South Portland

Serena M. Powell, MS, CRC, has devoted her career to empowering individuals in poverty to achieve economic stability. As former CEO of Community Work Services, she oversaw its rebranding and expansion, introducing accredited programs for diverse populations, including the previously incarcerated and unhoused. In 2013, CWS joined forces with The Fedcap Group to amplify its reach and impact. Currently leading Fedcap Maine, Powell inspires parents on public benefits and veterans to pursue their aspirations, with over 17,000 Mainers benefiting since 2017. Actively engaged in various boards, Powell holds degrees from UMass Amherst and Boston University and is a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor. Based in Portland, Maine, she resides with her fiancé, Dan Skinner, and their dog.

Ms. Emery is a charismatic leader with an impressive 20 years of experience in workforce development programming. As the Assistant Vice President for Programs and Services for Families Forward Maine, Ms. Emery coordinates the statewide delivery of the ASPIRE program which each year helps upwards of 10,000 low-income Mainers move toward financial independence through education and job training. Ms. Emery has spent her career navigating and advocating for families and their children, becoming an expert with State and Federal rules and policies that affect low-income families with children in Maine. As she leads the largest workforce development contract in Maine, she is deeply committed to leading and developing high-performing team members that support the Families Forward mission of helping Maine families achieve greater economic security through access to employment, training, and education and community resources. Ms. Emery was born and raised in Eastern Maine and has a degree from Husson University.

Michael Bernier is a seasoned operations executive with a track record of driving exceptional results in various sectors. As the Assistant Vice President of Operations for Fedcap Inc., he leverages over 15 years of global experience to optimize business operations, project execution, customer care, communications, and facilities management. Michael is recognized for his strategic vision, collaborative leadership style, and commitment to process optimization. His expertise spans strategic planning, process improvement, risk assessment, regulatory compliance, and team leadership. Michael's impact extends beyond operations, as he has played a pivotal role in marketing initiatives, technology implementations, and program management across various divisions within Fedcap Inc.

Dr. Lisa Vermette, an interdisciplinary scholar in adult education and workforce development, champions economic empowerment through education. With 15+ years of fostering community relationships, she sheds light on pressing social issues through her writing and photography. As Director of Assessment and Education at Fedcap Maine, she leads efforts to alleviate poverty by creating tailored education and training programs. Passionate about her work, she also enjoys gardening and exploring Maine's mountains.