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Doug Bratton

Chief Executive Officer| DBratton@pipnj.org

Doug Bratton has served Partners in Prevention for the past 15 years, the last 13 in executive leadership. He has worked in the prevention field in a variety of capacities over the past 30 years, including director of New Jersey’s statewide Teen Institute, lead trainer for New Jersey’s youth tobacco prevention program REBEL, a speaker/trainer/teacher, and a grant writer.

He is a proud father who loves baseball, coaching, comics, writing, the Auburn Tigers, and the University of Delaware Blue Hens. In another life, Doug has been a syndicated newspaper and magazine cartoonist, comic book writer, and author.

Ayla Bower

Chief Operations Officer | ABower@pipnj.org

Ayla Bower is the Chief Operations Officer working with PIP’s outstanding teams to bring incredible programs and services to the Hudson County community. With over 15 years of experience in prevention work, community engagement and leadership development, Ayla is committed to improving overall community wellness and fostering lasting change through innovative and engaging strategies.

Always seeking solutions and embracing new ideas, Ayla believes in the power of collaboration and continuous learning. Outside of work, Ayla can be found exploring the outdoors – hiking, gardening, and soaking up nature through adventure!

Khadijah Santos

Chief Financial Officer | KSantos@pipnj.org

Khadijah Santos is the Chief Financial Officer works with Partners in Prevention by overseeing all financial, accounting and Human resources day to day operations. Khadijah holds the work PIP does for the community close to her heart. Khadijah servers on nonprofit boards in Hudson county to help support community outreach and leadership.

Khadijah has supported Partners in Prevention by continuing to ensure compliance with local, state and federal regulations and guidelines. Khadijah has over 20 years of finance and accounting experience. Khadijah has attended Rutgers University and New Jersey City University receiving a Bachelor degree in Finance and a certification in Human Resource management.

Mark Bylancik

Chief Administrative Officer | MBylancik@pipnj.org

Mark joined Partners in Prevention in 2019, and has served as the agency’s chief administrative officer since 2023. Covering everything from tech support and office management to development and communications, Mark and his team enjoy working with every department on a variety of projects. Above all else, Mark believes in supporting good people doing good things for others, and gets the chance to do so every day at PIP.

Mark holds a B.A. in Contemporary Arts: Professional Communication from Ramapo College and an M.A. in Public and Organizational Relations from Montclair State University. In his spare time he teaches public speaking at MSU, enjoys movies and games, and spends time at home with his wife and their cat.

Pam Presinal

NJ4S Assistant Hub Director | PPresinal@pipnj.org

Pam Presinal is the NJ4S Assistant Hub Director for Partners in Prevention, where she plans to execute a variety of goals and visions for her team. She was born and raised in Hudson County, thus being relatable and part of the communities we serve. Pam believes that prevention education to those of all ages should be fun, engaging and meaningful. Graduating from William Paterson University, where she pursued a bachelor’s degree of Science in Public Health and a minor in Economics, has impacted the quality of her life on a multitude of levels. She has gained experience throughout the nonprofit world, exercising her passion, enthusiasm, and knowledge in several communities and municipalities across New Jersey.

Being adaptable to change and empathetic with individuals from all backgrounds, provides a platform where Pam can reach all types of people on an elevated, profound scale. With her various contacts and work relationships with individuals from an array of sectors, forming new connections and experiences comes with ease. Throughout her career with Partners in Prevention, Pam has participated in other departments to gain knowledge, skills and to provide support for her fellow colleagues. As an Educator, she has taken on projects and ownership of responsibilities in order to aim high and achieve strides with her team. As a new Supervisor, she provides a fresh, motivating passion that is only going to grow and encourage others to do the same.

Irakli Kakauridze, DHSc, MPH

NJ4S Hub Director | IKakauridze@pipnj.org

Dr. Irakli Kakauridze, known as Eric, is the NJ4S Hub Director for Hudson County and a dedicated public health professional with nearly a decade of experience. He holds a Doctorate in Health Sciences and a master’s in Public Health. Dr. Kakauridze believes that public health is vital for building healthy communities and preventing disease, particularly among vulnerable populations. With a strong commitment to empowering youth, he advocates for their voices in prevention initiatives, especially in the realm of mental health. His passion for improving youth mental health outcomes drives his work and inspires those around him.

