Introducing the Newest Members of the Young Audiences Board of Trustees

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

[PRINCETON, NJ – September 17, 2025] — The YA Board of Trustees is excited to welcome its newest members: Mona Bakre and Justin Williams. Congratulations and welcome aboard!

Mona Bakre is a seasoned finance and operations leader with over 30 years of experience in financial management, planning, and process improvement across the reinsurance and publishing industries. Most recently, she served as Head of IT Financial Management at Munich Reinsurance America, where she led teams in strategic expense management and system implementation while supporting clear, actionable decision-making for stakeholders. Mona holds an MBA from Rutgers University and brings a commitment to accountability and thoughtful stewardship to advance mission-driven organizations.

Justin Williams, M.S.Ed. is a dedicated advocate for children and families, with a professional background that spans foster care, education, mental health, and substance abuse prevention. He currently serves as Director of Strategic Partnerships at Lakeside Educational Network, where he leads efforts to integrate trauma-informed mental health services into school communities. Justin is passionate about using creativity, culture, and collaboration to support youth development and equitable access to educational and artistic opportunities. He serves on several regional and statewide committees focused on kinship care, quality parenting, and human relations, and is excited to contribute his perspective to the mission of Young Audiences.

“We are excited about this new cohort of trustees and we know that their individual talents and expertise will bring fresh perspectives to YA,” said Michele Russo, YA President and CEO.

Please help us give Mona and Justin the warmest welcome as they help YANJEP continue our mission to inspire young people and expand their learning through the arts.

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About Young Audiences Arts for Learning New Jersey and Eastern PA

Young Audiences Arts for Learning NJ & Eastern PA, established in 1973, is the leading arts-in-education resource in the region, offering teaching artist-led performances, workshops, residencies, and professional learning programs to schools across New Jersey and Eastern Pennsylvania. With an extensive roster of professional artists spanning various art forms, Young Audiences has impacted more than 15 million children in its 50-year history. Committed to inspiring young minds and fostering inclusive learning environments, Young Audiences strives to ensure that every child receives rich and meaningful arts experiences. Through diverse and accessible programs, the organization aims to strengthen arts education, meet curriculum standards, and enrich cultural life in communities throughout New Jersey and Pennsylvania. To learn more, visit yanjep.org.

MEDIA CONTACT:

AnnMarie Gervasio
Director of Marketing and PR
Young Audiences Arts for Learning
agervasio@yanjep.org
866-500-9265 ext. 209