Announcing SCN’s Co-Executive Directors!

We are pleased to announce the promotion of Maya Atassi to the role of Co-Executive Director effective as of January 1, 2024. Suzanne Akhras will continue to serve SCN as Founder & Co-Executive Director.

Suzanne and Maya

Maya has been with SCN since 2015 when she first started as our Volunteer Coordinator. As a first generation Syrian American, she wanted a way to give back to her community after feeling helpless by the turmoil in her parents' home country. And get involved she did! For the past 9 years alongside Suzanne and other staff, Maya has been critical in growing SCN’s programs and service offerings. In her tenure as Deputy Director and then Director of Operations, Maya helped lead the establishment of our Case Management, Education, and Immigration programs. She has helped grow our operations and created systems so that we can better serve our community and showcase our exceptional work. Under her direct supervision, she has helped grow our government grant funding to over $1.1 million over the last six years. She still remains closely connected with our clients too, and they often ask to see Maya and say hello when they’re in our office.  

From Suzanne, “I have asked Maya to join me as Co-Executive Director at this crucial time. There is much work to be done as we are witnessing a refugee and migrant surge to our city. We must be prepared to meet the challenges ahead, leveraging our core strengths as directors as we welcome more people.”

From Maya, "It has been the honor of my life to be part of SCN and see the amazing growth the organization has undergone over the past 9 years. I look forward to this next chapter of supporting and sustaining the continued growth and success for the organization."

We hope you will join us in congratulating Maya and Suzanne on this new structure! Below you will find a letter from our Board of Directors about the transition.

Dear Supporter,

I am pleased to share with you an important update from the Board of Directors at Syrian Community Network. Effective January 1, 2024, we are pleased to announce the promotion of Maya Atassi to the role of Co-Executive Director. Alongside her, Suzanne Akhras will also serve as Co-Executive Director.

Maya and Suzanne will collaboratively lead SCN, focusing on enhancing our operations, advocacy, and fundraising initiatives. Their synergy aims to strengthen SCN's impact, utilizing their complementary networks and strengths. Both Co-Executive Directors will now report to SCN’s Board of Directors.

We extend our sincere appreciation to Suzanne for proposing this strategic shift, showcasing a rare commitment among nonprofit founders to the long-term health and sustainability of the organization. Her dedication to the professional and personal development of our staff is truly commendable.

Thank you for your steadfast commitment to supporting the refugee and immigrant community through our organization.

Sincerely,

Zaena Rihani Board President