The Massachusetts Budget and Policy Center (MassBudget) announces a leadership transition on its Board of Directors as our longtime Board President concludes their term in that role.
For 5 years, Dr. Alexandra Piñeros-Shields provided steady, thoughtful leadership as Board President during a period of significant growth and impact for MassBudget. Under their guidance, the Board strengthened its governance, deepened its commitment to equity, and supported the organization through critical moments. We are deeply grateful for their service, partnership, and unwavering belief in MassBudget’s mission to advance a more equitable Commonwealth.
“Serving as Board President of MassBudget has been an honor,” said Dr. Pineros Shields. “I am incredibly proud of the organization’s staff, partners, and fellow Board members, and of the role MassBudget continues to play in shaping economic and racial justice in Massachusetts. I look forward to continuing to support this vital work in the years ahead.”
While stepping down as Board President, Dr. Piñeros-Shields will continue to support MassBudget as a Board member, ensuring continuity and institutional knowledge during this transition. Dr. Piñeros-Shields also serves as Associate Professor of the Practice of Racial Equity at the Heller School of Social Policy at Brandeis University.
We are also pleased to welcome new Board leadership, including Marlishia Aho as Board President and Bianca Sigh-Ward as Vice President. Both bring a strong commitment to equity, sound public policy experience, and a tradition of collaborative leadership. Marlishia, the Regional Communications Manager for 1199SEIU United Healthcare Workers East, has served as Vice President of the Board of Directors for the past two years. Bianca, Chief Development Officer for the ACLU of Massachusetts, recently joined the Board in June 2025.
“I’m honored to step into this role at such an important moment for Massachusetts and the United States,” said Marlishia Aho. “MassBudget’s rigorous research and policy analysis and values-driven advocacy are essential to building a fully funded future where every resident of our Commonwealth can thrive. I’m excited to work alongside the Board and staff to advance policies that reflect our shared commitment to equity and opportunity.”
“The election of Marlishia Aho to MassBudget’s Board [President] further strengthens the alignment between 1199SEIU and MassBudget to advance policies and solutions that center working people,” said Cari Medina, 1199SEIU executive vice president. “MassBudget’s research has always honored diverse voices and lived experiences, making equity central to all they do. I look forward to the work ahead with Viviana Abreu-Hernandez and the Board to meet the moment we are in to create a Massachusetts that works for all.”
“I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve as Vice President,” said Bianca Sigh-Ward. “MassBudget’s work is critical to ensuring our public investments meet the needs of communities across the Commonwealth, and I look forward to supporting the organization’s mission in this new leadership role.”
MassBudget remains grounded in its mission and energized by the leadership of our Board as we move into this next chapter.
