Boston, MA — Today, the New Commonwealth Fund (NCF) announced the appointment of two prominent Massachusetts leaders to its Board of Directors: Hilina D. Ajakaiye, Executive Vice President of Meet Boston and a distinguished leader in strategic development and community engagement, and Allison Feaster, Vice President of Team Operations & Organizational Growth for the Boston Celtics.
Hilina D. Ajakaiye is an accomplished executive leader in hospitality, tourism, and economic development, recognized for her strategic innovation, financial acumen, and dedication to creating inclusive economies. With nearly two decades of experience, she has successfully led industry-transforming initiatives as Executive Vice President at Meet Boston, significantly enhancing Boston’s global visibility, spearheading post-pandemic recovery, and championing workforce programs grounded in equity, accessibility, and community engagement. Her deep commitment to philanthropy is evident in both her personal and professional life, where she consistently seeks to make a lasting, positive impact on underserved communities and empower the next generation of leaders.
A passionate advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion, Hilina founded the R.I.S.E. Women’s Leadership Conference to advance women in leadership and actively serves on multiple boards, including as an incoming member of the New Commonwealth Fund of Massachusetts. Her work consistently focuses on fostering economic opportunities for diverse communities, supporting diverse entrepreneurs, and driving systemic change. Hilina holds an MBA from Northeastern University, a BA from the University of Massachusetts, and is a Certified Destination Management Executive (CDME).
“I am deeply honored to join the New Commonwealth Fund in its mission to drive transformative change and amplify community-based solutions that create pathways for sustainable economic empowerment, said Ajakaiye. “The work of NCF is critical in ensuring that historically underfunded communities, entrepreneurs, and leaders have access to the resources and opportunities needed to thrive. I look forward to contributing my expertise and passion to furthering this vision and building a stronger, more just, and equitable future for all.”
Allison Feaster is VP of Team Operations & Organizational Growth for the 18-time World Champion Boston Celtics. She is a former professional basketball player, a global citizen, and a trailblazer in the sports industry who is highly regarded for her leadership and teambuilding skills.
During her decorated college basketball career, Feaster was the first player in any sport to be honored as Ivy League Player of the Year three times and was a 1st-round WNBA draft pick.
Beyond the court, Feaster serves on the NCAA’s Board of Governors, and she is co-lead for Boston Celtics United, the Celtics’ social justice initiative to impact social and racial inequities in Black and Brown communities in Greater Boston. She is a champion of the advancement of women and girls, and serves as a global advocate for sport.
“Respect-based philanthropy aligns closely with the values I’ve embraced throughout my career—teamwork, collaboration, and lifting others as we rise,” said Feaster. “At the New Commonwealth Fund, we deeply value the expertise and lived experience nonprofit leaders bring to the table. By listening and co-designing solutions alongside communities, we’re creating authentic partnerships that drive lasting change in Massachusetts. I’m honored to be a part of this organization.”
“These two dynamic leaders bring invaluable perspectives, expertise, and a deep commitment to NCF’s mission said Dr. Makeeba McCreary, President of The New Commonwealth Fund. “Together, we will build a Commonwealth where nonprofit leaders have the resources and respect they need to bring necessary solutions to scale.”
Since its founding, the New Commonwealth Fund has directed more than $16 million to nonprofits serving communities across Massachusetts, addressing disparities in our health, economic, and legal systems and making Massachusetts a place where everyone can thrive.
About The New Commonwealth Racial Equity and Social Justice Fund
The New Commonwealth Fund is reframing philanthropy through respect. By investing in communities and addressing disparities in health, economic opportunity, and legal systems, we empower Massachusetts to stand as an example for the nation.
