The Heights Foundation/The Heights Center announced its 2026 Board of Directors officers and welcomed two new members during its annual year-end board meeting, marking a year of leadership transition and continued commitment to building strong, self-sufficient families in the Harlem Heights community.
Outgoing Board Chair Armando Llechu opened the meeting by reflecting on the organization’s progress and the Board’s role in guiding strategic growth, program expansion, and long-term community impact.
“This transition represents both stability and forward momentum,” said Llechu. “The dedication and leadership of this Board are essential as The Heights Foundation continues to expand opportunities for the families we serve.”
2026 Board Officers
Outgoing Board Chair Armando Llechu and incoming Board Chair Jim Dwyer
Chair: Jim Dwyer
Dwyer serves as Senior Vice President of Corporate Development at Interop Technologies, a wireless industry managed services provider. With more than 30 years of experience across mobile network operators and service providers, he leads key partnership development and strategic growth initiatives.
A longtime supporter of The Heights Foundation, Dwyer has served on the Board of Directors for eight years and has played an active role in the organization’s growth, helping expand programs, strengthen governance, and ensure alignment with its mission.
As Board Chair, Dwyer will work closely with fellow directors and executive leadership to advance strategic priorities and support the Foundation’s long-term impact in Harlem Heights. He holds an MBA from Nova Southeastern University and has served on the boards of several nonprofit and professional organizations.
Vice Chair: Jan-Erik Hustrulid
Hustrulid holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Florida Gulf Coast University. He began his career in real estate as a co-founder of Twin Realty, Inc. in Bonita Springs before transitioning into commercial construction and business development. His career includes leadership roles with Owen-Ames-Kimball, and he currently serves as Operations Personnel Director with Skanska USA.
Hustrulid also serves on the boards of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Lee County, the Bonita Springs–Estero Economic Development Council, and the Charlotte County Cultural Center.
Secretary/Treasurer: Bryan Filson
Filson is a Financial Planner with nearly 20 years of experience in the financial services industry. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Finance from Bentley University and holds multiple professional licenses and certifications, including Series 7 and 66, CRPS®, and CEPA.
He has previously served on the Economic Development Council for the Bonita Springs Chamber of Commerce and as a Trustee for the Bonita Springs Fire Control and Rescue District Pension Fund. He currently serves on the boards of The Heights Foundation and Epilepsy Florida, Inc.
New Board Members
The Board welcomed Dede D’Arcy and Kathy Stefanski, both of Fort Myers, as new Directors.
Dede D’Arcy
D’Arcy was born in Kansas City, raised in the Chicago suburbs, and graduated from the University of Denver. Her professional background includes work in climatology, retail, and investments, including time at Merrill Lynch.
After starting her family, D’Arcy became deeply involved in nonprofit and community causes, with a focus on arts, education, and underserved populations. She has been a longtime volunteer with Habitat for Humanity in Fort Myers, serving on construction crews and fundraising efforts. Through this work, she became familiar with Harlem Heights and the needs of the surrounding community. Having lived in Fort Myers since 1991, she looks forward to continuing her service through The Heights Foundation.
Kathy Stefanski
Stefanski is a Michigan native who relocated to Florida five years ago. She brings more than a decade of experience in the banking industry and is actively involved in the local community through board service and volunteer work. She enjoys boating, hiking, and spending time outdoors.
Board Recognition
Continuing Board members include Tracie Bagans, Paul Benvie, Jim Dwyer, Jamie Fautz, Bryan Filson, Jan-Erik Hustrulid, Kathryn Kelly, Teri Palmer, Carson Pearlman, Javier Salazar, Susan Scott, David Vazquez, Terri Wade, and Alesha Watchowski. Dr. Deb Mathinos continues her service as Director Ex-Officio, and Victor Mayeron was recognized as Director Emeritus.
The organization also recognized Chris Lopez, Beth Prather, and Tom Lytton for six years of dedicated Board service. Armando Llechu was honored for seven years of leadership, including his tenure as Board Chair.
“Our Board members are stewards of this mission and champions for the families of Harlem Heights,” said Kathryn Kelly, Founder/President/CEO of The Heights Foundation. “Their leadership ensures our programs remain strong, responsive, and focused on lasting impact.”
For more information about The Heights Foundation/The Heights Center, visit www.heightsfoundation.org or call (239) 482-7706.
