MEET THE Team
Martha Villa
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Martha serves as the Executive Director of Enders Project Equal Access, Inc., where she spearheads strategic initiatives, oversees daily operations, and drives sustainable organizational growth. With extensive experience in leadership, program development, and resource development, Martha is dedicated to creating opportunities that promote equal access for underserved youth.
Her passion stems from personal experience. Growing up in a single-parent, low-income household, Martha faced barriers to pursuing extracurricular activities due to financial constraints and lack of transportation. Even in elementary school, she often had to forgo opportunities to develop talents and skills others recognized in her because they were simply out of reach. Later, in high school, she had to choose between basketball and track-ultimately giving up track her senior year, despite being a district medalist, so she could work and save for college. These experiences shaped her commitment to ensuring all young people have access to opportunities that nurture their potential and help them rise above their circumstances.
Martha holds a degree in Communications from Liberty University, completed a three-year Herbal Medicine program at Arborvitae School of Traditional Herbalism, and studied at the Nutritional Therapy Association. She is also Board Certified in Holistic Nutrition through the NANP, combining her diverse educational background with her leadership to support the whole development of the communities she serves.
Gail Gerzetic
BOARD CHAIR
Gail serves as the Board Chair for Enders Project Equal Access, Inc., bringing over 20 years experience of leadership in admissions and enrollment management to the Enders Project’s mission of providing scholarships and mentorship to underserved youth. Gail’s expertise in recruiting, retaining, and supporting diverse student populations has been instrumental in creating equitable opportunities.
As the Associate Director of Admissions at Cooke School and Institute, Gail has led strategic initiatives to expand visibility and access for prospective students while fostering relationships with families and industry partners. Her skills in communication, problem-solving, and organizational leadership has made her a dynamic advocate for equity no matter what socioeconomic status.
Gail earned a Master of Science in Criminal Justice from Monroe College and a Bachelor of Arts in Forensic Psychology from John Jay College of Criminal Justice. Her dedication to empowering underserved communities drives her leadership at Enders Project Equal Access, Inc., ensuring the organization’s impactful mission continues to thrive.
Carolyn Kwon
Board Secretary
Carolyn is a former Asst. Attorney-in-Charge at Legal Aid Society. She has extensive experience in Juvenile rights, child protection practices, and juvenile delinquency. As a board member, Carolyn offers strategic legal counsel, risk management insights, and governance expertise.
With a successful track record of supervising attorneys, leading internship programs, interviewing and advising children through difficult circumstances, and litigating many trials, Carolyn is committed to upholding ethical standards within the organization but also with our partnerships dealing with both operations and youth welfare while driving the organization’s mission forward.
Carolyn received her Juris Doctor from Hofstra University School of Law and was a LSPIN Recipient and studied Political Science at the University of Rochester.
Keely Ryder
Board Treasurer
Keely is a seasoned financial expert and the founder of Dolfin Partners. She has extensive experience in business development, analytics, and relationship management. With 9 years of experience in the financial sector, Keely has built a reputation for delivering innovative solutions and driving sustainable growth.
As a board member, Keely brings deep industry insights, strategic acumen, and a commitment to fostering organizational excellence from the ground up.
Keely is passionate about equal opportunity for all youth no matter what socioeconomic background they come from and has been volunteering with our nonprofit since 2017 before becoming a Board member.
Keely is a graduate of Fordham University.
Keely Ryder
Board Treasurer
Keely is a seasoned financial expert and the founder of Dolfin Partners. She has extensive experience in business development, analytics, and relationship management. With 9 years of experience in the financial sector, Keely has built a reputation for delivering innovative solutions and driving sustainable growth.
As a board member, Keely brings deep industry insights, strategic acumen, and a commitment to fostering organizational excellence from the ground up.
Keely is passionate about equal opportunity for all youth no matter what socioeconomic background they come from and has been volunteering with our nonprofit since 2017 before becoming a Board member.
Keely is a graduate of Fordham University.