Press Release

LBFE Boston Board of Directors Appoints New Executive Director

March 20, 2024

Longstanding and key senior leader at LBFE, Cynthia Wilkerson, to lead the organization

Boston, MA March 20, 2024 – The Board of Directors of LBFE Boston, a nonprofit organization focused on relieving isolation and loneliness in older adults, announced today the appointment of Cynthia Wilkerson to Executive Director effective as of March 25th, 2024.

 Upon the resignation of former Executive Director Nikki Shults in November of 2023, the Board’s Executive Search Committee, led by Board President Kristen Mann, commenced a comprehensive, equitable search working with A3 Search Firm’s Anna Asphar.

“Having served as LBFE’s Program Director for the past 6 years, Cynthia’s achievements at LBFE proved to be immeasurable, leading to a unanimous Board decision to appoint Cynthia to Executive Director,” said Kristen Mann, Board President. “We are confident that Cynthia’s energy, creativity, and breadth of perspective will continue to drive LBFE’s strategic plan forward.”

Cynthia brings more than 20 years of nonprofit experience to the role. Since joining LBFE Boston in 2015, Cynthia has led the organization’s program design and evaluation efforts and its embrace of intergenerational programs. Cynthia is currently an inaugural Eisner Prize Fellow, developing Gen2GenQ, an LGBTQIA+ intergenerational network.

“Since 1979, LBFE Boston has been committed to its mission of alleviating loneliness among older adults. Now more than ever, we see the devastating effects of social isolation for people of all ages,” says Cynthia. “Through intergenerational engagement, technology access, and arts programs, LBFE Boston is working to mend our social network by creating opportunities for neighbors to become friends.”

As Executive Director, Cynthia will work closely with the Board of Directors in fulfilling LBFE’s mission, providing strategic leadership and identifying new areas of growth for the organization. According to Cynthia, “In the coming months, LBFE Boston will be expanding our core programs, CitySites, Digital Dividends, and Creative Connections; deepening our current partnerships; and inviting new friends into the age-friendly community we are building across Boston.”

About LBFE Boston: Since 1979 LBFE Boston’s nonprofit mission has been to help relieve isolation and loneliness among older neighbors. By connecting residents of affordable & public housing with local college students, we facilitate lasting intergenerational friendships through weekly social, educational, creative, and technology access & digital literacy programs. Learn more about our mission and join the LBFE Boston community at www.lbfeboston.org.