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Jean R. Chery
Founder
Coming Soon
Gregory Aurelien
President
Gregory Aurelien, graduated from Three Rivers Community College (TRCC), has an associate in science of nursing. He has a decent amount of work experience in the community field. He is passionate about helping people since he was in his country of origin, Haiti. With four years of psychology study at the Human Science Faculty of the Haitian State University (FASCH-UEH), he used to provide psychosocial support to countless Haitian in the outer part of HAITI. He has worked with Non-Governmental Organizations such as UNICEF, WORLD VISION, SOGEBANK FOUNDATION, to implement programs that improve Haitians health after many natural disasters. Migrated to the United States of America in 2015, He started working as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) caring for elderly patients for about four (4) years. Meanwhile, he has also volunteered to work with church youths to promote spiritual and personal development for about four years. He previously served as the Public Relation Director/
Speaker of the board of the Haitian Community Center of Greater Norwich. Now, he is currently the president of this organization for the term 2025-2027. He has been married for 12 years and has two beautiful kids.
Samson Tonton Vice President
"We can't predict tomorrow, no matter our plans.” Samson Tonton was born in the serene countryside of Haiti, a place where the beauty of the island was contrasted sharply with his daily struggles. Raised by a single mother of seven, Samson's life was marked by hardships, yet the simplicity and natural splendor of the island instilled in him a deep sense
of gratitude and appreciation for each new day. Soccer was Samson's escape, a passion that kept his spirit alive amid the challenges. As he grew, hope flickered when his siblings and mother began to move to the US, seeking a better life. At 25, Samson took a leap of faith and followed, embracing the promise of the American dream. Despite his love for soccer, a deeper calling tugged at Samson's heart – the
desire to capture the world through art. This passion led him to the New England Institute of Art in Boston, MA. The two-hour commute was a small price to pay for the chance to pursue his dream.“My artwork is a story for everyone to see; it's the tale of an immigrant boy who brings to life the rich, vibrant colors of his island home, with bold and stark
lines that speak of struggle and resilience. It’s a testament to the enduring spirit of hope and the beauty that emerges from hardship, inviting others to find their own stories within the strokes and hues.” Samson strives to bring a story to his work – a story that transcends boundaries and speaks to the heart of humanity. From teaching art in the classroom to creating grand canvases, his journey has
taught him that he belongs with the best, not by pushing others aside, but by creating a space that celebrates us all.
Jessica Dorelus
Secretary
Jessica Dorelus is a finance professional and emerging community leader who currently serves as Secretary of the Board for the Haitian Community Center of Greater Norwich. Born and raised in Haiti, Jessica immigrated to the United States in 2016 at the age of 19. Trilingual in Haitian Creole, French, and English, she brings a global perspective and strong cultural awareness to all aspects of her work and service.
Jessica holds a Bachelor’s degree in Finance from Southern New Hampshire University and has accumulated over five years of experience in the banking industry, where she has developed a keen understanding of financial systems, customer service, and organizational management.
In addition to her professional career, Jessica is deeply committed to faith-based and community service. She plays an active leadership role in her church's youth ministry and currently oversees the children's ministry, where she mentors, organizes programs, and fosters spiritual and personal growth among young participants.
Before joining the HCC board, Jessica contributed her time as a volunteer teacher in the Center's English as a Second Language (ESL) program, offering essential language support to new immigrants. This early involvement with the Haitian Community Center helped her cultivate valuable leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills—qualities that now define her contributions as a board member.
As Secretary of the Board, Jessica is committed to fostering sustainable growth and inclusive engagement within the Haitian community in Connecticut. Through her dedication, cultural insight, and financial expertise, she aspires to serve as a vital resource and positive force for change.
Daphline Desormeau Assitant Secretary
Coming Soon
Jimsly Joseph Treasurer
Jimsly Joseph was born and raised in Haiti. He migrated to the United States of America in March 1998. He lived in Miami , Florida for the first 5 years .Then he moved to New London , Connecticut since 2003 where he married and became a father of three boys.His past time is reading , going to the movies and spending time with his family.
He is a reserved , reliable and confident person. He is an accountant an tax preparer .He used to work at Foxwoods as a cashier and a Poker Dealer. He is currently the treasurer of Haitian Community Center of Greater Norwich(HCC). His primary duty include budget planning, financial reporting, record-keeping, managing incoming and outgoing funds. His goal is to ensure the financial stability and success of the organization.
Patrice Medor
​Public relations
Patrice (Pat) Medor is a native of Haiti and the fifth child of nine. He received his plumbing degree from J.M Wright Technical High School in Stamford. In 1983, Pat Medor graduated from Southern Connecticut State University with a B.S. degree in Business Economics. In 2013 he established and facilitated the Men’s Support Group at BIMEC, a drug rehabilitation and housing facility that is still in operation. At that location, Pat Medor is currently overseeing and teaching weekly this Men’s Support Group on life skills, basic work training and discipline.
