Our Team – New Covenant Center
Betsy López Director, New Covenant Center
Betsy López has been a cornerstone of New Covenant Center since 2010, when she joined as Program Coordinator after retiring from her role as an Automation Specialist at the United States District Court. Her move into nonprofit service marked the beginning of a new chapter centered on community impact and operational excellence.
In 2015, Betsy played an instrumental role in the successful relocation of New Covenant Center to its current facility on Stamford’s West Side. Her leadership during this transition earned her a promotion to Senior Program Operations Manager, followed by a 2023 advancement to Assistant Director of Facility Operations, overseeing critical infrastructure and logistics for the Center’s expanding programs.
Now appointed Director, Betsy embodies Catholic Charities’ commitment to promoting from within and fostering a culture of teamwork and trust. She leads a seven-day-a-week food insecurity operation that became a vital community lifeline during the COVID-19 pandemic, establishing New Covenant Center as the leading provider of daily meals and groceries in Stamford.
Respected across all levels of leadership, Betsy is a trusted partner to community organizations, vendors, government agencies, and supporters. Her leadership continues to strengthen New Covenant Center’s mission of compassion, dignity, and service.
“I believe in leading with heart and purpose. Every meal we serve is a reminder that dignity and hope begin with the simplest acts of kindness.”
— Betsy López
John Gutman Director of Stamford Area Programs
John Gutman has served Catholic Charities of Fairfield County for more than a decade as Executive Director of New Covenant Center (NCC). In July 2022, he assumed an additional role as Director of Stamford Area Programs, providing leadership and oversight for Catholic Charities’ services throughout the region.
As of September 2025, John passed the role of NCC Director to Betsy López, continuing to guide and support the team during this exciting transition. He remains responsible for all development efforts at NCC, including fundraising for the organization’s new East Side facility, expected to open in mid-2026.
John’s steady leadership, deep understanding of community needs, and passion for service have been instrumental in shaping NCC’s growth and long-term sustainability.
Raphael Hilaire Food Pantry Coordinator
Raphael Hilaire has served at New Covenant Center since 2008, bringing with him a diverse background in education, finance, and public service. His previous roles include positions with Stamford Public Schools, Oppenheimer & Co., and the Connecticut Department of Children and Families. Before immigrating to the United States, Raphael led an EU-funded agricultural program in Haiti.
He holds an MBA in Finance from Sacred Heart University and degrees in economics and statistics from institutions in Haiti.
In addition to managing the Food Pantry, Raphael also serves as the chef for Saturday lunch and dinner services. Known for his creativity in the kitchen, organizational skill, and calm demeanor, he is highly respected by volunteers for making every shift a welcoming, purposeful experience.
Teazia Vincent Volunteer Coordinator
Teazia Vincent joined New Covenant Center in February 2024 as Volunteer Coordinator, working closely with individuals and groups throughout Stamford and surrounding communities to connect them with meaningful opportunities to serve. Today, more than 600 volunteers help sustain the Center’s daily Soup Kitchen/Café, Food Pantry, and essential human services.
With over a decade of nonprofit experience—including early childhood education, program support, and volunteer leadership—Teazia brings both expertise and empathy to her role.
“I believe that when people come together to serve, they not only uplift others—they transform themselves.”
— Teazia Vincent
If you’re interested in volunteering, please contact Teazia at [email protected].
Ivette Gonzalez Case Manager
Ivette Gonzalez joined New Covenant Center in 2022 as a Case Manager, bringing more than 25 years of experience in social services and HIV prevention. Her career includes impactful work with both the City of Stamford and New York City, where she has remained deeply dedicated to advocating for individuals in need and connecting them to essential care and resources.
“I believe everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and compassion, especially when they’re facing life’s toughest challenges.”
— Ivette Gonzalez