In his role at the NJ4S Hub, Dr. Kakauridze aims to create supportive environments that foster resilience and well-being among young people in the community. Outside of his professional endeavors, he enjoys staying active, traveling, and spending quality time with his family.

Rachel Taylor, MA, MT-BC

Lindsey Meyer Teen Institute Supervisor | RTaylor@pipnj.org

Rachel is a proud product of the Lindsey Meyer Teen Institute (Alumni ’09)! They have been a full-time staff member with LMTI & PIP since 2016 and are currently supervising the LMTI department. She is a Board-Certified Music Therapist and holds a Bachelor’s in Music Therapy as well as a Master’s in Public and Organizational Relations from Montclair State University.

Rachel believes that prevention education (and all education) is most effective when audiences are engaged in creative and meaningful ways. Because of this, she aims to bring a little bit of fun to everything she facilitates! Outside of work, Rachel enjoys making music, reading, watching entirely too much tv, and hanging out with her pets.

Anthony Menafro, CPS

Coalition Supervisor | AMenafro@pipnj.org

 Anthony Menafro is the Coalition Supervisor for the Hudson County Coalition, a group of individuals working to combat substance abuse and misuse within the county. Being a life-long Hudson County resident, Anthony has a lot of passion and love for his community. Anthony knows that the work being done in Hudson County has true impact based on the ongoing research initiatives that provide proof that Partners in Prevention does incredible, effective work. With a love for research and data, this has always been a major focus of assessing the agency and its respective initiatives for success and what changes need to be made to continue to improve the community.

Anthony is Prevention Specialist certified as of 2020 and has worked within the prevention field for over five years. Anthony holds a Bachelors degree in Public Health & Psychology from William Paterson University where he worked on and had work published, focusing on substances and public health. He is also in progress of obtaining his Masters degree from Rutgers University in order to gain more skills and knowledge to assist the agency and community as a whole.

Natasha Athab, MSc

Assistant Coalition Supervisor | NAthab@pipnj.org

Natasha is the Coalition Coordinator for the Hudson County Coalition. Her background pushed her to pursue a career in the public sector with goals of influencing and developing lasting impacts in the community. Her interest in the field of public service began while completing her bachelor’s degree at De La Salle University Manila; she worked with several non-profit organizations based in the Philippines. In 2021, Natasha completed her Master’s Degree in Global Affairs with New York University with a specialization on the United Nations. This enhanced her awareness and commitment to coalition building.

During her spare time, Natasha loves to maintain an active lifestyle, bake cookies, and enjoy a good cup of coffee in cozy cafes.

Graziella Baccarella

Senior Finance & Benefits Coordinator | GBacarella@pipnj.org

Graziella is the Finance & Benefits Coordinator at Partners in Prevention.

Graziella works diligently with the finance team on managing the financial aspects of all county, state and federal grants. She also manages and oversees the employee benefits at PIP. She brings over 15 years of experience in the Finance & Benefits field and is excited to partner with such an amazing team in helping educate the members of the Hudson County community.

Graziella holds a Masters in Business Administration from St. Peter’s University and a Bachelors degree in Business Management with a minor in Marketing from Quinnipiac University, where she graduated cum laude at both universities.

Graziella enjoys traveling, staying active and spending lots of time with her family. Along with her husband and two children, they love seeking out the best pizza spots on the East Coast.

Aaron Baldwin

Coalition Coordinator | ABaldwin@pipnj.org

Aaron joined Partners in Prevention in 2021 and serves as a Coalition Coordinator. He believes in communication that seeks understanding.

Prior to this role, Aaron served more than a decade in the areas of education and collegiate athletics. He is passionate about connecting and contributing to communities through focused action that comes from research, thoughtful dialogue, and respect. He is looking forward to partnering with communities to improve health in Hudson County.

Aaron holds a Master of Arts in Philosophy & Education from Teachers College, Columbia University. He wrote his thesis on the Attributes and Dynamics of Mentoring. An avid runner, he enjoys traveling the country to participate in races and take in local sites. He also enjoys food, cinema, the great outdoors, and spending time with his family.

