Our Team – New Covenant Center
Executive Director
John Gutman
John Gutman has been Executive Director of New Covenant Center since November, 2014. He oversees a staff of 10 full-time and four part-time, along with 500 volunteers, that feed and provide other social services to 4,750 individuals each year. John has overall responsibility for the 365-day operation and works with his 12-person Advisory Council to raise over $1,300,000 annually to continue providing the programs and services required to help put New Covenant’s guests and clients on a better path. John has held marketing and intellectual property management positions at the National Basketball Association, NBC and King Broadcasting. He started volunteering with his family at New Covenant in 2003.
Contact: [email protected]
____________________________________________________________________________
Assistant Director
Betsy López
Betsy Lopez is the Assistant Director, head of Program Operations who is responsible for the smooth and orderly function of New Covenant Center’s daily operations. She is directly accountable for all kitchen food purchasing, office and maintenance supply ordering, oversees program operations of the soup kitchen, food pantry, barber shop and shower program. Betsy reports to the Executive Director and has seven direct reports. Betsy has been with NCCenter 13 years.
Contact: [email protected]
____________________________________________________________________________
Volunteer Coordinator
David Lovegreen
David Lovegreen has been Volunteer Coordinator since February 2016. David came to NCC with 10 years experience in Volunteer Coordination and Fundraising at two non-profit, social service organizations. David is responsible for all Catholic Charities and New Covenant Center’s (NCC) processes to becoming an NCC volunteer. David collaborates with lead NCC staff members to assess need for volunteers, create job descriptions and trainings specific to volunteer roles. These responsibilities include developing and implementing volunteer policies and procedures, interviewing and vetting volunteers, conducting monthly volunteer orientations, and the production of an annual Volunteer Recognition event. David conducts community outreach efforts at schools, congregations and corporations.
Contact: [email protected]
____________________________________________________________________________
Development & Community Engagement Manager
Leisa Hinds Simpson
Leisa Hinds Simpson is in her sixth year at New Covenant Center and transitioned from a corporate setting to non profit management. Her responsibilities include building and cultivating relationships with current and new donors focusing on both corporate and individuals. She is also involved in bringing major partnerships such as Girl Scouts of CT, Saint Joseph Parenting Center and The Undies Project to collaborate on hunger initiatives. Leisa works closely with guests/clients to assist with finding employment and providing referrals to other agencies.
Contact: [email protected]
____________________________________________________________________________