Our Team
Dr. Chandra Richardson
Executive Director
Dr. Chandra Richardson is a dynamic leader and dedicated advocate for educational and community empowerment. She hails from the vibrant city of New Orleans, Louisiana. With over 15 years of experience in higher education and a decade of impactful service in non-profit and community leadership, Chandra has established herself as a transformative force in her community.
Chandra’s passion for education began early in her career when she recognized the profound impact that access to quality education can have on individuals and their families. Throughout her tenure in higher education, she has held various roles that have allowed her to mentor students, develop innovative programs, and forge partnerships that enhance educational opportunities for underrepresented populations.
Jan Martino
Programs - Lakeshore
Jan is a native New Orleanian whose education was impacted by the Sisters of St. Joseph from first grade through high school. After graduating from Loyola University, Jan taught in the secondary school sector for 5 years at Archbishop Shaw High School.
She has been in the direct selling industry for 40 years and has served as Assistant Director for People Program from 2008 to 2021.
Jan has been married for 47 years and has 2 sons and 3 grandchildren. She is committed to the Congregation of St. Joseph’s charism of unity and inclusive love. The People Program community is forever in her heart.
Phyllis Waiters
Programs - Westbank
Phyllis serves as People Program’s Westbank Coordinator — engaging students, instructors and the community where she has lived for the last 15 years.
Prior to People Program, she worked in the customer service field for both banking and communications for over 40+ years. She is known for her expertise in presenting to groups, which is enhanced by her friendly nature.
Phyllis has a deep appreciation for community service and volunteerism. After her initial retirement, she decided to make “service to others” a major part of her Christian life.
Originally from Charlotte, N.C., she has 3 daughters, and 2 granddaughters. She is thrilled and ecstatic to be a part of People Program’s family!
Meg Cahill
Chair • 2023-2026
Board of Directors
Danette Murret
Vice Chair & Treasurer
2023-2026
Toni Newton
Secretary • 2023-2026
Helen Young
Immediate Past Chair
Anna Arshad
2023-2026
Rickey Brown
2024-2027
Kim B. Hypolite
2024-2027
John Jackson
2023-2026
Carolyn Johnson
2023-2026
Sue Johnson
2025-2028
Vernon Riley
2024-2027
Ann Sayas
2023-2026
Pat Smith
2024 -2027