October 2022
Dear Colleagues, Donors, Partners, and Friends,
It is with bittersweet emotions and a deep sense of gratitude that I write to announce I will be stepping down from my position as Executive Director after 14 years at CLUSTER.
When I joined CLUSTER in 2009, I did not imagine the opportunities, adventures, and challenges that were in store. I am deeply thankful for the opportunity to learn, to grow the organization, and to serve our communities. Leading CLUSTER has been one of the greatest pleasures and privileges of my career.
Throughout it all, the support of my valued colleagues, our generous donors and our community partners has been crucial, and the wisdom each of you have shared has been a cherished gift. What I learned from serving and engaging with all of you broadened my perspective and informed my practice. Thank you for your generosity and inspiration!
The Board of Trustees has made the excellent decision to promote Freda Macon to Executive Director as of January 1, 2023.
Freda has been with CLUSTER for over 20 years. Over the years she has grown our programs, created strong partnerships in the community with our funders and has been a tireless advocate for not only those we serve, but for our staff that do the work. During the last 4 years I have had the privilege and honor of working side by side with her. This partnership has been integral to CLUSTER’s success as an agency deeply respected in the community. I am confident that she will continue to serve our communities and further the agency as a foundation for change.
Tajae Gaynor has been named Deputy Executive Director. Tajae has been with CLUSTER for 16 years and has served as the Director of the Westchester-Rockland Mediation Center for the last 6. During his time as Director, he has enhanced the Center’s services, built our Restorative Justice Program and developed strong partnerships in the community. I am certain he will continue to bring that depth of knowledge and vision to his new role.
This is an exciting moment in CLUSTER’s evolution. Freda and Tajae have been working together for many years, albeit in different departments. Now they will be working side by side, charting a new path for CLUSTER and the community it serves. Freda and Tajae, individually, bring so much to the table and they share a mutual affection and respect for CLUSTER and the people who are the heartbeat of our work. I know they will be a spectacular team and I look forward to seeing all the wonderful new opportunities this leadership team will bring.
I will remain in my role until December 31, 2022 to help support the smoothest transition, working closely with Freda and Tajae as they craft a new direction for CLUSTER.
With much appreciation and deep affection,
Kristina Yamin
Executive Director