Goddard Riverside Community Center Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Goddard Riverside Community Center has 6 executives leading key functions including finance, operations, human resources, and strategy.

Dedicated to fostering a fair and just society, Goddard Riverside Community Center empowers individuals and families through comprehensive programs that combat homelessness, promote behavioral health, and strengthen communities across New York City.

Leadership Roles at Goddard Riverside Community Center

  • Chief Financial Officer - Michael Klidas
  • Chief Operating Officer - Andrea Cain
  • Chief Operating Officer & Compliance Officer - Andrea Lawson
  • President - Roderick Jones
  • President - Betsy Newell
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Merrill Dobson
  • Michael Klidas - Chief Financial Officer

    Michael Klidas, the Chief Financial Officer at Goddard Riverside Community Center, directs all financial operations and fiscal strategy. Overseeing budgeting, financial planning, and resource allocation, Klidas ensures the organization's financial health and sustainability. This leadership role involves managing financial reporting, compliance with funding regulations, and optimizing financial performance across all program areas. By maintaining robust financial controls, Michael Klidas directly supports the mission of empowering individuals and strengthening communities. The Chief Financial Officer's oversight extends to investment strategies and risk management, safeguarding the organization's assets and ensuring long-term viability. Klidas drives fiscal responsibility throughout the center's diverse operations.

    Andrea Cain - Chief Operating Officer

    Andrea Cain, the Chief Operating Officer at Goddard Riverside Community Center, executes operational strategies to enhance program delivery and organizational efficiency. Overseeing daily operations across multiple service areas, Cain ensures seamless program execution and resource utilization. This critical role involves managing the implementation of new initiatives and optimizing existing processes to better serve the New York City community. By focusing on operational excellence, Andrea Cain directly contributes to the organization's capacity to address homelessness and promote behavioral health. The Chief Operating Officer's responsibilities include fostering cross-departmental collaboration and ensuring adherence to service standards. Cain drives operational improvements that amplify the center's impact.

    Andrea Lawson - Chief Operating Officer & Compliance Officer

    Andrea Lawson, the Chief Operating Officer & Compliance Officer at Goddard Riverside Community Center, manages both the day-to-day operational execution and the rigorous adherence to all regulatory and organizational standards. Overseeing the effective delivery of services, Lawson ensures programs align with the mission of fostering a fair and just society. This dual role involves maintaining compliance frameworks, managing risk, and driving operational improvements across early childhood education, older adult centers, and homelessness services. By integrating compliance into operational workflows, Andrea Lawson strengthens the organization's integrity and accountability. The Chief Operating Officer & Compliance Officer's focus is on ensuring that all activities meet the highest standards of quality and ethical practice, supporting the empowerment of New Yorkers. Lawson champions operational integrity and robust compliance measures.

    Roderick Jones - President

    Roderick Jones, the President at Goddard Riverside Community Center, provides strategic vision and executive leadership to guide the organization's mission. Overseeing all major initiatives and organizational direction, Jones ensures alignment with the goal of fostering a fair and just society. This pivotal role involves engaging with stakeholders, driving advocacy efforts, and shaping the organization's impact on New York City communities. By championing the center's work, Roderick Jones directly enhances its ability to empower children, youth, and families. The President's responsibilities include fostering partnerships and ensuring the long-term sustainability of programs that combat homelessness and promote behavioral health. Jones leads strategic growth and community engagement.
    Roderick Jones

    Betsy Newell - President

    Betsy Newell, the President at Goddard Riverside Community Center, provides executive leadership and strategic direction for the organization's comprehensive service offerings. Overseeing key organizational priorities, Newell ensures the effective execution of programs aimed at empowering individuals and strengthening communities across New York City. This leadership role involves guiding the organization's efforts in early childhood education, older adult support, and homelessness services. By focusing on strategic development, Betsy Newell directly advances the mission of fostering a fair and just society. The President's responsibilities include cultivating donor relations and advancing the organization's advocacy agenda. Newell drives strategic initiatives and community impact.

    Merrill Dobson - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Merrill Dobson, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Goddard Riverside Community Center, directs all human capital strategies and talent management initiatives. Overseeing recruitment, employee development, compensation, and benefits, Dobson cultivates a supportive and high-performing work environment. This leadership position is crucial for attracting and retaining the skilled professionals needed to deliver comprehensive services across New York City. By championing employee well-being and professional growth, Merrill Dobson directly supports the organization's capacity to empower individuals and strengthen communities. The Chief Human Resources Officer's focus includes fostering a positive organizational culture and ensuring equitable HR practices. Dobson drives talent acquisition and retention strategies.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Goddard Riverside Community Center Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Goddard Riverside Community Center?
    Goddard Riverside Community Center is led by Michael Klidas (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Andrea Cain (Chief Operating Officer) and Andrea Lawson (Chief Operating Officer & Compliance Officer).
    Who is part of Goddard Riverside Community Center’s executive team?
    The executive team of Goddard Riverside Community Center includes leaders such as Michael Klidas (Chief Financial Officer), Andrea Cain (Chief Operating Officer), Andrea Lawson (Chief Operating Officer & Compliance Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Goddard Riverside Community Center have?
    Goddard Riverside Community Center has 6 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Goddard Riverside Community Center’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Goddard Riverside Community Center includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Chief Operating Officer & Compliance Officer, President, President.