Maria Strada
Executive Director
mstrada@middleearthnj.org
908-725-7223 ext 412

Maria Strada has been with Middle Earth since 1997, first as a Program Director and then becoming Executive Director in 2012. She has a B.A. from Rutgers University and a Master’s Degree from Montclair University. Prior to Middle Earth, Maria worked in the Somerset County Office of Youth Services, and she worked with adults experiencing mental health issues. She is passionate about our mission and loves working with a talented staff who make positive changes in the lives of youth.

Maggie Navatto
Associate Executive Director
mnavatto@middleearthnj.org
908-725-7223 ext 413

Maggie Navatto has been with Middle Earth since 2005. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Law & Justice from Rowan University and a Master’s of Business Administration in Nonprofit Management from Wilmington University. Maggie has experience with Middle Earth’s juvenile justice programs, mentoring services, and afterschool programs. She has been the Associate Executive Director since 2014. Maggie also has extensive volunteer experience through Somerset County 4-H.

Marilyn Alvarez
Mentoring
Phone Ext. 410
malvarez@middleearthnj.org

Marilyn is dedicated to helping others feel heard and accepted while inspiring them to see greater possibilities for themselves. She believes in the goodness and capability within every person and works to make that potential clear. By teaching critical thinking, problem-solving, and emotional intelligence, Marilyn encourages individuals to explore new perspectives and possibilities for growth. She credits all her efforts and successes to God.

Ryan Eppler
Connections
Phone Ext. 421
reppler@middleearthnj.org

Ryan Eppler is a graduate of Roger Williams University with a Bachelors in Criminal Justice. Before joining Middle Earth, he worked in residential juvenile facilities in both Rhode Island and New Jersey. Ryan has always been passionate about helping others and providing them with the chance to have a successful life. He uses his free time to go fishing, hiking, watching sports, spending time with his girlfriend, and hanging out with friends and family.

Liz Girvan
Visions and Outreach
lgirvan@middleearthnj.org

Liz Girvan graduated from Williams College with a B.A. in Sociology. Prior to working at Middle Earth, Liz taught English, History, and Geography at a bilingual school in Madrid, Spain, and led international backpacking trips for high schoolers. Liz has always enjoyed helping young people grow, gain confidence, and reach their goals. 

Becky Lyons
21st CCLC, Mentoring
Phone Ext. 405
908-212-7895 – Program Cell
blyons@middleearthnj.org

Becky Lyons is the Project Director for our 21st CCLC After School program as well as the Mentoring Program Director. Becky has worked with children and youth for over 15+ years and has always had a passion for it. She has a Bachelors in Educational Studies and a Masters in Instructional Design. Becky has been with Middle Earth since 2013.

Cory Matthew
Journeys, Station House Adjustment
Phone Ext. 407
cmatthew@middleearthnj.org

Cory Matthew is a Youth Program Director at Middle Earth with over 12 years of experience working with and educating diverse populations of adolescents. He oversees the Stationhouse Adjustments and Connections programs while co-directing the Journeys, Promise, and Youth College Readiness programs. After earning his degree in Psychology and Health from Kean University, he continues to expand his expertise in adolescent psychology and social work. Cory is passionate about teaching and training both youth and adults in topics such as trauma-informed care, positive youth engagement, and building meaningful relationships that empower individuals to thrive.

Khuti Moses
Visions / Outreach
Phone Ext. 422
kmoses@middleearthnj.org

Khuti [kuh-HOO-tee] graduated from Rutgers University-New Brunswick with a double major in Political Science and Philosophy. Prior to Middle Earth, Khuti has experience working to uplift underprivileged youth in Essex County, contributing to academic research, and guiding others as a writing tutor. In his free time, Khuti enjoys spending time with family and friends, reading, poetry, exploring music, and learning about different cultures.

Ike Onyejiaka
Journeys and Promise
Phone Ext. 406
908-963-9519 – Program Cell
ikeo@middleearthnj.org

Ike Onyejiaka is a Somerset, NJ native. He graduated from Rowan University with a degree in Law & Justice. Ike has enjoyed working at Middle Earth since 2013. He currently serves as the Program Coordinator for the Promise and Journeys programs. In his free time, he is passionate about mentoring youth from his community.

Ricky Pinto
21st CCLC
Phone Ext. 408
rpinto@middleearthnj.org

Ricky Pinto graduated from Kean University with a Bachelors in Recreation Administration. He is a native to New Jersey and has over 10 years experience in early childhood education, from paraprofessional positions to coaching sports. In his spare time, he enjoys visiting friends and family and rooting for his favorite sport teams.

Jessica Ramirez
Journeys and YCCRP

Jessica Ramirez graduated from the University of Wyoming with a degree in Secondary Education and an emphasis in Spanish. She was a STEM teacher for over six years and loved helping students discover new things through hands-on learning. She is new to New Jersey and enjoys traveling, exploring new places, and spending time with her loved ones.

John Williams
21st CCLC
Phone Ext. 420
johnwilliams@middleearthnj.org

John Williams is the Site-Coordinator in Manville, NJ and has been working for Middle Earth since 2018. Before his employment with 21st CCLC, John attended Brooklyn College where he received his Bachelor’s degree in Psychology. He has hands-on experience in a large classroom setting working with children ranging from grades 2nd to 6th as well as experience with one-on-one mentoring.