Meet the 2024 Board of Directors

Our Board of Directors is comprised of industry leaders with expertise in a wide range of areas who represent every aspect of our industry. The Board of Directors plays a vital role in guiding and overseeing the activities of the Construction Institute. With responsibility for strategic direction, budgeting, guidelines, and policies, the Board sets the organization's course and ensures its financial well-being. The Board provides leadership for programming and educational initiatives as well as general oversight to committees. The Board consists of up to 15 members who meet monthly. Board members serve for three-year terms. Officers are elected annually.

  • Kara Bacik, Chair - Senior Associate, Patriquin Architects. Kara has 17 years of experience in the Architectural, Engineering and Construction (AEC) industry. She is Co-Chair of the Board of Directors for the Construction Institute and Chairs their Education Committee.
  • Melissa Ferrucci, Treasurer - Office Managing Partner, CohnReznick LLP. Melissa serves as leader in the real estate practice for CohnReznick’s Connecticut offices and is involved with several professional groups.
  • Kathyann Cowles, Secretary - Architect, KC Architects, LLC. With over 35 years’ experience, Kathyann represents the interests of owners, designers, and contractors in various sectors.
  • Zoraida Ferguson, Immediate Past Chair - Associate Director of Facilities Engineering & Projects, Pratt & Whitney/UTC. Zoraida has 37 years of experience at Pratt & Whitney and is committed to educational endeavors.
  • Jim Cecil - Director of Business Development, A.P. Construction Company. Jim has nearly 20 years of experience in the AEC space and is known for his positive leadership.
  • Laura Cooley - Consultant, Founder of Developing Construction Leaders. Laura emphasizes the interaction of strategy, process, results, and people in her consulting work.
  • Kaitlyn Dobberfuhl, YPC Chair - Project Manager, Gilbane Building Company. Kaitlyn is actively involved in Employee Resource Groups and the Construction Institute’s planning committee for the AEC Leadership Conference.
  • George Fink - Managing Director, Berkeley Research Group (BRG). George has extensive experience in construction consulting and project management.
  • Lance Martin - Project Manager, BVH Integrated Services, a Salas O’Brien company. Lance focuses on sustainability and emerging technologies in construction.
  • Anthony Messina - Vice President, The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company. Tony coordinates efforts within the retail industry and is involved in the ICSC CenterBuild Conference Planning Committee.
  • Dawn Monde - Senior Vice President for Strategic Accounts/Client Services, Red Thread. Dawn oversees sales and design teams, focusing on innovative workplace solutions.
  • Erik Sanford - Director of MEP & VDC, Dellbrook|JKS. Erik specializes in Virtual Design and Construction and has been recognized for his leadership in digital construction practices.
  • Nancy Greenwald, Executive Director - Nancy has 38 years of experience as a lawyer and business executive in the AEC/FM industry and is the Executive Director of the Construction Institute.