OUR BOARD
OF DIRECTORS
They bring a diverse range of experience, perspectives, and leadership. United by a shared commitment to BASA’s mission, they help guide the organization’s growth, strengthen its impact, and expand meaningful opportunities for young athletes through sport and community.
Robert Peras
Founder & President, FEAT Solutions
Robert “Bobby” Peras is the founder and president of FEAT Solutions, a Long Island City-based energy consulting firm specializing in facilities optimization, energy efficiency, building automation, and technology integration, with a focus on NYC Local Law compliance. He brings over 20 years of experience in energy efficiency consulting, operations management, utility engineering, and incentive program development.
Before founding FEAT Solutions in 2024, he served as Energy Performance Manager at The Durst Organization, managing energy performance across a portfolio of prestigious NYC commercial properties. His leadership is grounded in values instilled during his U.S. Air Force service: excellence in all he does, service before self, and integrity.
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"Do something today your future self will thank you for.”
--Sean Patrick Flanery
Dr.Cristina Meléndez
CEO of Responsible Technology in Education
Dr. Cristina Melendez is the former Deputy Chancellor of Family, Community, and Student Empowerment for the New York City Department of Education. An experienced education leader and advocate for students and families, Dr. Melendez has dedicated her career to strengthening partnerships among schools, families, and communities to support student success.
Throughout her leadership, Dr. Melendez has championed meaningful family engagement and worked to ensure that parents and caregivers have a strong voice in their children’s education. Her work has focused on building inclusive school communities, expanding opportunities for collaboration, and empowering families as essential partners in creating positive educational experiences and outcomes for all students.
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"When we invest in sports, we are not simply building better athletes. We are building stronger young people, stronger communities, and more pathways to possibility.”
--Dr. Cristina Meléndez
LEADERSHIP
THAT OPENS DOORS.
Strong leadership creates the conditions for lasting opportunity. BASA’s board helps shape the organization’s vision, deepen strategic partnerships, and ensure that young athletes and the organizations they support have access to the resources, relationships, and pathways they need to move forward.
