Board of Directors

David is the Director of Sports Events at Conventures, Inc. He oversees the management of more than 40 events a year, ranging from small charity walks to 9,000 person road races to parades that attract over half a million spectators. David has also been the Director of Operations for two Congressional Medal of Honor Conventions and helps produce the Boston Marine Corps Birthday Luncheon annually. Over the course of 10 years at Conventures, the events that he has helped produce have raised over twenty million dollars for charitable organizations. David graduated from St. Lawrence University, where he played Division 1 hockey. In his spare time, you can find David out and about at different events around the city with his wife Janelle, who is the publisher of Boston Common Magazine.

Jennifer Deluca is a tireless advocate for veterans and their families. She has served as the executive director of the Fisher House of Boston since September of 2010.

No one works harder to embody the Fisher House mission to “ease the burden of military veterans and their families during illness or injury by providing a home away from home” than Jennifer. In her work to spread awareness of the Fisher House of Boston mission, she has proven time and again that she is a true servant to those who have served our country.

As Executive Director of Fisher House of Boston, Jennifer’s passion for the cause is infectious and has helped to grow the organization since its inception. Under her direction, Fisher House of Boston was able to build a base of support necessary to assist the families of active duty military and veterans receiving inpatient care at the VA in West Roxbury. In her role, she oversees all aspects of operations, engages in awareness raising and advocacy, and manages fundraising and donor relations. She is committed to ensuring the organization meets all financial requirements in complete transparency and fiscal responsibility while maintaining a high level of service to as many active duty military and veterans and their families as possible.

In addition to her day-to-day responsibilities at the helm of the organization, Jennifer is a visionary who spearheaded the creation of the unique Fisher House of Boston Hotel Program, a Fisher House initiative unique to the Boston area. Jennifer created this program in 2014 after realizing that many of our active duty and veteran service members were not only being treated at the VA Campus Hospital but were instead receiving care at Boston’s world-renowned hospitals. Recognizing the overwhelming need to relieve the stress placed on military families coming to Boston for hospital care, Jennifer and her team created the Hotel Program to cover the cost of a hotel stay for those families, placing them as close to the hospital treating their family member as possible. The Fisher House of Boston Hotel Program has grown over 523% since its first year, reaching even more families in their time of need.

Jennifer’s understanding of the veteran community, as well as her extensive network within Boston’s private, public and political sectors, makes her uniquely qualified to manage a nonprofit organization that provides a critical service to so many individuals and families throughout the year. She is intimately acquainted with the sacrifices made by those who serve this Great Nation and is ready and willing to sacrifice for them as they sacrificed for us. Her singular focus is on ensuring that no military family is left wanting and that every person the organization serves finds comfort, healing, and peace.

Jennifer resides in Norfolk, MA with her husband Patrick, son Michael, daughter Abigail and son-in- law Brandon.

Jennifer is also the recipient of the Department of the Army Meritorious Civilian Service Award, the AETC 2021 Zachary & Elizabeth Fisher Distinguished Civilian Humanitarian Award and is a proud Honorary Plankowner for the USS Thomas Hudner DDG116.

Abigail DeLuca, MHS, BSN, RN, is a Medical Surgical Nurse, with over 3 years of experience, working with the Fisher House of Boston. She received a Bachelors of Science in Nursing from UMass Boston in 2019, then went on to receive a Masters in Health Science at Massachusetts College of Pharmacy And Health Science in 2022.

From an early age, Abigail knew she wanted to chart a career path in serving people. Beginning her tenure volunteering with the Fisher House of Boston as a teenager, she rose to become the Director of Operations of the non-profit organization in January 2022. Abigail has built a reputation as an empathetic listener who is solution-oriented and laser-focused on every task she undertakes. She is passionate about holistically caring for patients and their families by meeting their diverse needs beyond medical care.

Abigail currently resides in Boston with her husband, a US Army Veteran she met while volunteering for Fisher House of Boston. She takes great pride in serving her community and being part of the Fisher House of Boston family!

Commander Gerosa was born and raised in New Rochelle, New York. He is a 1990 graduate of Iona Preparatory School and graduated from Providence College in May 1994 with a Bachelor’s Degree in History. He was selected to attend Naval Officer Candidate School and upon completion was commissioned an Ensign in September 1997.

