Our Team
Our board members bring diverse perspectives and experiences, but are united by a shared commitment to Tacoma.
Through Tacoma Neighborhoods Together, we support collaboration, responsible stewardship, and community-driven initiatives.
Deirdre Evans
Deirdre Evans is a Senior Regional Development Director at Catholic Relief Services (CRS), a leading international humanitarian organization serving communities in more than 120 countries. With over 30 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, she has a proven track record of securing six- and seven-figure gifts from individuals, families, and foundations.
She holds a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations from the University of Washington Tacoma and an MBA in Finance from the University of Redlands. Deirdre joined the Tacoma Neighborhoods Together Board to give back to the city where she grew up and to serve the community she deeply values.
President
Erling Kuester
Erling Kuester is a Tacoma-based real estate professional with more than 20 years of experience in both residential and commercial real estate. A graduate of Pacific Lutheran University, he has deep roots in the South Sound, having grown up in Lakewood and now residing in Tacoma.
Over the past two decades, Erling has been involved with both the Community Development Association (CDA) and Tacoma Neighborhoods Together (TNT), contributing his expertise and local knowledge to strengthen community development efforts.
Vice President
TreasurerRenzo Martorella
Renzo P. Martorella is a nonprofit executive and philanthropy leader with more than 25 years of experience advancing organizational growth, financial sustainability, and mission impact. He currently serves as Chief Director of Development for The Salvation Army in San Diego County.
Throughout his career, Renzo has remained committed to building high-performing teams, cultivating stakeholder trust, and creating meaningful opportunities for individuals and communities to thrive. He joined the Tacoma Neighborhoods Together Board in 2025.
SecretaryDr. Cherlyn Pijanowski
Dr. Cherlyn Pijanowski is a longtime Tacoma resident and dedicated educational leader. She currently serves as Principal of Meeker Middle School in Northeast Tacoma.
With decades of experience in public education, Cherlyn is committed to strengthening student learning and well-being while fostering inclusive and supportive communities. Deeply invested in the South Sound, she actively promotes engagement through local events and partnerships that connect families, schools, and the broader Tacoma region. She joined the Tacoma Neighborhoods Together Board in 2024.