BOSTON, MA – The Louis D. Brown Peace Institute (LDBPI) recently announced the appointment of its new co-directors, Alexandra Chéry Dorrelus and Rachel Rodrigues. The two transitioned into the role after dedicating years to the organization. 

“We are delighted to embrace Alexandra and Rachel into their new roles as Co-Directors. Alexandra and Rachel have shown great leadership in the organization while uplifting and supporting survivors of homicide victims experiencing the impacts of murder, trauma, grief and loss,” said LDBPI Founder, President & CEO Chaplain Clementina Chéry. “We invite our friends to join us in celebrating Alexandra and Rachel as they embark on a new journey to further serve communities and families impacted by homicide.

The Director of Reentry Services, Milton Jones highlights that “Alexandra and Rachel intentionally sought to learn. In fact, they embody the very mission of the Louis D. Brown Peace Institute which is to serve as a center of healing, teaching, and learning. They listened to learn, they learned to teach, and they taught to heal. They are poised and fit to lead this organization so that the work continues.”

Alexandra Chéry Dorrelus has been an active organizer since the age of 16 where she started her work as a youth organizer with the Breath of Life Dorchester (BOLD) Teens, advocating for social and environmental justice. Over the years, she has held many roles within LDBPI, including volunteer, consultant, advocate and Director of Programs and Training. As the sister of Louis D. Brown, Chéry Dorrelus is deeply connected to LDBPI’s mission and upholding the legacy of her brother.

“Families of homicide victims everywhere deserve to have their emotional, practical and emergency financial needs met so that they may be free to healthily grieve and transform their pain,” said Dorrelus. “Since 1994, LDBPI has developed best practices and I am proud to continue this legacy.” 

Rachel Rodrigues first joined LDBPI as an intern while attending college. After volunteering with LDBPI post-graduation, Rodrigues adopted the role of Program Coordinator. She then served as LDBPI’s Administrative Director. Rodrigues has provided valuable resources to survivors of homicide victims in various roles over the past fifteen years. Some of her focuses include fostering equity, inclusion, and strategic growth.

“The work we do at the LDBPI is critical to healing our communities,” said Rodrigues. “I’m honored to have been trusted all these years and am excited to build more infrastructure that supports our growth and keeps our staff in the work for decades to come.” 

###

About the Louis D. Brown Peace Institute 

The Louis D. Brown Peace Institute (LDBPI), founded in 1994, after the murder of 15 year old Louis D. Brown serves a Center of Healing, Teaching and Learning for families and communities impacted by murder, trauma, grief and loss. The vision of the LDBPI is to create and sustain an environment where all people are valued and all families can live in peace. Additional information is available at www.ldbpeaceinstitute.org.