Our Team

Diana Alas was born in Honduras and moved to Naples along with her family at an early age. A Naples resident for over 16 years and graduate of Collier County Public schools, Diana has a deep-rooted commitment to the community and a passion for supporting educational opportunities. As the grants compliance and systems coordinator at the NCF, Diana plays a key role in ensuring that the foundation’s programs and funding initiatives align with compliance standards and continue to empower children in the region.

She is a University of Florida alumnus, where she earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Digital Arts and Sciences. Throughout her time as a college student, Diana honed her leadership and organizational skills as the secretary of the Women in Electrical and Computer Engineering organization, where she led outreach programs encouraging young girls to pursue careers in STEM fields. Her dedication to education was also evident in high school, where she served as president of the National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta Math Club and Academic Scholar Bowl organizations. Participating in these after school programs not only allowed her to immerse herself in local culture and activities, but also opened her eyes to all the ways participating in these programs enrich children’s lives and propel them to succeed in both their personal and academic endeavors.

While in college, Diana balanced school and work, and attained five years of internship experience throughout her undergrad years. She worked with GE Aviation for one year and Bank of America for four years, with roles as a data analyst and software engineer, where she was able to develop the skills she hopes to implement in her current role. She is excited to be joining the amazing team at NCF and make a significant and positive impact in the lives of many of our local children.

Due to her academic and professional background, Diana is uniquely connected to the mission of NCF, which is to foster educational access and opportunities for children in the Naples community. Through her work, she strives to make a lasting impact on the next generation of learners and leaders in our community.

Diana Aviles is a passionate and accomplished individual whose professional journey is marked by dedication and commitment to positive change. Born in Maui, Hawaii, but raised in Naples, Florida, Diana’s early years were characterized by an insatiable curiosity and a thirst for knowledge that would eventually propel her to great heights.

With a strong academic foundation from Florida SouthWestern State College, Diana’s professional experience is marked with progressive advancement and promotion. Her professional trajectory is characterized by a relentless pursuit of excellence and an unwavering dedication to making a meaningful impact on her work. After several years’ experience in administrative support, managerial and project coordination positions, Diana is perfectly poised to take on the position of Administrative Coordinator with NCF.

Beyond her professional achievements, Diana is a staunch advocate for helping the community. She believes in using her talents and influence to effect positive change in the world, and she has been involved in various philanthropic endeavors, including DAS, Key Club, etc. In addition to her philanthropic work, Diana is passionate about her family, traveling and her dog, Shadow. She finds joy in sharing her knowledge and experiences with her professional peers.

Diana Aviles’ story is a testament to the power of determination, innovation and a commitment to making the world a better place. Her journey continues to inspire and motivate others to pursue their dreams and create positive changes in the world.

Maddie Blasco serves as the Community Engagement Manager at NCF, where she acts as a bridge between the Grants and Marketing departments. In this role, she transforms the data and stories gathered through grant reporting into compelling marketing and communications that highlight the Foundation’s impact. Maddie leads a range of community relations efforts, ensuring the successes of nearly 60 beneficiary organizations and strategic initiative partners are effectively shared with the broader community.

Maddie earned her bachelor’s degree in public relations and Master’s in Professional Writing from Chatham University cultivating a robust foundation in communication, strategic messaging and media dynamics. Maddie made the transition from her hometown in Pittsburgh, PA, to Naples in 2020, embarking on her role as the Community Resource Coordinator for the groundbreaking app, Collier CARES (Community Application for Resources and Emergency Services).

Over the past four years at NCF, Maddie’s role has continued to grow and evolve as she’s taken on increasingly impactful projects. From leading key elements of Meet the Kids Day to collaborating on fresh, engaging content across all Foundation media platforms, her work is focused on elevating NCF’s presence and deepen its connection with the community.

Sandra joined Naples Children Foundation in 2017 as an Accounting Assistant and was promoted to Accounting Manager in 2019.

She is a seasoned business professional with degrees in Business Administration from Universidad Pontificia Bolivariana in Colombia and Fachhochschule Münster in Germany. She brings practical expertise in business operations, having played a pivotal role in launching and managing a family business. This experience enabled her to gain extensive knowledge across various functions, including administration, human resources, and production. Her involvement in both the creative and operational dimensions of the business has endowed her with a profound understanding of business management, which she has effectively applied in her subsequent professional endeavors.