He was first assigned to USS Nassau (LHA-4) from 1998 to 2000 as the main propulsion division officer and electrical officer. During his tenure, Nassau deployed to the Mediterranean Sea and supported NATO operations during the Kosovo Campaign. In May 2000, Commander Gerosa transferred to the guided-missile destroyer USS Ramage (DDG-61) as the combat information center officer and assistant operations officer. Following the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks Ramage was the first ship in the Atlantic Fleet to sortie off the East Coast of the United States to provide extended missile defense and radar coverage for Washington D.C. and New York City. Ramage went on to deploy overseas in support of Operations Noble Eagle and Enduring Freedom.

In March 2003 he was selected as a lieutenant to attend the United States Naval War College in Newport, R.I. He graduated in June 2004 where he was awarded a Masters of Arts Degree in National Security and Strategic Studies. In March 2005 he reported to USS Whidbey Island (LSD-41) as the first lieutenant. In the wake of Hurricane Katrina, Whidbey Island became part of Task Force Katrina and conducted Humanitarian and Disaster Relief assistance in the Gulf States. In July 2006, he transferred to Amphibious Squadron Two/Bataan Expeditionary Strike Group as the staff operations officer/N3. He also served as the amphibious staff officer for CTF 51/59 at NAVCENT.

Commander Gerosa’s shore assignments include: director operations and support for the Naval War College International Programs, aide-de-camp for the director of Expeditionary Warfare OPNAV Staff, in-service amphibious ships resource officer, and Expeditionary Warfare lead instructor at Surface Warfare Officers School.

In August 2015, Commander Gerosa assumed command of USS Constitution, America’s Ship of State, as the ship’s 74th Commanding Officer. He oversaw the multi-year restoration period and the ship being re-floated in July 2017. During his tenure as Commanding Officer, CONSTITUTION earned its sixth Meritorious Unit Commendation.

Upon completion of his tour as Commanding Officer he reported to the Chief of Naval Operations Staff (OPNAV) in Washington, D.C. for his final assignment prior to retiring in December 2019 after a 22 year Naval career.

Commander Gerosa has been awarded the Meritorious Service Medal (four awards), Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (four awards), the Army Commendation Medal, the Air Force Commendation Medal, the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (four awards), the Army Achievement Medal, and various other service and campaign awards.

He is married to the former Michele L. Dinsmore of Warwick, Rhode Island. They have one daughter, Emily and a son Robert. Upon retirement they settled in Marlborough, Massachusetts.

Gary J. Comeau, (A.F.& A.M.) has served the Fisher House of Boston’s Board of Directors since 2020. Prior to his appointment on this Board, he served in the United States Army in both the Active Component and Army National Guard, retiring as a Command Sergeant Major.

Gary’s professional military education includes graduation from the United States Army Sergeant’s Major Academy, First Sergeant’s Course, Advanced Non-Commissioned Officer Course, Army and Marine Corps Basic Non-Commissioned Officer Course, and Primary Leadership Development Course. He is a graduate of the U.S. Army Ranger Course, Airborne and Air Assault Schools, Total Army Instructor Development School and many other courses.

His military service includes operations in Afghanistan, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Iraq, Korea, Central Asian States and other nations. Among Gary’s listed military awards are the Legion of Merit Award, Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medals, and Army Commendation Medals. Gary’s service decorations include the Ranger Tab, the Combat Infantryman Badge, Combat Action Badge, Parachute and Air Assault Badges, and is an inductee to the Order of Saint Maurice.

Gary is a proud alum of Norwich University, where he earned his Master’s degree in Leadership as well as Endicott College, where he obtained his Bachelor’s degree in Psychology. He is active in the Veteran community, as a lifetime member of the Disabled American Veterans Association and National Infantry Association.

He lives with his family in North Andover, Massachusetts, where he is currently serves the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Gary’s indelible passion for the welfare of America’s military families drives his commitment to this Board of Directors in support of the mission of the Fisher House of Boston.

Steven was appointed as a member of the Board of Directors of Fisher House of Boston in 2019 after volunteering for several years. He brings a wealth of experience from his diverse background in Law Enforcement to support the organization’s mission of giving back to veterans and their families.

