We’re delighted to present the first-ever “Newton-Needham MetroWest 50 Most Influential Business People of Color” list.
Greater Boston’s western suburbs are often dismissed for their homogeneity. But the truth is, this is a region that draws people of all ethnicities
from all points of the globe. And once you’ve had a chance to review our 50 honorees, we think you’ll agree: The talent here is both diverse
and impressive!
Still, we know that we have a lot of work to do. This list aims to celebrate, document and showcase the plethora of professionals and executives
of color making a positive contribution to the economic and social fabric of the region. But we want this list to spark conversations about
where we fall short too, and how we can and must do better.
We also hope this list will serve as a strong statement to our businesses, nonprofits and social institutions to replace the phrase “we can’t find
qualified candidates of color” with the names here and the many other exemplary people of color working and seeking opportunities here. And
yes, those honored here are just part of the story. We received just under 200 nominations which were then winnowed down to the 50 deemed “most
influential” by a seven-member selection committee.
To qualify, nominees must work and/or sit on a board for a business or nonprofit that is physically located in Newton, Needham, Watertown, Waltham,
Wellesley, Natick or Framingham.
Our thanks to everyone who found the time to submit a nomination. We’re also grateful to our selection committee: Michael Benezra,
director of economic affairs and innovation at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Israel; Betty Francisco of Amplify Latinx;
former State Treasurer Steve Grossman of ICIC; Jay Kim of Foundation for MetroWest; Shirley Leung of the Boston Globe; Darryl Settles of Catalyst Ventures Development and Colette Phillips.
Our deepest appreciation also to Prime Automotive Group, Direct Federal Credit Union and the other sponsors listed in this publication for making
this project possible.
And our congratulations and gratitude to the 50 business leaders listed here for your contributions to the economic and social fabric of this region!
Colette Phillips
CEO, CP Communications and Founder, Get Konnected!
Greg Reibman
President, Newton-Needham Regional Chamber