Upon relocating to the United States in 2005, she made significant contributions to the Greater Naples Chamber of Commerce, where she managed accounting responsibilities, oversaw the visitor center, and coordinated the volunteer workforce. Sandra is a dedicated and innovative professional recognized for her ethical approach, strong sense of responsibility, and commitment to lifelong learning. She adeptly balances professional excellence with her role as a devoted mother, thereby bringing a unique blend of discipline, empathy, and strategic insight to all her pursuits.

Aaron Chapman graduated Cum Laude from Northern Kentucky University in May 2022 with a bachelor’s degree in marketing. During his time in school, Aaron was a College of Business Ambassador and helped with events on campus as well as talked to incoming freshman about campus life. He also had an internship through his part-time job at a bank. During that internship, he helped plan and manage events. After graduating, he moved to Fort Myers, FL to start his next chapter, and he is excited to bring his skills to the position of Auction Relations Coordinator at NCF. He has always had a passion for helping his community and the people who live there. In his hometown in Kentucky, he was often involved with community outreaches. Now, he looks forward to being a part of this amazing organization to help the kids and families in Collier County.

In his free time, Aaron enjoys taking his dog to the dog park and spending his days at the beach. He also enjoys going to festivals and events happening within the community.

Caprice Del Vecchio joined NCF in October 2020 as the Events Coordinator.

Caprice brings a collective eight years of experience in the hospitality industry, including experience in hotels, restaurants, and lifestyle. In addition, she brings over 3 years of experience in the events industry through her time as the Senior Special Events Manager at the Hilton Naples in Naples, Florida and the Convention Services Manager at the Embassy Suites Denver Downtown in Denver, Colorado.

Born and raised in New Jersey, Caprice moved to Florida after graduating high school and attended Florida Gulf Coast University. She graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Resort and Hospitality Management with a concentration in Event Management. She is also a graduate of the Honors Program with Special Recognition. Throughout her life, she has dedicated time to various charitable organizations.

Caprice is excited to be a part of NCF and help further its mission.

Yudith Fernandez, originally from Cuba, joined the Naples Children Foundation in 2021 as an Accounting Clerk. She is a dedicated and accomplished professional recognized for her strong work ethic and unwavering commitment to excellence. After graduating from Golden Gate High School in Naples, she has cultivated a diverse career with experience in purchasing, human resources, and accounting. Her professional background reflects her adaptability, meticulous attention to detail, and effective leadership skills across various aspects of business operations.

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Yudith is a devoted mother of two daughters and a son, as well as the proud owner of two beloved puppies. Her determination, professionalism, and disciplined approach distinguish her as a motivated and inspiring individual who adeptly balances a successful career with a fulfilling family life.

Dani joins the Naples Children Foundation as Grants Manager with ten years of experience in community engagement, education and nonprofit work. In her role, she works directly with NCF beneficiaries and the Grants Committee to support the full grant cycle.

Dani earned her bachelor’s degree from Warren Wilson College in 2015, completing more than 800 hours of volunteer work in education, housing and family support programs. One of her most meaningful experiences during that time was with the Autism Society of North Carolina, where she supported adults with developmental disabilities and their families.

She began her career as a success coach with Communities In Schools of Greenville, South Carolina, where she worked with students and families before stepping into a leadership role as a program director and site facilitator for OnTrack Greenville. In this role, Dani led school-based teams focused on identifying students at risk of falling behind due to attendance, behavior or academics. She coordinated on-site interventions with community organizations, connecting students with services such as school-based health clinics, mental health counseling and academic support. Her work was instrumental in the success of the OnTrack pilot and the model’s expansion across Greenville County Schools.

After relocating to Naples, Dani joined Champions For Learning in 2022, where she managed volunteer programs and later became the director of educator programs, leading both the Classroom Grants and Golden Apple initiatives. A graduate of the Associate Leadership Collier Class of 2024, Dani is passionate about building relationships within mission driven organizations.

