Board of Directors

Mahin Bina, Founder and Director

Ms. Bina was born in Iran and at the age of twenty committed herself to the service of others, particularly in the area of human awareness, relationship, and communication. She is the creative force behind the development of the Leadership Training and Transformational Thinking program. She has also developed and trained ex-offenders to lead Freedom by Design in Community Corrections Centers. This course prepares ex-offenders to live lives of freedom and contribution. Ms. Bina has received several local and national awards for her work with the inmates of Graterford Prison and the Residents of Community Correction Centers in Philadelphia.

Joe Rink, National Chairman

Mr. Rink has been a member of the End Violence Board since 2003. He is responsible for the overall delivery and expansion of the End Violence Project. A 31 year veteran educator, Rink teaches high school mathematics in a suburban Orlando, Florida school district. He has dedicated his life to making a difference in all people's lives. He has a BS from West Chester University of Pennsylvania and a Masters Degree from the University of Pennsylvania in Educational Leadership.

Stuart P. Papavassiliou, Director of Communications

Mr. Papavassiliou is the senior editor and director of editorial content for two leading financial publications, the Monitor and ABF Journal published in Wayne, PA. Mr. Papavassiliou also serves on the governing body of a leadership training program. He holds a Bachelor of Music degree from Indiana University. A native of Houston, he has lived in Philadelphia since 1983.

James Roberts, Treasurer

Mr. Roberts holds two degrees in International Finance: BBA, Florida Internationals University and MS Finance, Temple University. Married, with two stepchildren, James is committed to a world of inclusion and compassion.

Janet L. Novack, Attorney

Ms. Novack is an attorney and mediator, who has a passion for empowering people. Ms. Novack has extensive training in communication and leadership skills and is committed to transforming the criminal justice system.

Sandy Bechtold, Board Secretary

Ms. Bechtold is a psychiatric rehabilitation counselor in an apartment-based therapeutic community for mentally ill adults. Ms. Bechtold is committed to a world that works for everyone.

Mario Johnson, Fundraising Director

Mario Johnson is a 52 year old retired State Trooper. Mr. Johnson is committed to making a difference with leaders taking responsibility for their freedom. He has lead programs at Chester Prison and is training new program leaders at Chester Prison.