Meet the Board
Amanda Arroyo
Title: Consultant, CIE Concepts
My favorite Philly neighborhood is: Society Hill. I like the historic vibe of the cobblestone streets and 18th/19th century architecture. The homes are charming, and you can walk down a small street and feel part of a cinematic scene. Society Hill residents were pivotal in initiating some of the earliest residential historic preservation efforts in the United States. I value the unity among residents and developers, ultimately contributing to the neighborhood's distinctive character.
Melanie Hidalgo-Britt
Melanie Hidalgo-Britt is a dynamic nonprofit leader with over 15 years of cross-sector experience in development, marketing, and strategic partnerships. As the Vice President of Development at Building 21, she is responsible for driving fundraising efforts, building partnerships, and managing marketing and PR initiatives for Building 21 and Launchpad. In addition, Melanie is deeply committed to advancing STEM education and supporting underrepresented communities. She currently serves on the Steering Committee for the Philadelphia STEM Equity Collective and the board for iPraxis.
Kristen Fitch
Title: Senior Director of Marketing, University City Science Center
My favorite Philadelphia neighborhood is: It’s difficult for me to pinpoint just one neighborhood in Philadelphia that’s my favorite because it’s the juxtaposition of environments that appeals to me so much. I love that I can wander through the woods in the Wissahickon by day and enjoy any number of world class cultural events and cuisine across multiple neighborhoods by night. It’s everything I want and need from the place I call home.
Heidi Franklin
Title: Director of Programs and Partnerships, PACT
My favorite neighborhood is: Center City- I love the accessibility by car or public transportation, the variety of food, architecture, and the walkability. Though cliche to say, it does have a little bit of everything for everyone!
Michelle Freeman
Title: CEO, Witty Gritty
My favorite Philadelphia place is: I love West Philly and Baltimore Ave, in particular. I went to Drexel and lived in the area for about 6 years. I have a lot of nostalgia for the area and also love Clark Park, the coffee shops, and Ethiopian restaurants.
Nicole Pumphrey
Title: Vice President of Talent and Workforce at The Chamber of Commerce
My favorite Philadelphia place is: Nothing compares to the Reading Terminal Market. From supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs to long-time Philly staples, this institution represents all that’s great about our city. History meets ham hocks. It’s our Singapore hawker center, our indoor Parisian market – inspiring connection, hope, and appetites. Let’s have lunch, sometime.