NCF, the founding organization of the Naples Winter Wine Festival, appointed Maria Jimenez-Lara as CEO in May of 2015. Ms. Jimenez-Lara previously served as Director of Foundation Services and Grants Director for NCF, responsible for overseeing the charitable grant process in conjunction with the trustee-driven Grant Committee.

Prior to joining NCF, Jimenez was Redlands Christian Migrant Association’s (RCMA) Director of Charter Schools. She brings with her over 20 years of experience in program development, designing effective educational programs for at-risk children and collaborating with various community-based organizations. Among her major contributions are the development of five charter schools for at-risk children, two housing developments for low-income families and a founding member of a domestic violence prevention organization.

Jimenez’s commitment to safeguarding the most vulnerable in our community is a natural fit with NCF’s mission to support charitable programs that improve the physical, emotional and educational lives of underprivileged and at-risk children in Collier County.

Jimenez holds two undergraduate degrees from Florida International University and Universidad de las Americas. Jimenez is a graduate of Hodges University with a master’s in public administration. Her civic involvement includes serving on District XI Juvenile Justice Board, Florida Council of 100, the Florida Pre-Paid College Foundation Board and SAMHSA Grant Advisory Committee member.

Lisa Juliano is the Senior Vice President, Naples Winter Wine Festival & Event Production. In that position, her responsibilities include the management and oversight of logistics, management and production for the Festival, the nation’s premiere charitable wine auction. Since its inception in 2001, the event has raised nearly $302 million to serve underprivileged and at-risk children in Collier County.

Lisa began her professional career working for the DiRona Award-winning Ram’s Head Inn restaurant in Abescon, New Jersey as the Private Dining Coordinator. In 1998, she relocated to Naples to start a family business – Sweet Caroline’s Sandwich Shop & Bakery, located on Immokalee Road. After selling the family business, she went back into event planning and management with Lexus and the Naples Botanical Garden. Lisa was recruited to join the NCF staff full-time to serve as Festival Coordinator in 2010. She was promoted to her current position in late 2023. Born and raised right outside of Atlantic City, New Jersey, Lisa earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Communications from Indiana University – Bloomington.

Joan Larson joined NCF in January 2017 as the newly appointed Chief Financial Officer. 

As a graduate of Hodges University with both a bachelor’s degree in Business (cum laude) and a bachelor’s degree in Accounting (magna cum laude); Ms. Larson went on to attain her CPA designation in 1999.  Ms. Larson is also a proud graduate of the Leadership Collier class of 2012.

Ms. Larson brings over a decade of experience working in public accounting as a Senior Auditor, specializing in not-for-profit auditing and then another decade working in the CFO/COO capacity in the not-for-profit industry.  Most recently, Ms. Larson served as the CFO and COO of the Greater Naples Chamber of Commerce where she received an outstanding service award from the Board recognizing the impactful contributions, she made to the organization in modernizing the accounting department; cost cutting initiatives and serving as a positive mentor and leader to the professional staff. 

Raised in family business in Nova Scotia, Canada; Ms. Larson possesses a work ethic second to none.  Born of an entrepreneurial father, and a fashion designer mother, Ms. Larson has a fully developed creative side.  She conducts herself with a very high level of integrity which was recognized throughout the organizations, boards and staff members with whom she has served over the years. 

Ms. Larson is thrilled to join this esteemed team of professionals supporting a mission which aligns so closely to Ms. Larson’s personal commitments and community involvement over the past couple decades.

Danielle Lomanno graduated summa cum laude from Metropolitan State University of Denver with a degree in English and Psychology. She spent 3 years working with girls ages 11-21 with mental and behavioral disorders. In 2015, she moved from Denver to Naples.

After moving to Naples, Danielle spent 6 years working for a flooring franchise company specializing in logistics, business development and relationship management.

She has a passion for helping those in need and has volunteered with multiple organizations over the years. Danielle is looking forward to continuing her career with NCF and making an impact in the lives of children in Collier County.

In her free time, she enjoys writing and spending time with her husband and two kids. When she needs to unwind, she heads to the beach.

