Meet the Staff

Bernadette Kennedy brings over 40 years of experience in medical and educational fields, specializing in early childhood development. After moving to Medford, she built a supportive network through MFN, which became her extended family. Since joining MFN in 1993, Bernadette has contributed in numerous roles, including program development and facilitation, and has helped design the current MFN center. She enjoys transforming discarded items into treasures and believes in the continuous journey of learning and kindness.

Irina Shumway brings extensive experience in social work with a focus on education and community engagement to the Medford Family Network (MFN). As a Program Manager with the Office of Family and Community Engagement, she connects families to resources, manages grants, and develops community programs. Her previous roles include being a School Social
Worker and City Connects Coordinator at Boston Public Schools, and a Social Worker at the Department of Children and Families. Irina holds a Master of Social Work from Simmons College and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Massachusetts. Her deep background and qualifications make her a valuable addition to the MFN team.

Andrea Breen has dedicated over 20 years to the Medford Family Network (MFN), where she currently serves as the program manager for parent/child activities. In this role, she oversees a range of programs designed to support and engage families. Andrea has deep roots in South Medford, where she raised her three sons and is now delighted to spend time with her two grandchildren. Outside of her professional responsibilities, Andrea enjoys outdoor activities,
immerses herself in reading, and seizes opportunities to travel when her schedule permits. Her extensive experience and personal interests reflect her commitment to both her community and her personal well-being.

Michelle Pothier, "Ms. Michelle" (also known as "Ms. A") is a Medford native who began her journey in childhood development as an MFN volunteer while in high school. She holds a dual degree in Early Childhood Education and Child Studies and a Master’s degree in Education from Lesley University. Now a mother of two, Michelle is excited to contribute to MFN with her expertise and personal experience, valuing the community's role in childhood development through singing, reading, and engaging with families.

Angela Mercer serves as a Play and Learn Group Facilitator at MFN, bringing nearly a decade of experience teaching grades 5 and 6 and previous work as a preschool teacher. Active in the
community, she has been a Girl Scout leader for six years and is soon to become a Massachusetts Notary Public while pursuing certification as a Children’s Fitness Instructor. Outside of her professional roles, Angela enjoys knitting, crocheting, and reading, balancing her family life with her daughter and twin sons’ activities.

Cindy Sabbag is the mother of three successful daughters and has been with MFN since its inception. She helped design the Family Center and has worked extensively in child care and playgroups, connecting with diverse families. Cindy is trained in the Child Assault Prevention
Program (CAPP) and has delivered workshops for parents and children. She also served as a Girl Scout leader for 30 years, leading her special needs troop to achieve the Gold Award.

Robert Lublin is a Professor of Theatre Arts and former Chair of Performing Arts at the University of Massachusetts Boston, with a focus on Shakespeare, theater, and film history. He
has authored books and articles on these subjects and also teaches wine and whisky appreciation classes through Arlington Community Education. Robert developed a deep appreciation for the Medford Family Network (MFN) while raising his twin daughters, now 6 years old, who enjoyed attending MFN's reading, play, and learning groups. Inspired by the benefits he and his family experienced, he began leading an Effective Fatherhood Workshop series in 2020 to support fathers in becoming better, happier parents. Robert has been a member of the MFN Advisory Board for two years.

Saima Ahmad and her family moved to Medford 17 years ago from Pakistan, and MFN quickly became their extended family, offering support and friendships. Saima found MFN’s parenting
classes transformative, significantly improving their family life. Inspired by these benefits, she pursued extensive training in parent education and served on the MFN Advisory Board for five
years. With a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Saima now focuses on teaching parent education classes and finds parallels between gardening and parenting in her free time.

Yamuna Gautam moved to the USA from Nepal six years ago and has spent the past five
years working as a babysitter before joining MFN as a child care worker. With a strong passion for working with children, she finds it highly rewarding to positively influence their lives and
support their development. In her role at MFN, Yamuna focuses on meeting the needs of children in their parents' absence, driven by her love for children and commitment to providing excellent care.

Rita Swan is a seasoned childcare provider with extensive expertise in managing behavioral issues and a thorough understanding of infant and child care, including nutrition and safety. Born in Dublin, Ireland, she moved to Barcelona as an au pair after high school before settling in the Boston area, where she has lived for 35 years. Rita has two adult children who were born in
Ireland, and her passion for working with children has been a lifelong commitment. Her experience includes leadership roles with the Boy Scouts and Girl Guides in Ireland. Rita is enthusiastic about the Medford Family Network (MFN) and is thrilled to be part of the MFN family, aligning with their values and mission.

Christopher Riek has a lifelong passion for the outdoors, reading, computers, and music, which he integrates into his work at MFN. His enthusiasm is evident in the engaging games, stories, and projects he creates for children. Chris, who has lived in Medford for over 20 years and is a proud uncle, is known for his calm demeanor, bright smile, and positive attitude. His dedication enhances the experiences of those he works with at MFN.