Jenifer Dunlap

Started at MVPC: 1995

Jenifer is responsible for any and all financial activities including accounts payable, accounts receivable, job costing, billing, payroll, general ledger, financial statement preparation and analysis, forecasting and budgeting.

Prior to joining MVPC, she worked from April 1989 to June 1995 as General Ledger Accounting Manager/Assistant to the Controller at National Education Training Group – Spectrum, Bedford, MA. NETG-Spectrum employs 200 who work to provide multimedia solutions for large corporations’ business concerns. Jenifer also worked from 1984-1988 (part-time) and 1988-1989 (full-time) as Bookkeeper/Office Manager at Christiansen and Sergi, Inc., Haverhill, MA. Christiansen and Sergi Inc. provides professional civil engineering and land surveying services.

Education: BS in Business, Bentley College (1988)

Joseph Barmashi

Started at MVPC: 2022

As a GIS Specialist, Joseph supports the GIS and Information Technology department at MVPC with building and maintaining geospatial databases, as well as using ArcGIS Pro and other Esri tools to perform spatial analyses. His work contributes to our communities by supporting their planning initiatives and the many mapping needs they require.

Prior to joining the MVPC team, Joseph earned his M.S at the University of Massachusetts Amherst by completing the Geographic Information Science and Technology (GIST) program. He has experience in land suitability analysis and hazard mitigation mapping among other cartographic techniques. He also earned his B.S in Geography, Planning, and Sustainability at Westfield State University in Westfield, MA, where he gained essential knowledge of the problems that community planners face and developed skills such as site plan reading and quantitative methods for data analysis.

Hanna Mogensen

Started at MVPC: 2022

As the Coastal Resource Planner, Hanna supports MVPC’s Environmental Planning Program and Massachusetts Bay’s National Estuary Partnership Regional Coordination Program through a number of initiatives including: water resource management, stormwater assessment and mitigation, coastal and estuarine habitat assessment and restoration, open space and recreation planning, and hazard mitigation planning. Through her role, Hanna works to facilitate collaboration and promote protection of critical habitats and sustainable use of natural resources within the Merrimack Valley.

Before joining MVPC, Hanna worked with many of the communities within the Valley, first as a research technician supporting the Hurricane Sandy Resiliency Grant in the Great Marsh, and then as the Chief Program Officer at Terracorps, a non-profit environmental organization based in Lowell. Most recently, Hanna has been working to obtain her Master’s in Marine Biology from the University of New Hampshire, where her research has focused on studying how coastal flooding and storm events impact microplastic presence within New England estuaries. To this role, Hanna brings environmental restoration and management experience, knowledge of our coastal communities, and a deep connection and commitment to our region.

Hanna lives in Topsfield with her partner and their two crazy pups! When not working, you can find her lost in the garden, mountain biking, swimming, backcountry skiing, or adventuring around the region.

Cece Gerstanbacher

Started at MVPC: 2022

As the Environmental Planner, Cece is responsible for assisting MVPC with the implementation of regional environmental programming in Clean Energy, Stormwater Management, Climate Resiliency, and Hazard Mitigation. Cece’s work provides direct support to the environmental program through plan preparation, grant applications, educational outreach, collaboration, and research. Her role supports the protection and sustainable use of the Merrimack Valley’s prime natural resources that are critically important to the region’s character, economic vitality, and quality of life.  

Prior to joining the MVPC, Cece was a master’s student at Boston University where she studied microplastic accumulation and impacts in Massachusetts eelgrass ecosystems in collaboration with several local environmental entities. She also attended BU for her Bachelor of Arts in conservation ecology, where she was a division one sprinter for their track and field team, heavily involved in local marine conservation research and scientific communication. Cece brings to the table hands-on experience working collaboratively on regionally relevant environmental concerns, as well as a passion for environmental conservation and a love for New England.  

In her spare time, Cece enjoys any activity by or in the ocean, cooking, powerlifting, and fostering special needs cats.

Peter Phippen

Started at MVPC: 2002

Peter coordinates and provides technical assistance to the Eight Towns and the Great Marsh Massachusetts Bays Program Local Governance Committee for the nine communities of the upper north shore to improve the conditions of Massachusetts Bay, including working with local officials and citizens to promote coastal stewardship; facilitating the development of coastal environmental initiatives, implementing outreach and education strategies; and the development of grant proposals to public and private sources to fund coastal restoration and protection projects.

Daniel Ovalle

Started at MVPC: 2000

Danny oversees and conducts transportation and environmental data collection studies. Transportation data collection projects include Automatic Traffic Recorder (ATR) studies, Intersection Turning Movement Counts (TMC), Park and Ride Surveys, Regional Bus Transportation Data Collection, Pavement Management Analysis, GPS Data Collection, as well as a variety of environmental data collection projects.

Prior to joining MVPC, Danny was employed with Andover Consultants, Inc. – Methuen, MA as a Land Surveyor, providing Land Surveying Services such as Boundary Surveys, Topographic Surveys, Land Court Surveys and As-Built Surveys.