Diane Piñeiro is an experienced Executive Assistant with a strong background in administrative support, executive calendar management, board coordination and cross-functional communication. Born in New York and raised in Puerto Rico, she relocated with her family to Naples in 2013. Diane joined NCF in 2018 as our Executive Assistant, supporting the CEO and Board of Trustees with high-level administrative, logistical and planning duties.

With over 25 years of experience across nonprofit, legal, pharmaceutical and medical device industries, including long-term roles at Boston Scientific and Ortho Pharmaceuticals, Diane brings exceptional organizational skills, attention to detail and bilingual communication (English/Spanish) to every role.

Before joining the organization, Diane was a temporary administrative assistant at Robert Half and held a part-time role at Roger B. Rice, P.A., providing legal support and translation services.

Diane is known for her professionalism, discretion, reliability and strong work ethic. She is passionate about contributing to mission-driven organizations where attention to detail, professionalism and integrity are essential – and her enthusiasm as our Executive Assistant is a bonus!

Working in various commercial and retail luxury industries has allowed Karla to develop a unique skillset that encompasses creativity, management and social engagement.

Karla entered the auction industry in 2019, working for a firm specializing in auctioning luxury real estate and yachts.

Her commitment to community stems from her time as a volunteer for Habitat for Humanity, logging 3,000+ hours of service in a four-year period.

Outside of work, Karla enjoys pursuing her goal of being fluent in French and Italian, as well as learning to play the piano. She delights in the local treasures of the town – enjoying the bounty of Naples restaurants, attending events at Artis and going for walks at Baker Park.

Lorena Vanoni is excited to join the NCF team as the Festival Support & Volunteer Coordinator. With a long history of supporting international organizations and helping others succeed, Lorena is looking forward to making a positive impact on underprivileged children’s lives. She recently moved from Ecuador, South America where she has always been supportive with those more in need. Known for being organized and resourceful, Lorena enjoys working behind the scenes with a team to keep everything running smoothly. Outside of work, Lorena loves hosting gatherings with family and friends, staying active, traveling to visit her children in the Netherlands, visiting vineyards while on holidays, hiking and working on her wellness entrepreneurship, a natural skincare brand with essential oils.

Jacqueline Wickert joined NCF in 2024 as the Senior Vice President, Branding & Marketing.

As a senior entertainment industry executive with over 25 years of experience in television production, content development, marketing and brand partnerships, Ms. Wickert previously served as Vice President, Current Programming at ViacomCBS where she oversaw popular daytime productions, as well as co-launched The Talk. Prior to that, she was recruited to build branded entertainment business models at NBCUniversal, CBS Network Sales and Warner Bros. Telepictures, serving as Vice President, Branded Entertainment; Director, Branded Entertainment and Media Innovation; and Supervising Producer, Branded Entertainment and Content Development, respectively, at those organizations.

In 2022, she was engaged by Hearst Media Production Group to connect nonprofit organizations and brands with mission driven programming across linear, streaming and digital channels to build a high-impact brand portfolio for multi-network educational and informational programming. It was this experience that ignited her passion to work in the nonprofit community and, more specifically, with NCF.

A recipient of three Daytime Emmy Awards, Ms. Wickert studied business administration and economics at Lakeland University in Wisconsin.

Originally from New Jersey, Sarah Zaiser-Kelly has lived in Fort Myers, Florida since 2009. Upon graduation from FGCU with a B.S in Marketing, she worked in Immokalee running afterschool school programs. In 2014 she was hired as the Associate Grants Director at the Naples Children Foundation (NCF). In 2016 she was promoted to Grants Director and has led the Grants Department ever since. Currently serving as Senior Vice President, Grants & Community Impact, she is responsible for overseeing the NCF grants process, setting the funding strategies and most importantly, working with all community partners to ensure NCF is helping to move the needle of child wellbeing in Collier County. She can attribute both her growth and success to being surrounded by caring, successful individuals, such as NCF Trustees, colleagues, and community partners. By nurturing these relationships, it has enabled her to not only learn and grow but to always have a strong support system to lean on.

Something she’s always lived by and has been reaffirmed in her career is to surround yourself with good people who will constantly push you beyond your comfort zone.

She currently lives in Fort Myers with her husband and two sons.