Our Executive Team

Merilla Scott headshot

Merilla McCurry Scott, PhD Executive Director

Dr. Merilla McCurry Scott is a licensed clinical psychologist with over 30 years of leadership experience building community-based behavioral health programs across Los Angeles.

As a visionary leader, she has shaped transformative programs at prestigious institutions including Didi Hirsch Community Mental Health Center, The HELP Group, Prototypes, and the Child and Family Guidance Center. Her expertise extends to Human Resources, where she excels in creating diverse, inclusive workplace cultures and developing emotionally intelligent leadership teams.

Appointed by Supervisor Sheila Kuehl, Dr. Scott served five years on the Los Angeles County Mental Health Commission—including one year as Chair—where she championed equitable access to quality care for underrepresented communities.

With a PhD in clinical psychology from UCLA, Dr. Scott remains devoted to addressing violence through prevention, intervention, education, and policy. Her mission is to increase service capacity, tackle the root causes of violence, ensure equitable access to care, and empower the next generation of professionals to become effective agents of change.

Her career embodies a singular focus: building client-centered programs delivered by a trauma-informed, culturally responsive workforce dedicated to supporting individuals throughout their healing journey.

man in dark suit standing in front of dark background

Yama Yaqubi, Finance Manager

Yama Yaqubi serves as Finance Manager, bringing 19 years of professional experience to StrengthUnited, including three years in the nonprofit sector with two of those years spent at UCLA. With an MBA in Finance, Yama oversees the organization's fiscal operations, applying a strong analytical foundation to budgeting, financial reporting, and day-to-day financial management. His background spans both the private and nonprofit sectors, giving him a well-rounded perspective on sound financial stewardship. His expertise supports the accuracy, transparency, and stability of StrengthUnited's finances, ensuring resources are managed responsibly in service of the organization's mission. Yama's disciplined, detail-oriented approach reinforces the financial infrastructure that allows programs to operate effectively and grow sustainably.

Jessica Romo headshot

Jessica Romo, Director of Programs

Jessica Romo serves as Director of Programs, bringing more than 15 years of dedicated experience in the non-profit sector to StrengthUnited.

With a Master's in Public Health (MPH) and credentials as a Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES), Jessica seamlessly merges academic expertise with practical implementation of impactful public health initiatives.

She has developed particular expertise in prevention programming, health education, community outreach, and direct care services. Her comprehensive approach consistently strengthens community engagement and elevates program outcomes.

Through her leadership in prevention and outreach efforts, Jessica continues to champion evidence-based practices that promote community wellness and create sustainable impact across the communities served.

Headshot of Andrew Pacheco wearing a light brown, yellow, and blue gingham patterned suit with a similarly patterned tie, with a strengthunited lanyard around their neck. Against a beige colored background wall

Andrew Pacheco, Director of Sustainability and Growth

Andrew Pacheco serves as Director of Sustainability and Growth, bringing over six years of comprehensive experience in non-profit operations and development to StrengthUnited.

With a Master's in Public Administration (MPA), Andrew expertly manages grants and contracts while overseeing critical organizational functions including operations, quality assurance, and human resources.

His expertise spans the full spectrum of non-profit management—from securing and administering funding to implementing robust operational frameworks. Andrew's integrated approach combines strategic funding initiatives with strong operational oversight, ensuring sustainable growth and programmatic excellence.