Estrella Borrego

Education Supervisor | EBorrego@pipnj.org

Estrella Borrego is the Education Supervisor who works with individuals of all ages in Hudson County by providing substance abuse prevention education programming. Estrella believes respecting the community you serve allows you to have the necessary resources that will help them lead healthy lives and make positive choices. Estrella has worked diligently at building relationships with schools, and other agencies throughout Hudson County whose mission, goals, and objectives align with Partners in Prevention. Estrella holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Public Health Education from New Jersey City University.

Caitlin Bradley

Program Coordinator | CBradley@pipnj.org

Caitlin is a Program Coordinator with the Lindsey Meyer Training Institute. She obtained her bachelor’s in Women & Gender studies from The College of New Jersey in 2015. Since then, she has helmed youth leadership and development programs throughout New Jersey. She has authored curriculum focused on anti-bullying, sexual health, peer education, and a multitude of other socially conscious initiatives. She has experience working with children, teens, and adults in at risk communities, as well as both public and private educational institutions. 

Through youth leadership and social/emotional learning she hopes to foster confidence, kindness, and healthy decision making skills in young people so they may have a part in building a better world.

Gabrielle Brown

Accounts Manager | GBrown@pipnj.org

She is detail-oriented with 7 years of experience managing accounts payable and receivable, reconciling bank statements, and preparing financial statements. She is very proud to be a part of PIP as prevention is a topic near to her heart.

Kira Chontow, MSW

Assistant Director of Innovative Programming | KChontow@pipnj.org

Kira is the Assistant Supervisor for the Lindsey Meyer Teen Institute. She loves working with youth to help cultivate their passions and excitement to be leaders. Her favorite part of working with LMTI is how versatile the work is, she enjoys getting to talk with people from all across the state on a wide variety of topics to help support their growth!

Kira is a current PhD student in Family Science and Human Development. She loves using her education to help enhance the programs she creates, and while presenting to youth and adults on the topics of mental health and wellness.

Corey Donetz

Training Director | CDonetz@pipnj.org

Corey Donetz is a Training Director who works with youth and young adults to help them enhance and develop their leadership skills, as well becoming more knowledgeable in the field of alcohol, tobacco, and other drug prevention. Corey strongly believes in empowering and advocating for youth. Throughout his career, Corey has presented and led workshops for groups as small as a handful and as many as as several hundred.

Corey is a certified New Jersey School Counselor and holds a Master’s Degree in Counseling from Montclair State University as well as a Bachelor’s Degree in Communications from Rider University.

Exau Ferruzola

Senior Prevention Educator | EFerruzola@pipnj.org

Exau Ferruzola is a Senior Prevention Educator for Partners in Prevention who works with individuals of all age groups in Hudson County, educating them on substance abuse prevention.

Exau was born and raised in Hudson County in West New York, New Jersey. He has a strong passion to give back to the community that gave him a place he calls home. Growing up, Exau says he did not have the tools and knowledge that is available to individuals today to make the right decision towards substance abuse. He feels that it is his goal to become a leader in his community in providing information and assistance on this topic in order to make a difference to others. Exau has a family growing up in West New York, so this particular goal really hits home for him.

Exau has earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Public Health from Rutgers University-New Brunswick, and plans to work towards pursuing his Master’s degree.

Erick Gonzalez

Prevention Educator | EGonzalez@pipnj.org

Erick Gonzalez serves as a Prevention Educator at Partners in Prevention, where he dedicates himself to educating individuals of all ages on substance abuse prevention and mental health.

Hailing from Roselle, NJ, his hometown serves as a significant source of motivation for him and his work. Growing up, he experienced a lack of guidance, which was a common struggle for many young people in his community. This personal experience fuels his determination to assist both young individuals and elders in making healthy decisions and providing them with valuable information that may not have been previously accessible or prioritized. His ultimate objective is to empower individuals to make informed decisions that will benefit them in the long run, rather than just in the present moment.

Erick holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from William Paterson University, and while he plans to pursue a master’s degree in the future, he understands the importance of taking things one day at a time.

Dana Jaloudi

NJ4S Supervising Consultant  | DJaloudi@pipnj.org

Dana Jaloudi serves as an NJ4S Supervising Consultant at Partners in Prevention, where she dedicates herself to educating individuals of all ages on matters pertaining to mental health and substance abuse prevention.

