Who We Are

Meet the dedicated team working to empower survivors and create lasting change

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Our Mission

To combat human trafficking and break cycles of exploitation by building a trauma-informed community and creating opportunities for economic stability—providing a permanent path out of sex trafficking by equipping survivors and those at risk with the tools, training, and support to reclaim their autonomy, power, and future.

Our Vision

A world where safety is non-negotiable and every survivor has access to opportunity—where the past doesn't keep you from a beautiful future.

Our Core Values

Trauma Informed by Design

Everything we do—with survivors, in the community, and as an organization—built for emotional safety—for every body.

Survivor Centered

Survivors shape programs intended to support their healing.

Intentional Choices

Honoring each person's right to make decisions about their future.

Mutual Accountability

True accountability grows from understanding and learning, not judgement.

Unconditional Love

Every person is worthy of love and belonging—without exception.

Consistency

Showing up consistently with compassion and trust.

Fairness and Equality

Support to overcome invisible barriers and move forward.

Beauty is Essential

Beauty as a tool for restoration, confidence, and healing.

Our Leadership Team

Julie Chapus, LMSW

Executive Director

Julie brings over 15 years of experience in social work and anti-trafficking advocacy. She holds a Master's in Social Work and is passionate about creating therapeutic environments where survivors can heal and thrive. Her vision for Miss Julie's School combines her expertise in trauma- informed care with her belief in the transformative power of beauty education.

Credentials & Expertise:

Licensed Master Social Worker

Anti-Trafficking Specialist

Trauma-Informed Care Certified

Licensed cosmetology director, Instructor and agent

Caren Barth

Deputy Director

Caren uses her skills as a writer, educator, and grant professional to ensure that programs stay mission-focused and sustainable. She is driven by the belief that love and hope are powerful strategies for breaking down barriers, supporting survivors, and building a safer, stronger Rochester community.

Credentials & Expertise:

Skilled professional

Values-driven approach

Community impact

Jordan Betts

Program Director

Jordan oversees all educational programs and curriculum development at Miss Julie's School. With a background in both education and program management, she ensures that our cosmetology training meets industry standards while maintaining our therapeutic approach. Jordan works closely with students to develop individualized learning plans that support their unique healing journeys.

Credentials & Expertise:

Program Management Certification

Educational Leadership

Cosmetology Industry Expert

Ralph Bocchino

Board Chair & Field Liaison

Ralph serves as the vital connection between our school operations and our board of directors. With extensive experience in organizational management and community partnerships, he ensures effective communication between all stakeholders. Ralph also manages our field placement programs and industry partnerships that provide real-world experience for students.

Credentials & Expertise:

Organizational Management

Community Partnership Development

Board Relations Specialist

Chantal Reese

Survivor Leader

Chantal is a powerful voice for survivors and a living testament to the transformative power of our program. As a graduate of therapeutic education programs herself, she provides peer support and mentorship to current students. Her leadership and advocacy work extends beyond our school to the broader community, where she speaks about survivor experiences and empowerment.

Credentials & Expertise:

Peer Support Specialist

Community Advocate

Public Speaker

Mandy Winseman, LCSW

School Social Worker

Mandy provides crucial therapeutic support to students throughout their educational journey. She specializes in trauma recovery and has extensive experience working with survivors of trafficking. Mandy conducts individual and group therapy sessions, develops treatment plans, and works with students to address barriers to their success.

Credentials & Expertise:

Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Trauma Specialist

Group Therapy Certified

Our Support Team

David Chapus, LMSW

Legal Counsel

David has drafted hundreds of decisions and orders in both civil and criminal cases. Career Law Clerk 1994 - 2025 Hon. David G. Larimer, USDJ Western District of New York Juris Doctorate State University of New York at Buffalo 1986, Editor, Buffalo Law Review 1984-1986 BAR ADMISSIONS New York 1986, United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit (2008)

Credentials & Expertise:

Career Law Clerk – U.S. District Court (1994–2025)

Juris Doctor – SUNY Buffalo Law School (1986)

Admitted to the New York Bar & Second Circuit Court of Appeals

Mandy Winseman

ICSW & School Social Worker

Mandy's expertise in social work and psychotherapy allows her to provide essential mental health support to our students. Her use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Integrative/Holistic Psychotherapy ensures that our students receive the most effective treatment.

Credentials & Expertise:

Mandy is skilled in social work and psychotherapy.

She provides mental health support to students.

Admitted to the New York Bar & Second Circuit Court of Appeals

Gerianne Puskas

Board Vice Chair

With over twenty years in leadership roles, I have transformed development and communication strategies, leading to substantial organizational support and award-winning campaigns that resonate with our community's ethos. My final full-time position in a local non-profit included co-launching a $20M capital campaign and fostering a government relations initiative that secured $8M in support in 18 months. We achieved these through building relationships and an acute awareness of community concerns, ensuring inclusivity and alignment in every initiative. I bring this experience and passion to every organization I work with. This commitment to ethical leadership and strategic innovation continues to guide our mission to build a stronger future together.

Credentials & Expertise:

Over 20 years of leadership in development and communication.

Co-launched $20M campaign and secured $8M government support.

Committed to ethical leadership and strategic innovation.

Mandy Winseman, LCSW

School Social Worker

Mandy provides crucial therapeutic support to students throughout their educational journey. She specializes in trauma recovery and has extensive experience working with survivors of trafficking. Mandy conducts individual and group therapy sessions, develops treatment plans, and works with students to address barriers to their success.

Credentials & Expertise:

Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Trauma Specialist

Group Therapy Certified

Board of Directors

Our diverse board brings together expertise from law enforcement, healthcare, business, and survivor advocacy to guide our mission.

Andrea Anderson

Buffalo Police Officer & Veteran

Andrea brings law enforcement expertise and military discipline to our board. Her experience in identifying and supporting trafficking victims provides crucial insight into our safety protocols and community outreach efforts.

David Mammano

Speaker, Host & Entrepreneur

David leverages his media and business expertise to raise awareness about human trafficking. His entrepreneurial background helps guide our sustainability and growth strategies.

Steven Neumaier

President, Goldwell NY

Steven provides invaluable industry connections and ensures our curriculum meets professional beauty standards. His leadership in the beauty industry opens doors for graduate employment and continuing education.

Alexandra Herrmann

Survivor Leader

Alexandra represents the survivor voice on our board, ensuring our programs remain centered on survivor needs and experiences. Her advocacy work informs our policy decisions and program development.

Lisa Ireland

Development Chair

Lisa leads our fundraising efforts and grant writing initiatives. Her background in development ensures sustainable funding for our programs and facility improvements.

Robyn Miller

Traveling Nurse

Robyn brings healthcare expertise to our board, particularly in areas of trauma-informed medical care and mental health support. Her medical background informs our student health and wellness protocols.

Ralph Bocchino

Board Chair & Field Liaison

Ralph serves as the vital connection between our school operations and our board of directors. With extensive experience in organizational management and community partnerships, he ensures effective communication between all stakeholders. Ralph also manages our field placement programs and industry partnerships that provide real-world experience for students.

Melissa Hartwig

Administration & Accreditation

Melissa ensures our school maintains all necessary accreditations and regulatory compliance. Her administrative expertise keeps our operations running smoothly and professionally.

Lisa Barbosa

Finance Chair

Lisa oversees our financial management and budgeting processes. Her financial expertise ensures responsible stewardship of donor funds and sustainable business practices.

Join Our Mission

Be part of our community of supporters working to empower survivors and create lasting change.