, we can foster a supportive community while actively contributing to the well-being of children in need.”
Committee Chair: Jonathan Spillane
Vice Chair: Tim Loehr
Membership Chair: Declan Shreenan