Harlem Lacrosse - New York Launches Associates Board

We are proud to introduce the inaugural New York Associates Board at Harlem Lacrosse!

This energized group of emerging leaders is stepping forward to champion our mission in powerful ways. Designed for early- to mid-career professionals, the Associates Board strengthens our advocacy, fundraising, and community outreach efforts while building a strong pipeline for future Harlem Lacrosse Board leadership.

Even more exciting, one-third of this inaugural board are Harlem Lacrosse alumni. Their leadership is a powerful example of what full-circle impact looks like in action.

“As both an alum and a direct beneficiary of Harlem Lacrosse, I feel a deep responsibility to give back to the organization that played such a transformative role in my life,” shared Associates Board member Davon Johnson. “I’m driven by the opportunity to positively influence students’ lives and serve as a tangible example of what is possible.”

Board member Christine Nelli’s connection to Harlem Lacrosse also began early. As a high school student-athlete at The King School in Stamford, Connecticut, she first experienced the organization’s work and knew it would remain close to her heart. Years later, her professional path came full circle when she joined KKR, a longstanding Harlem Lacrosse partner, further deepening her commitment to the mission.

Driving Impact Forward

Associates Board members will:

  • Lead and support key fundraising initiatives

  • Expand community engagement and outreach

  • Advocate for youth development and educational equity

  • Build meaningful cross-industry connections in support of our students

Through quarterly meetings with Harlem Lacrosse New York staff and ongoing impact updates, members will stay closely connected to organizational priorities and growth. Coordinated engagement with the Young Professionals Network will further amplify their reach and impact.

This launch marks an exciting investment in the next generation of leaders within our community. We are inspired by their passion and grateful for their commitment.

Keep an eye out for upcoming Associates Board-led events, volunteer opportunities, and community gatherings. There will be many ways to engage, connect, and support their work.

Together, we are building stronger programs and stronger leaders.


Harlem Lacrosse - New York Associates Board

 

Harry Appelt
Hospital for Special Surgery

Bjorn Davidson
AlphaSights

Claire Hiscott
Bank of America

Caroline O’Dea
Five Rings

Eli Vega
Bank of America

Souleymane Ballo
BHSI

Oumou Doumbia
NYU Langone Health

Davon Johnson
Zurich North America

Christian Randolph
Brown Advisory

John (JD) Belin
Rockefeller Capital Mgmt.

John Fox
NewEdge Wealth

Isaac Kante
BHSI

Penda Sarr
Cisco

Hannah Burgess
Ostium Labs

Zac Harleston
General Atlantic

Christine Nelli
KKR

Dickson Smith III
F2 (AI for Finance)