PCCHF BOARD
Dr. William Chester - Co-Founder
Bill is an Anesthesiologist with over thirty years of service providing humanitarian medical aid. For him, medical missions have been a passion and an opportunity to experience the world in a meaningful way. During his first year at the National Naval Medical Center, he was invited to participate in an Operation Smile program in Kenya. He remembers, "That first mission was like an awakening. It touched on all the things I was interested in - travel, seeing new cultures, giving people a real chance for a better life." Dr. Chester has worked with several non-profit organizations such as Operation Smile, Children of the Andes and Pan American Medical Society (PAMS).
In 2003, Bill lost his son Paul in a tragic car accident. One year later, he co-founded the Paul Chester Children's Hope Foundation (PCCHF) in memory of his son, an extraordinarily bright and compassionate young man who showed a deep commitment to humanitarian work.
Roxolana Kuzmak Zajac - Co-Founder
Roxy is a dynamic and accomplished professional with a proven track record across a wide range of industries, from International Development at the World Bank to Emerging Market investing at Deutsche Bank, and entrepreneurship. She has founded and led successful companies, including a well-known luxury pet accessory brand. Roxy’s diverse experience spans from managing projects, such as enhancing All Souls School's online presence, to spearheading multimillion-dollar infrastructure initiatives and global efforts to improve investment environments. With expertise in strategy, project management, and relationship building, Roxy is committed to driving positive change and creating lasting impact.
Oksana Pidhoreckyj - Executive Director
Oksana has built a dynamic career in NYC’s media and fashion industries as a costume designer and celebrity stylist, with appearances in several commercials. Her journey with the Paul Chester Children’s Hope Foundation (PCCHF) began in 2005 when she joined a medical mission to Quito, Ecuador. Fueled by a passion for storytelling and raising awareness, she traveled to Kenya in 2007 to document the lives of the indigenous Laikipia community. Oksana’s versatility and ability to navigate new terrain make her an invaluable member of the PCCHF team. Her warm, hospitable nature fosters a sense of family among volunteers and medical teams alike.
As Executive Director of PCCHF, Oksana plays a vital role in connecting medical professionals with underserved communities, ensuring life-changing care reaches those in need. In addition to her philanthropic work, she is the co-founder of Roman Empire Farms, an organic hemp farm in upstate New York. There, she merges her commitment to sustainability with her mission to promote healthier living through ethical entrepreneurship.
A founding member and pillar of PCCHF, Oksana continues to dedicate her life to making a meaningful impact—whether in media, philanthropy, or sustainable business.
Michael Youngblut - President
Michael arrived in Washington, DC in 1981 to work for NGO start-up to coordinate best practices among the many NGOs providing healthcare and public health services around the World. The National Council for International Health (NCIH)served as a clearinghouse of information collected from its members and an international forum where practitioners, policy makers, local stakeholders and other would come together to share lessons learned. NCIH (now known as the Global Health Council) got its start through the urging and support from The Pan American Health Organization and the World Health Organization. A graduate from the University of Illinois, Mr. Youngblut focused on health policy and health planning & economics and was one of the collaborators of the first and second health plans for the State of Illinois.
Dr. Alireza “Ali” Tehrani - Former President: 2016-2021
Dr. Alireza Tehrani, a Board-Certified surgeon by the American Osteopathic Board of Surgery (AOBS), is a distinguished figure in plastic and reconstructive surgery. He embodies a rare fusion of expertise, compassion, and dedication. His academic journey, from the Kansas City School of Medicine to a plastic surgery fellowship, was marked by recognition as a standout talent. Dr. Tehrani’s practice in California demonstrates a commitment that extends beyond borders through his work with the Paul Chester Children's Hope Foundation.
As a board member and former PCCHF President, Dr. Tehrani spearheads missions to developing countries, bridging gaps in surgical care and providing restorative care to children in dire need. In his hands, patients discover not just a surgeon but a trusted partner on their journey to self-enhancement and transformation.
