Simon G. Pongratz:
Chair
As soon as Nancy & I moved to this South Boston neighborhood, downsizing from a big house in the suburbs four years ago, we were invited to join the WBNA Board. The core missions of the WBNA truly resonated with us and we really enjoy meeting our neighbors and making many new friends through this organization. We really enjoy working with all of the very talented WBNA board and advisory council members, and reaching out to neighbors while getting involved in community activities that help make this an even more vibrant and safer neighborhood for everyone.
In our spare time, Nancy and I enjoy world traveling, attending city events, exploring the local restaurant scene, and making new friends.
David Garten:
Vice Chair
Being involved and giving back to your community is a value that was instilled in me by my father, who grew up in South Boston. Although I grew up in the suburbs I have spent the majority of my adult life living in various Boston neighborhoods and have been actively involved in the civic organizations in each. Being a part of WBNA allows me to help maintain and expand on everything that makes this thriving neighborhood such an amazing place to live, work, and play.
Nancy Anderer Pongratz:
Board Member
My husband Simon and I moved to this South Boston neighborhood in August of 2018. After having spent the last 30 years together, and raising our daughter in the suburb of Needham we decided to downsize and take advantage of all this vibrant city has to offer.
I am the owner and founder of Boston Homestay Inc.; placing International doctors and students coming to study in Boston, with host families throughout the greater Boston area for nearly 30 years. I’ve also worked in Human Resources for an Engineering firm on Summer St and for a Real Estate Developer on several projects here in the city of Boston.
I've always been passionate about civic engagement, building community, and am grateful for my Boston roots having grown up here in the city.
Kathy Hutchins:
Board Member
As a recent transplant from NH, I was struck by the sense of community and the energy of South Boston I hadn't had in the suburbs. I realize this doesn't just happen by itself and WBNA is the driving force behind making this a beautiful and inclusive community: appreciating the richness of the history and the freshness of smart development. Of course, I wanted to be a part of this fine group. There's no "someone" should do this or that, it's the WBNA that makes this community such a great place to live and I'm grateful to be a part of it.
Andrew Chang: Board Member
I chose Southie as my new home in 2018 after growing up in the suburbs of Massachusetts. This choice has proven to be one of the best decisions I've ever made. This neighborhood has so many great people, so much to do, and I am grateful to be a part of it. I am involved in the world of technology while also actively supporting initiatives that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion. I hope to bring my experiences, fresh ideas, and diverse perspectives to enhance the aspects I love about our neighborhood. Witnessing the ongoing transformations in the community and actively participating in the numerous events organized by the WBNA has made me feel like a valued member of this vibrant neighborhood and a place I'm happy to call home.
Angela Kyn: Advisory Council Member
(Social Media)
South Boston is vibrant with a unique character due to its rich history, landmarks, beaches, a thriving restaurant scene along with global and local businesses that call Southie home. And most importantly a strong community spirit that can’t be denied. My goal through social media is to build upon WBNA’s ongoing fostering and positive impact through community awareness and engagement, story telling, collaboration and to share with the world what a wonderful neighborhood we live in. I’m proud to be a part of WBNA and the dynamic community we live in.
Jennifer Hyslip: Advisory Council Member (Marketing)
After five years in the Big Apple, I made the move back to my roots in Massachusetts. I grew up in the burbs of north of Boston, but knew that city life was a non-negotiable, and moving to South Boston back in 2017, I knew I found my new HOME.
I cannot say enough about my positive experience living in South Boston and have been lucky enough to witness how much the neighborhood is evolving and improving right in front of my eyes. Since I started attending WBNA meetings and learning more about what we stand for, I can’t help but to be excited and optimistic about the improvements and impact the WBNA, the members, and neighbors alike can bring to life. As someone who has been in media and marketing for nearly 12 years, I am thrilled to bring my innovative thinking and fresh thinking from the ‘millennial’ mindset to WBNA, only adding to the tremendous talent and dedication this association is built on. I want my neighbors and neighborhood to continue to thrive and attract happy, welcoming, and interesting people – let’s have some fun, brainstorm, think of big ideas, and make it happen. If you see Jenn walking her 105lb gray/black Great Dane Phoebe, don’t shy away from striking up a conversation (I promise, Phoebe is harmless ) :-).