Zach Stanley, Executive Director

Zach is the Executive Director of Bioversity, a newly formed non-profit powered by MassBio that operates workforce training centers, runs training programming, and creates connections among employers, training entities, and students in order to reinvent career pathways for Massachusetts individuals traditionally left out of the life sciences.

Formerly, Zach was Chief Corporate Affairs Officer at MassBio where he oversaw the organization’s government affairs, communications, marketing, equity, diversity & inclusion, patient advocacy, and workforce development initiatives.

Prior to joining MassBio in 2017, Zach was the Vice President of Public Affairs at Rasky Partners where he specialized in message development, integrated digital advocacy campaigns, government affairs, and coalition building. Zach was formerly a field organizer for the Florida Democratic Party during the 2004 Kerry/Edwards Presidential Campaign and served as the assistant to the Deputy CEO for external affairs of the 2004 Democratic National Convention in Boston.

Recently, Zach has served on the American Cancer Society’s Cancer Action Networks’ Reigniting Research Council, as well as on Host Committee for The Children’s Trust’s Celebrating Fatherhood Brunch.

Zach earned a bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Boston College. He lives in Westwood with his wife Jessica, their son Reed, and daughter Eleanor.

Ross Marshall, Head of Community Engagement

As Head of Community Engagement at Bioversity, Ross Marshall serves as a strategic partner, forging connections between industry, academia, and community to propel workforce development initiatives and advance Bioversity’s mission. He leverages his extensive experience as a highly accomplished strategist, renowned for designing, building, and leading impactful equity-focused programs within complex organizations.

Prior to joining Bioversity, Ross held senior positions at MassBio, demonstrating his commitment to the biotech ecosystem. As Senior Director of DEI Advisory, he spearheaded diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, followed by his role as Senior Director of Community Engagement, where he fostered crucial partnerships and stakeholder engagement.

Beyond Bioversity, Ross actively contributes to the broader community. He serves on the board of YW Boston and participates in several local advisory roles, consistently seeking to build coalitions and drive positive change. A graduate of Bates College and Harvard Business School, Ross brings a wealth of knowledge and dedication to his endeavors. He currently resides in the Dorchester neighborhood with his wife Lisa.

Clarissa Ramirez, Senior Associate, Operations

As Senior Associate of Operations, Clarissa oversees classroom operations, provides comprehensive student support, and manages lab operation support. Clarissa’s unwavering dedication ensures that learning spaces are impeccably equipped and maintained to nurture an environment conducive to academic growth. She is equally devoted to guiding students along their educational journey, offering invaluable assistance, and fostering a nurturing atmosphere for success. Moreover, Clarissa orchestrates lab activities with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring seamless access to essential resources and the smooth functioning of equipment.

Prior to joining Bioversity, Clarissa was the Lead Dental Assistant Instructor at Lincoln Technical Institute. Her wealth of experience in educational leadership and operational management positions her as a valuable asset in furthering Bioversity mission and supporting the accomplishments of both students and faculty.

In addition, Clarissa is a proud graduate of Bioversity first cohort, having completed her studies in February 2024. This unique perspective allows her to understand the student experience firsthand while contributing to the operational excellence of the institution. This firsthand experience as a student endows her with a unique perspective, enabling her to empathize with student challenges and contribute to the ongoing enhancement of the institution’s operational excellence.

Clarissa resides in the South End with her son, Caiden, enriching her connection to both the community and her work at Bioversity.