A Bridgewater, MA native, Steven graduated from Weymouth South High School in 1981and enlisted in the USMC on September 27, 1982, in Paris Island, SC. He attended the Infantry Training School Camp Geiger, NC, MOS 0311, where he honed his infantry skills in preparation for a career in the Marine Corps. He had a remarkable career, serving as a Member of Second Platoon, Company C, in the Battalion Landing Team 1/8, 24th Marine Amphibious Unit and the Multi-National Peacekeeping Force, Beirut, Lebanon, from May 21, 1983, to November 26, 1983. Additionally, Steven worked as a Marine Security Guard from July 1984 to December 1986, serving in Budapest, Hungary and Caracas, Venezuela.

In June 1988, Steven was posted to the Massachusetts State Police and later assigned to the State Police Barracks South Yarmouth from 1988 to 1992. He worked at the State Police Detective Unit, Plymouth County, tasked with investigating Narcotics, Homicide & Computer Crimes from 1992 to 2001. A certified Dive Master, he served as a Member of the State Police Dive Team for 10 years and was assigned to the State Police Motorcycle Unit in 2001. In 2008, Steven was promoted to the Sergeant rank due to his exemplary performance and continued to serve the community zealously. On July 13, 2021, Steven took an Honorable Retirement from Mass State Police after a long, varied career marked by integrity, dedication and courage.

Steven’s stellar service did not go unrecognized, as he received several awards and recognitions throughout his career. He was awarded a Letter of Commendation from Commander Sixth Fleet Marine Corp Expeditionary Medal, Sea Service Ribbon, Naval Unit Commendation, Good Conduct Medal, and Combat Action Ribbon.

Steven holds a Bachelor of Science in Law Enforcement from Western New England College. A devoted family man, he has been married to Stephani for over 27 years, and together, they have a son, Garrett, 24 years old, a graduate of Massachusetts Maritime Academy and a daughter Chloe, 20 years old, a Sophomore at MCPHS.

Steven is excited to be working with equally-minded individuals to make a difference in the lives of veterans and their families.

Brian O’Leary is a member of the Board of Directors at Fisher House of Boston. He is a respected financial services management professional with 12 years of experience in financial services management. Currently, he is the Principal/Financial Advisor at Semper Financial Group, LLC, where he oversees the implementation of financial strategies and leads a team of financial sales professionals. Brian was previously a Partner at New York Life, gaining a unique skill set in analyzing investment and overseeing diverse teams. He wields a deep understanding of the delicate balance it takes to bring a business approach to the non-profit environment.

Brian served in the United States Marine Corps as an Infantry / Squad Leader and was honorably discharged. A decorated veteran, he was awarded the Marine Corps Expeditionary Medal and Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal for combat deployment during the US Invasion of Panama. He also received the Meritorious Mast for personal performance beyond the standard requirements of duty and the 4th Award Rifle Expert Badge, Pistol Expert, and Sea Service Ribbon. His military experience, coupled with his history of effective leadership in the financial industry, has shaped him into a solutions oriented professional who consistently delivers exceptional results. Brian combines his intellectual curiosity and strong analytical skills to manage the uncertainties of today’s dynamic business environment. 

His commitment to community impact, coupled with his experience overseeing successful organizational pursuits, make Brian a valuable addition to the Fisher House of Boston Board. Additionally, he previously served as a Coach and Board Member of the Bridgewater Badgers Youth Football and the President of the Old Colony Youth Football League.

With his vision well aligned with the organization, he holds an optimistic view that Fisher House of Boston will achieve an even greater impact on veterans and their families over the years. He is honored and grateful to be a member of the Fisher House of Boston organization. 

Justin Fisher, CPA joined the Fisher House of Boston in 2015.  He oversees all aspects of the organization’s finances, including development and management of budgets, preparation of the financial statements and managing the organizations finance and accounting cycles.  Mr. Fisher brings over 20 years of experience in management, finance and accounting in private, public and non-profit sectors.  Mr. Fisher currently works at Alder Foods, Inc., a food distribution company that distributes grocery products to the military commissaries world-wide, where he has served as Controller since 2013.  Prior to Alder Foods, Mr. Fisher has also served as Finance and Accounting Manager for RTI Biologics, Inc. in Alachua, FL from 2009 to 2013 and Senior Accountant for Flanders Filters, Inc. in St. Petersburg, FL from 2003 to 2009.

Mr. Fisher holds a Bachelor of Science from the University of South Florida and is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in the state of Florida.

Mr. Fisher and his wife Nicole reside in Pawtucket, RI with their children Dalton and Emmerson.