Patrick Heaphy - Former President: 2012-2016
An entrepreneur in the marketing & advertising industry owner of LCM247 Digital Marketing and co-founder of WhoDIK.com, Patrick brings that expertise to further the awareness of PCCHF’s humanitarian efforts. His involvement with PCCHF began while filming the foundation’s first mission to Quito, Ecuador in 2005. Witnessing the incredible impact that the work of the volunteer nurses and doctors had on the lives of children and their families, he felt a shared responsibility to see their work continue. Today, he is active in the day-to-day operations of PCCHF and continues to be vital part of sharing the experiences and accomplishments of the foundation with supporters around the globe through multimedia.
A life-long New Yorker, Patrick now resides in West Nyack with his wife and two daughters.
Nastassja Many - Former President: 2009 - 2012
Nastassja has been an active PCCHF board member since 2007 and served as President of PCCHF from 2009 to 2012, guiding the organization through a period of significant growth. Previously, she worked for the European Parliament, the European Commission, and UNICEF. Her career gave her insights into global development issues and strengthened her resolve to advocate for those in need. Nastassja hopes to continue contributing to PCCHF with the aim of making a positive impact in the world and improving the lives of the less fortunate.
Nastassja earned a Master's degree in Political Science, a diploma from the Conservatory of Dramatic Arts, and a degree in gemology from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). Nastassja is also an accomplished actress, dancer, and polyglot. She is currently learning Arabic, her sixth language. Nastassja is the mother of twin adult sons, Oscar and Sean.
Gregg Navins - Board Member
Gregg is President of The OMARA Organization, Inc., a Manhattan-based construction management firm. He has worked as a project engineer and manager in the construction industry for over 30 years and has a mechanical and civil engineering background. Having joined the PCCHF Board in 2010, Gregg shares the commitment to expanding PCCHF's reach to children and their families in developing areas of the world.
Gregg lives in Westchester, NY, and enjoys his time on PCCHF missions, bonding with the doctors, nurses, volunteers, board members, and the local communities.
Captain David A. Bianchi, MC, USN - Board Member
In his private surgical practice in suburban Maryland, Captain Bianchi serves as Medical Director and CEO at the Surgery Center of Silver Spring and Chief of Otolaryngology at Holy Cross Hospital. He is a Fellow of the American Academy of Otolaryngology and the American College of Surgeons, and his expertise is highly sought after in the DC area. He holds several academic positions, including being an Assistant Professor of Surgery at Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences and George Washington University’s School of Medicine. He also holds medical staff appointments at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Holy Cross Hospital Silver Spring, Suburban Hospital, and the National Institutes of Health. His awards include the National Defense Service Medal, Navy-Marine Corps Commendation Medal, Navy Achievement Medal, Kuwait Liberation Medal, Southwest Asia Service Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, Meritorious Unit Commendation, Navy Unit Commendation, and Global War on Terrorism Service Medal.
Captain Bianchi lives in Wheaton, Maryland with his wife, Glenette Dale Bianchi.
Dr. Consuela J. Cruden-Parham - Board Member
Consuela J. Cruden-Parham, MD, MPH, FACOG is a practicing Obstetrician/Gynecologist OBGYN in West Virginia. She is also an assistant professor at the West Virginia University School of Medicine where she balances clinical, academic and administrative roles daily. Consuela was born and raised in Suriname and has retained strong connections with the social and medical communities of her former home. Her strong desire to return to provide humanitarian medical expertise and aid to the women and children who need it most, led her to create her Surinamese foundation CRUCON.
Consuela’s mission toward helping women take care of themselves, their children and their families through health and education was achieved while connecting with PCCHF in November 2017. In January 2019, Consuela led the first PCCHF ENT mission for orphaned children in Paramibo, Suriname.
Dr. Kamran Shayesteh, DO, FACOS - Board Member
Dr. Shayesteh has been a member of PCCHF since 2007, and he is currently a Board Member.
