The Bridge Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

The Bridge has 6 executives leading key functions including operations, marketing, finance, and strategy.

Dedicated to fostering healing and personal growth, The Bridge provides a holistic range of services aimed at helping vulnerable individuals rebuild their lives and thrive within the community.

Leadership Roles at The Bridge

  • Co-Founder & Chief Operating Officer & Chief Financial Officer - William Cai
  • Chief Operating Officer - Dilcia Lewis
  • President & Owner - Stephen Lapenta
  • PRESIDENT Emerita Professor of Law - Carol Buckler
  • Owner and President - Traci Longa
  • Chief Marketing Officer - Jasmine Ortiz
  • William Cai - Co-Founder & Chief Operating Officer & Chief Financial Officer

    William Cai, the Co-Founder & Chief Operating Officer & Chief Financial Officer at The Bridge, provides dual leadership across critical operational and financial domains. Cai's operational purview ensures the efficient delivery of supportive housing and community-based programs, aligning with the organization's long-standing commitment to adults facing serious mental illness. Simultaneously, the Chief Financial Officer role under William Cai's direction manages all financial planning, budgeting, and resource management, safeguarding the organization's fiscal health. This integrated leadership ensures that The Bridge can sustain and expand its vital services, including outpatient programs and community initiatives, across New York City. Cai's strategic financial acumen and operational oversight are fundamental to maintaining the integrity and effectiveness of the organization's mission.

    Dilcia Lewis - Chief Operating Officer

    Dilcia Lewis, the Chief Operating Officer at The Bridge, directs all operational facets of the organization's supportive housing and community-based programs. Overseeing the delivery of critical services for adults facing serious mental illness, Lewis ensures the seamless execution of outpatient programs and community initiatives. This leadership role involves optimizing resource allocation to maximize client impact across New York City. By maintaining high standards of care and operational efficiency, Dilcia Lewis directly supports the organization's mission to create safe and welcoming environments. The Chief Operating Officer's strategic oversight guarantees that The Bridge consistently meets the evolving needs of vulnerable individuals, including those with histories of homelessness, incarceration, or institutionalization, fostering their healing and personal growth.

    Stephen Lapenta - President & Owner

    Stephen Lapenta, the President & Owner at The Bridge, provides overarching strategic direction and executive leadership for the organization's mission. Lapenta's role involves guiding the expansion and refinement of supportive housing and community-based programs designed for adults facing serious mental illness. As President, Stephen Lapenta ensures that all initiatives, from outpatient services to community outreach, align with the core values of fostering healing and personal growth. This leadership position requires a deep understanding of the complex needs of vulnerable individuals and a commitment to creating safe, welcoming environments. The President's vision drives The Bridge's continued success in empowering clients to rebuild their lives and thrive within the New York City community.

    Carol Buckler - PRESIDENT Emerita Professor of Law

    Carol Buckler, the PRESIDENT Emerita Professor of Law at The Bridge, contributes distinguished expertise and strategic guidance to the organization's leadership. Buckler's role involves providing high-level oversight and counsel, drawing upon extensive experience to enhance the effectiveness of supportive housing and community-based programs for adults facing serious mental illness. As PRESIDENT Emerita, Carol Buckler offers invaluable insights into policy, governance, and ethical considerations, ensuring The Bridge upholds the highest standards in its services. This position leverages academic rigor and practical wisdom to support the organization's commitment to fostering healing and personal growth. Buckler's contributions are vital in maintaining The Bridge's reputation for excellence and its dedication to creating supportive environments for vulnerable individuals.

    Traci Longa - Owner and President

    Traci Longa, the Owner and President at The Bridge, directs the strategic vision and operational execution of the organization's critical services. Longa's leadership ensures the continued provision and enhancement of supportive housing and community-based programs for adults facing serious mental illness across New York City. As President, Traci Longa oversees all aspects of the organization's operations, focusing on fostering healing and personal growth for vulnerable individuals. This role demands a comprehensive understanding of client needs and a commitment to maintaining safe, welcoming environments. The Owner and President's dedication drives The Bridge's mission to empower individuals to rebuild their lives and achieve community integration, reinforcing the organization's legacy of impactful support.

    Jasmine Ortiz - Chief Marketing Officer

    Jasmine Ortiz, the Chief Marketing Officer at The Bridge, drives the organization's external communications and brand strategy. Focusing on amplifying the impact of supportive housing and community-based programs, Ortiz crafts messaging that resonates with stakeholders and the broader New York City community. This role involves developing and executing comprehensive marketing campaigns to raise awareness about services for adults facing serious mental illness. By highlighting the success stories and transformative power of The Bridge's offerings, Jasmine Ortiz enhances public understanding and support. The Chief Marketing Officer's efforts are crucial in attracting resources and fostering partnerships that enable the organization to expand its reach and continue its vital work in creating healing environments.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding The Bridge Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads The Bridge?
    The Bridge is led by William Cai (Co-Founder & Chief Operating Officer & Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Dilcia Lewis (Chief Operating Officer) and Stephen Lapenta (President & Owner).
    Who is part of The Bridge’s executive team?
    The executive team of The Bridge includes leaders such as William Cai (Co-Founder & Chief Operating Officer & Chief Financial Officer), Dilcia Lewis (Chief Operating Officer), Stephen Lapenta (President & Owner) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does The Bridge have?
    The Bridge has 6 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in The Bridge’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of The Bridge includes roles such as Co-Founder & Chief Operating Officer & Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, President & Owner, PRESIDENT Emerita Professor of Law, Owner and President.