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 NECIC team in 2017 as a NECIC Staffing Specialist, drawn to the organization’s deep commitment to the North End and its residents. From the start, her work has centered on walking alongside people as they pursue employment, stability, and long-term success always meeting individuals where they are and helping them move forward with dignity and confidence.

As a proud North End native, Tionna’s connection to NECIC’s mission is both professional and deeply personal. She cares deeply about improving quality of life, expanding economic opportunity, and ensuring that residents have access to the tools, resources, and support they need to thrive. Her passion for community shows up not just in strategy and leadership, but in everyday relationships and hands-on problem solving.

Now serving as Chief Operating Officer, Tionna provides operational leadership across NECIC’s programs while staying grounded in the values that brought her to the organization in the first place empowerment, opportunity, and community-driven change.

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, Director of Marketing

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, Executive Administrative 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

Gabe 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.

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. 

Emily Schwan, MATI Community Impact Organizer

Emily Schwan is the MATI Community Impact Organizer at NECIC, where she works to strengthen community connections and support initiatives that improve access and opportunity for local residents. She brings experience in nonprofit and community-based work from her time at Third Street Family Health Services, along with a deep passion for helping people and building meaningful partnerships. Emily holds a Bachelor’s degree in English from The Ohio State University at Mansfield, where she graduated in 2020, as well as an Associate’s degree in Communication from North Central State College. She is actively involved in several community organizations. Outside of work, she enjoys reading, crocheting, playing video games, cooking, and spending time with her two cats, Toulouse and Winston.

Hugo Estrada, 
Community Connector & Organizing Support

He began his journey with NECIC in 2024 as a Community Organizing Intern while earning his Associate’s degree in Social Work from North Central State College. During this time, he learned about our community engagement and organizing initiatives aimed at strengthening relationships and amplifying resident voices within Mansfield’s North End.

 After completing his Associate’s degree, Hugo transitioned into his current role as Community Connector & Organizing Support while continuing his education in a Bachelor of Science in Social Work (BSSW) program at The Ohio State University Mansfield. In this role, he applies his foundational training in social work—grounded in sociological and scientific frameworks—to support NECIC’s community organizing initiatives. His work advances initiatives that promote sustainable neighborhood growth through data-informed practices, community-driven strategies, and an emphasis on long-term social impact. Hugo is deeply committed to community empowerment, equitable access to resources, and strengthening systems that support thriving neighborhoods.

Adam McCombs, Farm Manager

His background includes leadership roles with T-Mobile and Pleasant Hill Marina, where he developed strong skills in team leadership, safety training, inventory management, and hands-on operations. Known for his strong work ethic and collaborative approach, he is committed to creating safe, organized, and productive environments.

A reliable and adaptable professional with over 10 years of experience across agriculture, customer service, retail management, and outdoor recreation. He currently serves as Farm Manager at the North End Community Improvement Collaborative (NECIC), where he supports day-to-day farm operations and contributes to the organization’s mission of community empowerment and neighborhood revitalization.

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.

Carol Payton, Senior Volunteer

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 Fund, 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 career 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 Honorable 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!

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.

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.