As a native of Hudson County, Dana takes great pride in contributing to the well-being of her community. Her passion for prevention education has been a driving force throughout her career. She firmly believes that through knowledge and comprehensive education, communities can effectively overcome the challenges posed by mental health issues and substance misuse. Dana is committed to utilizing her professional expertise to empower others in making informed, positive choices that enhance their present and future well-being.

Dana holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Public Health and is currently pursuing her Masters in Public Health, further enriching her capacity to address public health challenges with depth and expertise.

Raquel Jean-Baptiste, MPH

Coalition Coordinator | RJeanBaptiste@pipnj.org

I’ve always known I wanted to be in the field of helping others and making an impact in a community setting. Throughout my time in school, I started learning more about what that meant and how I could be part of it. Coalition work gives me the opportunity to work with others in similar fields so that we can all come together to achieve a common goal.

I earned my Bachelor of Science in Public Health from William Paterson in 2018 and received my Master’s of Public Health with a concentration in Epidemiology in May of 2022.

Madie Jones

Senior Program Coordinator | MJones@pipnj.org

Madie Jones is the Senior Program Coordinator with the Lindsey Meyer Teen Institute, working with youth to show them their leadership potential. Madie believes all youth should know their power and ability to create positive change, as well as recognize the greatness inside themselves. Madie has been involved with the organization since they first attended the summer leadership conference as a participant in 2015. They have experienced LMTI as a youth council member, a college age staff member, an advisor, an intern, and more!

Madie graduated from Montclair State University with a Bachelor’s in Theatre Studies. They are QPR Gatekeeper trained and certified as a Youth Mental Health First Aid trainer. Madie has been working professionally for several years with a diverse group of youth of all ages.

Courtney Lichtenberger

Director of Employee Relations & Engagement | Courtney@pipnj.org

Courtney joined Partners in Prevention in 2020 and serves as the Office Manager/Executive & Grants Administrator. Born and raised in Hudson County, Courtney is deeply committed to giving back to her community. She is the first line of communication for the office, from community referrals to event coordination, and enjoys supporting all aspects of PIP’s services.

Courtney holds a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science from Ramapo College and a Graduate Certificate in Human Resource Management from Southern New Hampshire University. She is currently pursuing her M.S. in Organizational Leadership. In her free time, Courtney enjoys being outdoors and exploring nature.

Ryan Teddy Palmer, MA

Communications Specialist | RPalmer@pipnj.org

Ryan is the Communications Specialist who works with the various programs and departments at Partners in Prevention. He uses his communication and design skills to help share the stories and mission of the agency to better support the communities it serves.

Ryan’s passion for prevention began back in 2009 when he attended the Lindsey Meyer Teen Institute’s Summer Leadership Conference and later became an Executive Member of his high school’s Student Prevention Education League.

Ryan holds a Masters in Communication from Kean University and a Bachelors degree in Journalism & Media Studies from Rutgers University.

Alex Parra

Scheduling Coordinator | AParra@pipnj.org

Alex is a Scheduling Coordinator who coordinates with Hudson County schools and partner agencies.

Alex believes in the importance of supporting and creating opportunities for young people to grow. In his spare time, he can usually be found hanging out with his beloved dachshund.

Alex holds a Bachelors degree in Sociology with a minor in Psychology from Rutgers University.

Christina Perez, MA

Prevention Educator | CPerez@pipnj.org

Christina Perez is a Prevention Educator for Partners in Prevention. She works throughout Hudson County spreading awareness and educating individuals of various ages on substance abuse prevention.

Christina was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York and came to Hudson County during the beginning of high school. Throughout her years of residing and learning in different communities, in and outside of Hudson County, Christina adapted the mindset that we become the best versions of ourselves when our mental health is in good standing. Sometimes this means we need to learn from and lean on one another for guidance and support. Her goal is to help others live a healthier lifestyle by making positive choices. After teaching in several schools across Hudson County, Christina further possesses a passion to give back, serve, and reach anyone in her path.

Christina has earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from New Jersey City University as well as her Master of Arts degree, specializing in Human Behavior and Organizational Psychology, from Kean University. Throughout her undergraduate and graduate studies, Christina saw first hand that there is always something new to learn! In the future, Christina hopes to obtain her Psy.D and continue outreaching in the realm of mental health and wellness.