Jodie Furey

Started at MVPC: 2023

As MVPC’s Office Administrator and Communications Specialist, Jodie is often the first face you see at the Commission offices and the first voice you hear when reaching out for assistance. Jodie supports the Commission board of its members and MVPC’s four program areas and their staff as well as the Executive Director and Finance Director. Jodie is responsible for coordinating all Commission communication and the sharing of information through its social media platforms. Jodie’s vast knowledge of our agency’s programs and its region will allow her to quickly point you in the right direction for all your planning needs.

Prior to joining MVPC, Jodie worked for the City of Methuen for over 10 years, both in the School System and most recently as the head clerk for the Conservation Commission and Zoning Board. Jodie brings her extensive municipal experience to bear when assisting in the coordination of our municipal services and resources.

Areas of Expertise: Commission and agency administration, MVPC website resources, general assistance and resources

Jerrard Whitten

Started at MVPC: 1995

Jerrard has been a key contributor to the Merrimack Valley Planning Commission for 26 years and has extensive experience in community planning, economic development, environmental management, information technology, and transportation systems. Prior to being named Executive Director, he served as the Geographic Information System and Information Technology Manager. 

In the years preceding his role as Geographic Information System and Information Technology Manager, Jerrard served as an Environmental Planner for the Merrimack Valley Planning Commission, as an Economic Development/Information Technology Consultant for Inteco in Caguas, Puerto Rico, and as a Project Manager for Jackson Estuarine Laboratory in Durham, N.H. Though many know Jerrard as a strong advocate for the communities and dedicated staff member to the Planning Commission, it isn’t all work and no play! When he isn’t advocating for the agency, showcasing the latest technologies, or brainstorming solutions for municipal challenges, Jerrard is an avid outdoorsman and can be found enjoying the breadth of the wonderful natural resources the region has to offer.  

Jerrard is Newbury MA resident. He is a graduate of the University of New Hampshire with a Master of Science in Resource Administration and Management and a Bachelor of Science in Resource Economics.

Stephen Lopez

Started at MVPC: 2006

Stephen is responsible for overseeing MVPC’s GIS program. He helps maintain the Commission’s Geographic Information System (GIS) and coordinates IT activities related to the Commission’s staff.  Prior to joining MVPC, Stephen worked as a Regional Planner with Central New Hampshire Regional Planning Commission. While there, his responsibilities included a variety of GIS, transportation, and environmental planning projects. Stephen’s past experiences also include working with the NH Merrimack County Conservation District as an AmeriCorps volunteer, and working for the NH Fish and Game Department Marine Fisheries Division, as a Biological Technician.

Mikayla Minor

Started at MVPC: 2018

Mikayla supports the Commission’s GIS program through data development, map and application creation, and spatial analyses.  Her work includes helping to maintain the Commission’s GIS to support internal, local and regional planning initiatives. In addition, she helps support the Commission’s staff with IT related activities.

Prior to joining MVPC, Mikayla worked as a biogeochemical research assistant for the Earth Systems Research Center at the University of New Hampshire (UNH) while pursuing her B.S in Environmental Conservation and Sustainability. Her work at UNH also included GIS-based modeling of the potential infrastructure impacts from sea level rise in coastal New Hampshire.

Ian Burns

Started at MVPC: 2021

As the Targeted Economic Development Specialist, Ian supports the implementation of the region’s Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) and Targeted Economic Development Strategy (TEDS) for Lawrence, Andover, and North Andover. Ian’s role will support MVPC’s work to strengthen key economic clusters in Lawrence, Andover, and North Andover within the larger, regional economy.

Born and raised in the Merrimack Valley, Ian is passionate about creating positive change on a local and regional level. Ian previously worked with Groundwork Lawrence as a Public Affairs Coordinator, furthering the organization’s community development initiatives by advocating for policy changes on the state and federal level. He has a master’s degree in public affairs from Merrimack College and a Bachelor of Arts from Assumption College. Ian’s experience growing up and working in the region position him as a valuable addition to the MVPC team.

In his spare time, Ian enjoys hiking throughout New England, catching a Red Sox game, or perfecting his bread baking.

Lauren Keisling

Started at MVPC: 2022

As the Community Planner, Lauren supports a wide array of department and agency projects, with emphasis on regional land use and housing production plans for member communities. Lauren brings extensive experience in community engagement and facilitation in the public health field to the role, specifically in overdose prevention, and comes to MVPC from Boston Medical Center where she served the Lowell community through the NIH MA HEALing Communities Study.

Lauren received her undergraduate degree from UMASS Lowell, and all of her professional work before MVPC was in the City of Lowell. Lauren has a particular interest in finding the intersection between planning and public health. She is committed to amplifying and uplifting community voices to strive toward meaningful equity in the revitalization and future of local communities.

Lauren spends her free time being a dog mom, tending to her plants, exploring urban and natural landscapes, and drinking all the coffee she can find. She currently attends Boston University in pursuit of a master’s degree in Urban Affairs through the City Planning & Urban Affairs Graduate program.

Tony Collins

Started at MVPC: 2022

As the Transportation Planner, Tony is focused on planning initiatives and projects that focus on the intersection of housing and mobility. Tony also supports improving public outreach and engagement of the transportation program.

