Staff Members
Matthew Benko-Scruggs, Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Matthew Benko-Scruggs is a mission-driven executive with over 20 years of leadership experience in hospitality, philanthropy, and brand strategy. As CEO of NECIC, he leads efforts to drive inclusive economic development and equity across Mansfield’s North End, blending operational expertise with a passion for community impact.
Originally from Pittsburgh, PA, Matthew studied Culinary Arts and Hotel / Restaurant Management at Johnson & Wales University and completed executive coursework at The Wharton School of Business. Prior to NECIC, he lead the Philanthropy and Brand Management efforts for a statewide youth agency, where he secured the largest donation in the organization’s 78-year history and led branding across 23 regional offices.
Matthew’s career includes leadership roles at The Ohio State University’s Wooster Campus, major convention centers in Pittsburgh, Boston, Houston, and Dallas, and with the Pittsburgh Steelers. He has managed multimillion-dollar operations nationwide, consistently increasing revenue and improving guest experience.
A strategist by trade and brand storyteller at heart, Matthew brings a results-driven approach to both the nonprofit and private sectors. He and his husband Johnathan enjoy traveling and gardening—and share their home with a pug named Nikki, who loves to stand in the flowers.
Tionna Perdue, Chief Operating Officer (COO)
Tionna joined the team as a NECIC Staffing Specialist in 2017 after ten years with Third Street Family Health Services.
A North End native, Tionna loves the mission to improve the quality of life and the economic landscape of the North End. Her passion for helping fellow residents by giving them the tools they need to be successful shows every day in her work as the Operations Manager.
Jacqueline Williams, Director of Staffing
Jacqueline Williams brings both sparkle and strength to NECIC’s Staffing team. A proud North End native, she joined the organization in August 2022 after an impressive 14-year career with Startek, where she built a reputation for turning challenges into opportunities, and doing it all with contagious laughter and a killer sense of humor.
Known around the office as the “People Whisperer,” Jacqueline believes everyone who walks through the door has greatness waiting to be discovered. Her mission is simple but powerful: to meet people where they are, help them find their footing, and cheer them on every step of the way.
Whether she’s matching job seekers with life-changing opportunities or cracking a perfectly timed joke in the middle of a busy day, Jacqueline embodies what it means to lead with purpose, compassion, and fabulousness. She doesn’t just manage staffing; she makes it fun.
Lucas Gerber, Marketing Director
Lucas joined NECIC in 2023, bringing a passion for nonprofit work first sparked during his internship at Kingwood Center Gardens. A 2020 Franklin University graduate with a degree in Marketing, Lucas now serves as our Marketing Director.
When off the clock, Lucas is often exploring the world of whiskey as a Certified Executive Bourbon Steward. An outdoor lover at heart, he regularly heads out with his wife, Katie, for kayaking and geocaching adventures, though he is just as happy at home cooking or playing video games.
Eva Wehry, ExecutiveAdministrative Assistant
Eva comes to NECIC as a life-long resident of Mansfield. Bringing her passion for the environment and sustainability, she hopes to make the North End a little greener – and bettering the environment for the residents!
In her down time, she loves yoga, going thrifting, spending time in nature or just hanging out with her fiancé and dog & cats.
Gabe Pierce, Director of Farming
Gabriel Pierce is the Farming Director at the North End Community Improvement Collaborative (NECIC). He began his journey with NECIC in 2020 as a farm hand during the early development of the Urban Farm. Over the years, he worked across multiple departments, gaining a deep understanding of the organization’s mission and operations. In 2022, he became Farm Manager, helping to expand NECIC’s agricultural initiatives.
After a period in Philadelphia working with a pediatric cancer research foundation, Gabriel returned to NECIC to lead its farming efforts. A graduate of The Ohio State University, he brings a strong commitment to sustainable agriculture, community empowerment, and the revitalization of Mansfield’s North End.
Phone: 419-989-7704
Shanican Pender,
Community Organizer
Shanican Pender, BS, MSA, is an experienced community advocate, entrepreneur, and the proud owner of Lotus House Beauty and Wellness. A former North End resident and longtime member of the NECIC family, Shanican previously served as a Community Organizer from 2008–2013 and has now returned to that role, bringing with her a wealth of knowledge and deep neighborhood connections.
Her background includes coordinating impactful health and wellness initiatives, collaborating with diverse partners, and empowering underserved populations through outreach, education, and leadership. With degrees from Wilberforce University and Central Michigan University, along with professional training from institutions such as Northwestern and Stanford, Shanican’s career reflects her lifelong passion for helping others.
Whether behind the chair in her salon or engaging with residents across the North End, she remains committed to holistic well-being, community empowerment, and sustainable growth.
Phone:419-522-1611, ext. 123
Emily Schwan, MATI Community Impact Organizer
Bio coming soon..
Phone: 419-522-1611, ext 103
Hugo Estrada, Community Connections
Bio coming soon..
Phone: 419-522-1611, ext 126
Adam McCombs, Farm Manager
Bio coming soon..
Phone: 419-632-4101
Angela Knighten, Facilities Support Assistant
Angela has been with NECIC for about 3 years. She started off as a volunteer and is now the Facilities Support Assistant. She enjoys working with the Elder Program, serving and socializing with them brings her a lot of joy. She thanks God for the opportunity to be a member of NECIC allowing her to find success and reach her goals.
Phone: 419-522-1611, ext 117
Carol Payton, Senior Vounteer
Carol is a long time volunteer and charter board member for NECIC. From her work life to present she has also volunteered and served on many other community boards including Richland County Foundation, RCF Women's Fiund,, CHAP, Richland County Children's Services, and Third Street Family Health Services.
Her work life began as a teacher and later developed into corporate training and careet counseling for Sprint . She last retired as Director of Outreach for Mansfield UMADAOP. With each role she focused on guiding and supporting young adults and children and delighted in watching their successes.
Carol was married to the late Judge Jeff Payton and raised two children. She is currently enjoying two grandchildren who reside in Illinois and Minnesota but are brought close to her via the magic of Facetime and Zoom visits!
Phone: 419-522-1611, ext 117
Jennifer Krinke, Staffing Specialist - Wooster
With over 7 years of experience in staffing and workforce solutions, Jennifer Krinke is dedicated to connecting skilled professionals with the right opportunities. Known for her commitment to relationship building and her deep understanding of client needs, Jennifer specializes in delivering tailored staffing solutions that help organizations grow and thrive. Her experience spans talent sourcing, recruitment strategy, and client engagement- all driven by a passion for helping people succeed.
Phone: (330)-962-3934
Sara Donohue, Staffing Specialist - Wooster
With over three years of experience in the staffing industry, Sara Donohue brings a deep commitment to connecting individuals with meaningful career opportunities. Having called Wooster home for the past seven years she is passionate about supporting the local community and helping businesses thrive. Sara is dedicated to building strong relationships with employers and job seekers alike, ensuring that NECIC staffing continues to be a trusted partner in workforce development and community growth.
Phone: (330)-962-3934
134 N. Main St., Mansfield, Ohio 44902