Michelle Quintero

Prevention Educator | MQuintero@pipnj.org

Michelle is a Prevention Educator at Partners in Prevention who holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Montclair State University. She’s deeply committed to fostering a nurturing environment where individuals of all ages feel validated and empowered to learn and grow. Michelle believes in the importance of addressing contemporary issues and creating safe spaces for learning.

With empathy, Michelle validates experiences and provides accurate guidance, ensuring everyone feels supported on their educational journey. Throughout her career, she’s dedicated to creating inclusive learning environments fostering personal growth.

Ella Ramos

Program Coordinator | MRamos@pipnj.org

Since a young age she has been part of peer leadership groups here in New Jersey which have shaped her into who she is today! She was born and raised in Hudson County and growing up in this community and being familiar with its needs she believes she can deliver empowering workshops and fun creative events to students within the community. She believes all voices are important and that the youth needs to be seen and heard!

Mariela holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Public Health Education from New Jersey City University.

Fun Fact: She is an artist and hopes to share positivity, affirmations, knowledge and awareness with the community through her art. 

Natasha Santana

Assistant Education Supervisor | NSantana@pipnj.org

Natasha Santana is a Assistant Education Supervisor for Partners in Prevention, who works with individuals from youth to older adults by educating them on substance use & abuse prevention

As an undergraduate student, Natasha’s passion for public health grew as a researcher and peer health educator on substance use/abuse prevention. Through her experience and research, she realized the effects the alcohol and drug epidemic were having throughout her community. It led her to want to be a leader of change and create a difference in the community to prevent substance use/abuse disorders.

Natasha obtained a Bachelor’s of Science in Public Health with a concentration in Health Education from William Paterson University and plans to pursue a Master’s degree.

Tegan Stuart, MPH, CHES

Program Coordinator | TStuart@pipnj.org

Tegan is a Program Coordinator with the Lindsey Meyer Teen Institute, specializing in tobacco prevention and youth involvement in the NJ4S grant. They have a passion for health literacy and are looking for creative ways to tackle health disparities. Tegan earned their Bachelors in Science in Allied Health Sciences from Saint Mary’s College of California and a Masters in Public Health from Columbia University. In addition to this, they are a Certified Health Education Specialist.

Tegan constantly strives to join their passion for art and storytelling with their passion for health equity and education. A fun fact about them: they have interned with three incredible NGOs prior to completing their higher education (Women’s Earth Alliance, the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, and the Oregon Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence). You could say the nonprofit world feels like home!

Aranxa Zapata

Prevention Educator | AZapata@pipnj.org

Aranxa Zapata is a Prevention Educator at Partners in Prevention who works with individuals of all ages by educating them on substance abuse prevention. During her undergraduate studies Aranxa encountered her passion for greater education within communities. Her experience in different schools has helped her realize this passion. Aranxa believes prevention education is extremely valuable for individuals of all ages.

Her goal is to educate and guide students in being great members of society with healthy values and choices. Aranxa obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and Early Childhood Education from CUNY Hunter College. She is also a certified teacher in New York State. She has plans of pursuing her Master’s degree in the near future.

Isabelle Campbell

Scheduling Coordinator | ICampbell@pipnj.org

Isabelle is a Scheduling Coordinator who coordinates with Hudson County schools and partner agencies. She loves connecting and collaborating with people from all over. Isabelle believes in advocating for the youth and finding ways she can help. She is thrilled to be part of the Partners in Prevention team.

Isabelle is also an actor who frequently enjoys acting in short films, feature films, and occasionally works as a background actor. You can catch a glimpse of Isabelle during a Gym class scene from the Mean Girls Movie Musical (2024)!

Isabelle received her Bachelors Degree in Media Production and Marketing with a minor in Theater from Manhattan College.

Jennifer Arreaga

Prevention Educator | JArreaga@pipnj.org

Jennifer is a Prevention Educator at Partners in Prevention, holding a Bachelor of Science in Public Health with a concentration in Community Health Education from Montclair State University. With a strong commitment to empowering communities, Jennifer creates inclusive learning spaces where individuals feel heard and motivated to grow.

Jennifer blends empathy with expertise to support individuals at every step of their educational journey. Her real-life experience includes tutoring young students, health program planning, and bilingual communication, all contributing to fostering environments that promote wellness, personal growth, and community resilience.