School on Wheels of Massachusetts is pleased to announce the appointment of Athena Giannaros as its new Executive Director.
Giannaros, a passionate advocate for educational equity, brings extensive leadership experience to SOWMA. Having served on the organization’s board for more than a decade —most recently as Board Chair—she has played a pivotal role in guiding SOWMA’s growth and success.
With her deep commitment to SOWMA’s mission and a strong background in nonprofit governance, strategic planning, and partnership development, Giannaros is uniquely positioned to lead the organization into its next phase of growth.
As Executive Director, Giannaros will oversee day-to-day operations, ensuring the continued delivery of high-quality educational support to homeless children and youth across Massachusetts. She will spearhead efforts to scale programs, build community partnerships, and advocate to ensure that every child has access to the education and opportunities they deserve.
“I am deeply honored to take on the role of Executive Director at SOWMA, an organization that has had a transformative impact on so many children and families, beginning in my hometown of Brockton – and now throughout the Commonwealth,” said Giannaros. “Education is the key to breaking the cycle of poverty, and I look forward to collaborating with our dedicated team, partners, and supporters to provide every child with the opportunity to succeed, regardless of their circumstances.”
In her previous role as Board Chair, Giannaros worked closely with executive leadership to build successful partnerships, fundraisers, and programs that advanced the organization’s mission.
Prior to her work with SOWMA, Giannaros had a distinguished career in international business operations, holding senior positions with the Kokkalis Program at the John F. Kennedy School of Government and managing international operations for Extraprise Group, Inc.
Outside of her professional career, Giannaros is a mother of three teenage children, an avid writer, and a dedicated volunteer and community leader. She and her family have volunteered extensively, including tutoring at family shelters, customizing and distributing backpacks, and mentoring at-risk youth.
Giannaros holds a Bachelor’s degree in International Relations from Boston College and studied abroad at Al Akhawayn University in Morocco. She is fluent in Greek and resides in Hingham with her husband and children.
“We are thrilled to have Athena lead SOWMA as Executive Director,” said Board Chair Spencer Collier. “Her leadership and experience will be invaluable as we continue to expand our services and work toward a future where every student in Massachusetts has the tools and support they need to succeed academically and in life.”About School on Wheels of Massachusetts (SOWMA)
School on Wheels of Massachusetts (SOWMA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping homeless children in Massachusetts achieve their full potential by providing educational support and resources. Through its dedicated team of volunteers, staff, and community partners, SOWMA serves students in need, advocating for their success both in the classroom and beyond.
