Robert joined JRI in 1997, and since that time, he performed in escalating leadership capacities across an array of congregate treatment models. Robert’s role changed in 2018 when he was promoted into the organizational-wide position of Vice President of Operations, in which he worked closely with the JRI senior executive team, in developing, holding, and supporting numerous organizational systems and operations. In 2024, Robert was promoted to Senior Vice President of Operations and Enterprise Risk Management.

Deirdre came to JRI in 1991 to manage the start up of a community group home for women transitioning from institutional settings. She's grown along with JRI Developing Abilities, serving in roles of increasing scope and responsibility, and in 2013 was promoted to Vice President. The Division now includes a range of residential services, employment supports, day habilitation programs for adults with developmental needs and elders. Deirdre also serves on the training committee for the Association for Developmental Disabilities Providers.

 Jennifer has worked in the human service field for over 20 years with children and families in residential, community and hospital settings and received her Bachelor’s Degree and MSW from Rhode Island College.  Jennifer has worked for JRI since May, 1997. She was promoted to Director of the Commonworks Program in January of 2003.

Roody joined JRI as Chief Information Officer in January 2016.  His role expanded to Chief Administrative Officer in 2025 with oversight of human resources and Information Technology. He is a highly accomplished Information Technology (IT) executive with over 20 years’ experience. Roody’s experience spans some of the most well-known industry sectors, manufacturing, higher education, healthcare, finance and government. Most recently, Roody was Director of Strategic Planning and Innovation for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts’ Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development.

Dr. Kerry-Ann Williams is a board-certified Psychiatrist with a specialization in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. She is a medical director at Justice Resource Institute and has a faculty appointment to Harvard Medical School as a part-time Lecturer in Psychiatry. In her clinical work, she assesses a variety of psychiatric concerns, but primarily sees individuals who have experienced emotional trauma. She hosts a podcast called “Black Mental Health Matters” which airs every Sunday at 1pm EST. Most recently, Dr.

Bisser joined JRI in 1996 as an assistant accountant and was promoted into several finance positions over the past 20 years. Bisser held the position of budget director for 6 years, and was promoted to JRI's Chief Financial Officer in 2017.  Bisser  holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and Economics from the American University in Bulgaria, and an MBA and a Graduate Diploma in Professional Accounting, both from Suffolk University. 

Kari Beserra, LMHC, is Chief Operating Officer for JRI.  In this role, Kari works closely with JRI’s leadership team to execute our strategy and vision while fostering an inclusive and collaborative environment.   Kari also oversees many of the central departments in the agency, including Training, Staff Development, and Quality Management.

Our foster care program is rooted in the principle that every child deserves to feel safe, to be nurtured, and to thrive. Our foster families and staff are committed to maximizing each child's potential within our stable and loving foster homes.

The Southeast Behavioral Health Center is a Joint Commission-Accredited Clinic providing comprehensive assessment and treatment to individuals and families of all ages. In addition, the Southeast Behavioral Health Center provides specialized services to young children and their families with trauma histories. The program operates in conjunction with the Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation and Training Program (ECTC).