President | Community Outreach Coordinator

Denise Lauers, newly elected President of the Mystic Tenant Association, is a dedicated housing advocate and community leader. Originally from Brazil, she has lived in Somerville for over 18 years. Her passion for tenant rights and empowerment has led her to build strong relationships with elected officials, local organizations, and residents. She has been active in other communities around Somerville and believes tenant power drives meaningful change and is committed to strengthening connections within the Mystic community to create a more inclusive and supportive neighborhood.

Vice president | Communications & Social Media Coordinator

As a proud Puerto Rican and bilingual leader, Rey plays a vital role in bridging communication gaps and ensuring that all members feel heard and included. She is a passionate advocate for the community. With a background in design, she uses her creative skills to craft engaging visuals for the association, helping to amplify its mission and bring awareness to important initiatives. Rey is deeply committed to fostering a strong, connected community and works tirelessly to support tenants, organize events, and push for positive change within Mystic.

Treasurer | Fundraising Coordinator

Ana Da Cruz is a mother of three who has been living in the community for over 10 years. Originally from Cape Verde, she is fluent in English, Portuguese, and Cape Verdean Creole. With experience as an interpreter and translator for multiple agencies, she also worked as a daycare assistant teacher before the pandemic. She joined the Mystic Tenant Association to be a voice for the community, helping residents navigate challenges and find solutions to the issues they face.

Secretary | Event / Volunteer Coordinator

Marilza Benevides, originally from Brazil, has been a resident for a year and serves as the secretary of the Mystic Tenant Association. A mother of three and a dedicated kindergarten teacher, she is passionate about advocating for those who feel unheard and bringing light to those in darkness. She believes in the power of learning through both love and challenges, embracing the idea that everyone is both a student and a teacher to one another.

Secretary | Event / Volunteer Coordinator

Rosie De Assis, of Haitian descent, has been a resident for three years and serves as a board member of the Mystic Tenant Association. With a strong background in Business Operations, Project Management, and Administration, she brings valuable organizational and strategic skills to the team. Passionate about fighting against injustice, she is committed to fostering a vibrant and thriving community for current and future residents.

Secretary | Event / Volunteer Coordinator

Mirian Lopez is a longtime resident of Somerville, having lived in the Mystic community since 2009. Originally from El Salvador, she is fluent in Spanish and English and is currently learning Portuguese. With a background in administrative and healthcare support, Mirian has spent her career assisting and advocating for others. Her work has focused on helping immigrants navigate important processes and providing care to patients in a medical setting. She has always aspired to be part of an organization that makes a difference. Now, as a board member of the Mystic Tenant Association, she is proud to contribute to efforts that uplift and support fellow residents.

Member Chair

Marie Solon is a member of the Mystic Tenant Association and originally from Haiti. She has worked as a Secretary and Bookkeeper. Since moving to the United States, she has attended multiple colleges and has been living in the community for over twelve years. As a member of the group, she seeks to learn and contribute her ideas. While her health may limit her ability to assist extensively, she proudly represents the Haitian community.

Member Chair

Miriam De Oliveira is a member of the Mystic Tenant Association. She is also a mother of three and has been living in Somerville for over three years. She is honored to be a board member, as she feels it allows her to help improve the living situation for everyone. Originally from Brazil, she speaks Portuguese and, thanks to the friendships she has made living here, she can now speak Spanish as well. Miriam is always ready to help and welcomes anyone to reach out to her with any concerns.

MTA Volunteer

María Estela, originally from Mexico, has lived in the U.S. for 20 years. She is a valued volunteer of the Mystic Tenant Association. A cook specializing in Mexican cuisine, she is passionate about sharing her culture through food, Aztec dance, and folkloric traditions. She has taught workshops and collaborated with various organizations. As part of the Mystic Tenant Association (MTA), she aims to continue fostering community connections through culture and cuisine. At 62 and a mother of six, she remains dedicated to preserving her heritage and supporting local initiatives.