Ryan Pitts was born on October 1, 1985 in Lowell, Massachusetts and grew up in Southern New Hampshire. In 2003, he enlisted in the Army at the age of 17 under the delayed entry program. He attended basic training and advanced individual training at Ft. Sill, Oklahoma.

Pitts attended the U.S. Army Airborne School at Fort Benning, Ga., before being assigned as a radio telephone operator for the 4th Battalion, 319th Field Artillery Regiment and 173rd Airborne Brigade at Camp Ederle, Italy from 2004-2005. He remained headquartered at Camp Ederle as part of the 2nd Battalion, 503rd Infantry Regiment, 173rd Airborne Brigade from 2006 to 2009.

While assigned to the 173rd, Pitts deployed twice to Afghanistan. His first deployment in 2005 lasted 12 months. His final deployment spanned 15 months beginning in 2007. Pitts departed the active-duty Army in 2009 at the rank of Staff Sergeant.

Ryan Pitts was awarded the Medal of Honor for actions in Afghanistan on July 13, 2008, when a well-organized Anti-Afghan Force consisting of over 200 members initiated a close proximity sustained and complex assault against 49 Americans occupying Wanat Vehicle Patrol Base. An immediate wave of rocket-propelled grenade rounds engulfed the Observation Post wounding Pitts and inflicting heavy casualties. Pitts had been knocked to the ground and was bleeding heavily from shrapnel wounds to his arm and legs, but with incredible toughness and resolve, he subsequently took control of the observation post and returned fire on the enemy. As the enemy drew nearer, Sergeant Pitts threw grenades, holding them after the pin was pulled and the safety lever was released to allow a nearly immediate detonation on the hostile forces. Unable to stand on his own and near death because of the severity of his wounds and blood loss, Pitts continued to lay suppressive fire until a two-man reinforcement team arrived. He quickly assisted them by giving up his main weapon and gathering ammunition all while continually lobbing fragmentary grenades until these were expended. At this point, Pitts crawled to the northern position radio and described the situation to the command post as the enemy continued to try and isolate the Observation Post from the main Patrol Base. With the enemy close enough for him to hear their voices and with total disregard for his own life, Pitts whispered in radio situation reports and conveyed information that the Command Post used to provide indirect fire support. Pitts’ courage, steadfast commitment to the defense of his unit and ability to fight while seriously wounded prevented the enemy from overrunning the observation post and capturing fallen American soldiers, and ultimately prevented the enemy from gaining fortified positions on higher ground from which to attack Wanat Vehicle Patrol Base.

His civilian education includes a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business from the University of New Hampshire. He currently resides New Hampshire with his family.

Elaine Boyle is a licensed independent clinical social worker (LICSW) at Mass General Brigham in Boston. She is a graduate of Fairfield University and Salem State University. Elaine has spent her career as a social worker in healthcare and understands firsthand the impact of the presence of family members in the healing of patients in the hospital. She has worked with countless families who needed a place to stay closer to their loved one. In describing her relationship with Jennifer Deluca and Fisher House Boston: “It’s life changing having a hotel or apartment nearby for veterans’ and military families who need a safe place to stay close to the hospital . . . as Jen has said, it is the least we can do for the men and women who have sacrificed so much to protect our country.” Elaine is the proud daughter of a Korean War Veteran who served in the United States Army from 1951-1953.

The Fisher House Boston is there to ease the burden of our Veterans and their families during difficult times. To serve those who have served. Our mission is to be responsive to the needs of our guests and go above and beyond what the VA can provide. We strive to meet the basic comfort needs of our guests, during some of the most difficult times in our guest lives, as well as, enhance the healing and supportive environment of the house. Additionally, for those requiring medical attention that can only be provided by the Boston based hospitals, The Fisher House Boston will enable you to stay in a Boston hotel until the medical necessity has been satisfied.

The Fisher House Boston is there to ease the burden of our Veterans and their families during difficult times. To serve those who have served. Our mission is to be responsive to the needs of our guests and go above and beyond what the VA can provide. We strive to meet the basic comfort needs of our guests, during some of the most difficult times in our guest lives, as well as, enhance the healing and supportive environment of the house. Additionally, for those requiring medical attention that can only be provided by the Boston based hospitals, The Fisher House Boston will enable you to stay in a Boston hotel until the medical necessity has been satisfied.