He is currently the Owner/ President of Genexo Associates. A General Contracting company specializing in Plumbing/HVAC and Home improvement/repairs for over thirty years. He was a faithful member of Ebenezer Chapel in New Haven for over 30 years. There, he founded the Ebenezer Youth Training Program and became a strong advocate for families and children and has organized the Family & Friends Weekend Festival for several years He is also an ordained minister with the Pentecostal Assemblies of the World, Inc. and have received his certification from Aenon Bible College. He served as Pastor of Exodus Family Worship Center for approximately 6 years. He is currently the Outreach Pastor for Exodus Family Outreach Ministries with a weekly Sunday Night Facebook live broadcast. His international ministry extends to Haiti and Costa Rica where he has traveled yearly to minister and bring financial support. Also included is Israel, India, Kenya, and North Miami, Florida where he has financially assisted with ministry building projects. He is also an active member of the American Association of Christian Counselors with certification from Light University. Pat Medor is married and is a devoted father of nine children.
Jean Kesner Mervius
Public relations assisstant
Jean was born and raised in Haiti, where he began his journey as a journalist, serving his community through meaningful engagement, information sharing, and public education. After the devastating 2010 earthquake, Jean relocated to the United States to begin a new chapter. He and his wife have been married for 15 years and are proud parents of three boys.
Motivated by a passion for serving his fellow Haitians, Jean joined several Christian organizations as a missionary, leading sustainable community initiatives in Haiti. His work has also extended to short-term missions and projects in Panama and the Dominican Republic, with a focus on community-building.
Currently, Jean works as the Group Director of Human Resources at the Ocean House Collection in Watch Hill, Rhode Island. With a natural ability to inspire, Jean excels in fostering a culture of collaboration, trust, and recognition. His people-focused approach emphasizes promoting a supportive, inclusive atmosphere that empowers people to thrive.
Jean holds a Master of Professional Studies in Human Resources from Pennsylvania State University and a Bachelor’s degree in International Studies from California University of Pennsylvania. Serving as a board member of the Haitian Community Center of Greater Norwich, Jean supports Public Relations initiatives aiming at connecting, strengthening and empowering Haitians in the local community.
Matthew Lewellen Marketing Director
Matthew Lewellen is a passionate marketing leader, creative entrepreneur, and dedicated community advocate. He currently serves as the Marketing Director for the Haitian Community Center of Greater Norwich, where he focuses on amplifying community voices, strengthening outreach, and promoting cultural connection.
Matthew is also the founder and owner of Divine Sound Production, a full-service media production company specializing in audio engineering, branding, and live event production. With a background in both media and nonprofit leadership, he seamlessly blends creative strategy with community impact.
His dedication to youth empowerment led him to establish the Coach Lewys Foundation, where he served as a founding board member. He has also made a significant impact in local sports leadership, previously serving as President of the Eastern CT Wolves and as Football Director for the Montville Youth Football League (MYFL) — mentoring countless young athletes along the way.
Matthew holds a degree in Audio Engineering and has earned Nonprofit Skills Certificates from the HR Certification Institute (HRCI), further enhancing his ability to lead mission-driven initiatives.
Whether behind the scenes producing powerful content or on the front lines of community engagement, Matthew brings vision, heart, and experience to every role he takes on.
Rachelle St Surin
Advisor
Rachelle St. Surin was born and raised in Haiti and migrated to the United States in 2013 at the age of 16. She is fluent in Creole and English and possesses a working knowledge of French.
A Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) and current nursing student, Rachelle brings over six years of experience in the healthcare field. Her deep passion for helping others has fueled her dedication to nursing as a meaningful way to positively impact lives.
In 2025, Rachelle joined the Board of the Haitian Community Center (HCC) of Greater Norwich to broaden her outreach and provide support to individuals within her community, particularly those of Haitian descent. Her volunteer work includes teaching English to Haitian migrants and contributing to initiatives that distribute gifts to children with incarcerated parents during the holiday season.
As a board advisor at HCC, Rachelle is committed to working alongside like-minded individuals to foster positive change and uplift the Haitian community in Connecticut.
Marie Louise Tataye
Advisor
Coming Soon
Caleb Roseme
Advisor
Caleb Roseme serves as Chief Operations Officer at Assured Quality Homecare, a Connecticut-based agency committed to delivering compassionate, high-quality in-home care. With a background in mechanical engineering from the University of Connecticut and over eight years of experience as a quality assurance and process engineer, Caleb brings a systems-driven, people-centered approach to leadership.
Beyond his work in healthcare operations, Caleb is deeply involved in his community. He serves on the Eastern Connecticut Workforce Investment and Connecticut Association for Healthcare At Home. Caleb resides with his wife and three children in Norwich, Connecticut. His passions include faith, fitness, community service, and supporting initiatives that uplift underserved populations.
Jeff Petit Homme
Advisor
Coming Soon
Contact
We are always looking for new and exciting opportunities. Let's connect.
860-319-5440