Dr. Shayesteh grew up in Bethesda, MD, attending Walter Johnson High School. He graduated from the University of Maryland at College Park in 1995 and the Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine in 1999. He then moved to Philadelphia, completing a 5-year residency in General Surgery and a 2-year fellowship in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM). He served as Chief Resident in both the Departments of General Surgery and Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery. Dr. Shayesteh is Board-Certified in General Surgery as well as Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery by the American Osteopathic Board of Surgery. He is a former Oral Board Examiner for the AOBS in Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery.
He is currently employed at the Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center in Johnstown, PA, a Level 1 Trauma Center where his practice focuses on hand and facial reconstruction after trauma. He is on the teaching faculty of the General Surgery Residency program there, and takes a general surgery resident from the program with him on the mission trips.
He is married to Ellen; they met as Interns at PCOM in 1999. They are proud parents of twins; Georgia (University of Miami; Biology) and Reza (Columbia University; Foreign Service). "One of the greatest joys in my life is going on mission trips with my daughter, Georgia". Kamran is an avid bikepacker and skier; he was the former president of the Conemaugh Ski Club.
Brigitte Smith - Board Member
Brigitte Smith has been an integral part of the Paul Chester Children’s Hope Foundation (PCCHF) for the past 20 years, serving as an original member and offering her medical expertise to support the foundation’s mission of providing healthcare to underserved communities worldwide.
With 30 years of experience as a Certified Nurse in the Operating Room, Brigitte has contributed to AORN-accredited publications in neurosurgery and served as a Past Chapter President of AORN, demonstrating her leadership in advancing surgical nursing practices.
In addition to her work with PCCHF, Brigitte served as a 1st Lieutenant in the United States Army Reserve and is currently an Associate Board Member of the Water & Soil District Board, focusing on environmental sustainability. She also serves as Chair of the Marion County Florida Republican Executive Committee.
Soon Kwon - Board Member
Soon is a New Jersey native and Penn State graduate. She started her professional career at Showtime Networks and is currently the Director of Design Operations at Paramount+. Soon proudly serves as a PCCHF board member and focuses her energy on PCCHF’s fundraising efforts in New York City.
Motivated by the desire to utilize her talents and help make a difference, Soon began her volunteer work with PCCHF in January 2008. She was deeply moved by the story of Bill Chester and the team’s passion to create something positive out of a tragic situation. Over the last two decades, the small, grass-roots group has not only changed the lives of hundreds of children and families worldwide but has also transformed Soon’s life for the better.
Mihir Goswami - Board Member
Founder and President of Sun Asset Management, a New York based commodities trading firm started in 2005. Having graduated from Lehigh University in 1991 with a B.S. Degree in Finance, he began his career in the financial industry in 1991 at J.P. Morgan as a junior trader in the global securities lending department. In 1993 Mr. Goswami left J.P. Morgan to join Refco Institutional Management, at the time one of the largest institutional futures and commodities desks in the world, as an execution trader/research analyst. In 1998 Mr. Goswami joined Connecticut based commodities fund Graham Capital Management, initially as a U.S. futures markets trader and eventually running Graham’s Asian futures trading desk. In 2003, Mr. Goswami left Graham to join Unifund, a $2 billion private investment firm based in Geneva as a senior portfolio manager. At Unifund, Mr. Goswami was co-manager of an internal $20 million global macro fund and developed the quantitative strategies and risk management models used by the fund. Mr. Goswami left Unifund in 2005 to work full time on the development and refinement of the trading strategies which are currently in use by Sun Asset Management.
Alina Chester - Board Member
Alina Chester is Academica's Chief Budget Officer. She manages funds for 180 non-profit charter schools and works closely with more than 100 K-12 principals across the United States. She holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Florida and a Master of Business Administration from Florida International University.
Alina is Paul’s sister. Paul died when Alina was 13 years old, and working with PCCHF throughout her young adult years helped her to grieve and honor her brother’s life by serving others. She lives in Maryland with her husband and three children.