Prior to working at MVPC, Tony worked for the Town of Andover as Associate Planner where he worked on transportation projects, created new avenues for community involvement, and supported housing strategies. He is finishing up his Master of Urban and Environmental Policy and Planning degree at Tufts University, he has received a master’s degree and Bachelor of Arts degree from Merrimack College. Tony is passionate about planning for people and projects that strengthen social capital.

Outside of planning, Tony enjoys hiking with his family, day trips into Boston on the commuter rail, and playing tennis.

Kayla Rennie

Started at MVPC: 2022

As a Community & Economic Development Planner for MVPC, Kayla supports a variety of department and agency projects such as the region’s Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) and Housing Production Plan (HPP). She has a passion for community planning, affordable housing, and guiding local municipalities toward sustainable growth.

Prior to joining MVPC, Kayla worked as a Research Assistant for the Mayor of Haverhill and helped coordinate the city’s Master Plan committee. She then went on to travel around the country as a field operative on several political campaigns. During the Covid-19 crisis, Kayla returned home to work for the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance program. She has earned a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Merrimack College and looks forward to getting a Master’s degree someday.

Born and raised in the Merrimack Valley, Kayla currently resides in downtown Haverhill. In her free time she enjoys being a cat mom, walking the numerous trails in the valley, and hanging out with friends downtown.

Patrick Reed

Started at MVPC: 2023

As the Transportation Program Manager Patrick will be responsible for organizing and maintaining the Transportation work program including the Regional Transportation Plan, our partnership with MeVa, Merrimack Valley’s Regional Transit authority, the Transportation Improvement Plan, our Traffic Counting initiatives and much more.

Jonah Williams

Started at MVPC: 2023

As a Regional Mobility Planner, Jonah supports MVPC’s transportation planning efforts through GIS mapping and data analysis and focuses on improving transportation options throughout the region.

Prior to joining MVPC, Jonah completed a Master of Urban Planning and Policy degree at Northeastern University and worked in the MBTA and MassDOT’s Office of Performance Management and Innovation as a Spatial Analysis Assistant. Before that, he graduated with a degree in Urban Studies from Vassar College and worked for an education nonprofit called Playworks, promoting physical activity and social-emotional learning in Boston Public Schools. Jonah is passionate about creating healthy communities and promoting sustainable modes of transportation.

Outside of work, Jonah loves spending time outside and enjoys running, riding his bike, and hiking.

Sarah Reny

Started at MVPC: 2023

As a GIS Analyst, Sarah supports the GIS program through spatial data development and analysis, map creation, and web-based app development. Her role supports internal, local, and regional planning initiatives and their wide variety of mapping needs.

Before joining MVPC, Sarah earned her Master’s in Natural Resources Environmental Conversation and Sustainability at the University of New Hampshire. Her research focused on forest inventory biometric estimation using unpiloted aerial system- light detection and ranging (UAS-LiDAR) and UAS-photogrammetry. To this role, Sarah brings a Federal Aviation Administration Part 107 drone pilot license, imagery and LiDAR data analysis skills, and knowledge of the changing New England climate. Prior to graduate school, she earned her B.A. in Biological Sciences from the University of New Hampshire Manchester and worked as an environmental consultant for Vanasse Hangen-Brustlin.

Sarah lives in southern New Hampshire and enjoys spending her spare time with her dog, family, and friends.

Jennifer Arndt

Started at MVPC: 2023

As Merrimack Valley Arts and Culture Specialist under ECCF and MVPC’s MVCulture pilot program, Jenny liaises between municipal leaders and planning staff, and the individual artists, creative entrepreneurs, local cultural councils, arts associations, cultural groups, and business groups that make up the arts and culture sector of the valley. During MVCulture‘s pilot year, Jenny will identify opportunities for impactful investments and advancements in cultural planning as well as the inclusion of these groups within the planning efforts of the Merrimack Valley Region.

Jenny is a local artist and community organizer with a background in creative placemaking and art-based nonprofits. She has a Bachelor of Fine Arts with a concentration in painting from UMass Amherst.

In her free time, she enjoys making collage art, riding rollercoasters, and spending time with her husband, two children, and her dog, a giant Leonberger, Rory.

Elizabeth Maldari

Started at MVPC: 2023

Elizabeth Maldari is a Regional Mobility Planner and Engagement Specialist in the Transportation Program at MVPC. She works in collaboration with municipalities in the Merrimack Valley to create a plan for zero traffic-related deaths and injuries, also known as a Vision Zero Plan. Elizabeth previously lived in Los Angeles without a car and embraced multi-modal transportation in a car-centric city. This lived experience instilled a commitment to maintaining a high level of stakeholder participation and partnership in all transportation planning activities.

In 2022, Elizabeth graduated with a master’s degree in Eco-Social Design from the Free University of Bolzano. As part of her thesis, Elizabeth worked with the Town of Andover’s Commission on Disabilities and Planning and Land Use Division to research and write a Master Plan for Access and ADA Compliance along the Shawsheen River. In her free time, Elizabeth enjoys making her own clothes and finding new ways to get around.