North Shore Community Development Names New Chief Executive Officer

SALEM, MA — Felicia Pierce, who began working for the North Shore Community Development Coalition as the director of its YouthBuild program and has served as chief program officer and deputy chief executive officer in recent years, has been named the new CEO of the organization that helps direct resources into low-income or distressed neighborhoods across the North Shore.

She replaces Mickey Northcutt, who said this past fall he will resign as the CEO after 18 years. Pierce will assume her new role effective on June 1.

Pierce is credited with growing YouthBuild from a fledgling program into an award-winning, nationally recognized affiliate. She was recognized as National YouthBuild Director of the Year in 2018.

The selection committee cited Pierce's ability to build community within the organization and to break down department silos to create new, dynamic programming. She was considered instrumental in partnering with Northcutt to develop Harbor Crossing as the region's first permanent affordable housing for unhoused youth and those who have aged out of foster care.

"Her passion for our mission and drive is reflective of her natural leadership and the respect she has earned internally and externally over her nine years with North Shore CDC," the North Shore CDC said in announcing the promotion.

Northcutt leaves as the founding CEO having grown the North Shore CDC's portfolio to 474 affordable homes across four communities along with the establishment of the Punto Urban Art Museum in Salem.