(February 25, 2021) With bittersweet emotions, we share that La Casa de Don Pedro’s Chief Financial Officer Raquel D. Merlino has retired after 10 years with the organization. Known to friends, family, and colleagues as “RD”, she will be remembered for her passionate dedication to our mission, cheery disposition, work ethic, and positive outlook on work and life.
“She was an invaluable partner during her tenure with La Casa de Don Pedro”, Ray Ocasio recalls. “During our efforts to overcome the financial strains caused by the recession in the early 2010s, she helped us devise a financial restructuring plan and executed it to perfection. On a normal day, RD was a ray of sunshine with her distinguishable morning greetings and eccentric catch phrases.”
In honor of RD’s tenure, La Casa’s Board of Directors passed a Resolution in Appreciation of Outstanding Service during its February 24th Board Meeting. The resolution reflected the Board’s appreciation of RD’s essential role in strengthening La Casa’s fiscal capacity that allowed the agency to overcome a variety of adverse circumstances, now resulting in a current sound financial position. They thanked her for her commitment, leadership, and excellent service.
Julia Ochoa, our Director of Finance who worked closely with Raquel, remembers RD as someone who “lights up the room with her enthusiasm and positive attitude.” A determined boss who wouldn’t take no for an answer, her impact on La Casa goes far beyond what can be seen on paper.
RD’s expertise in treasury management, accounting, and technology along with her strong leadership and work ethic will be sorely missed. We wish RD the best of luck during this next chapter of her life.
RD (back left, wearing visor) always prioritized unity and team building through fun exercises, as shown here in this photo with her Fiscal and Business Office Team during their 2019 annual retreat.
