GOSO’s Board of Directors has announced two new appointments: Centerbridge Partners’ John Smith-Ricco and Sam White, former Action Board Chair and longtime volunteer. These professionals will strengthen GOSO’s efforts in violence prevention, education, workforce development, and mental health services for at-risk and justice-involved young people, joining a dedicated our Board of Directors that has helped expanded GOSO’s services in recent years.
John Smith-Ricco
John C. Smith-Ricco is a Managing Director at Centerbridge Partners with 15 years of private equity and management consulting experience specializing in operational due diligence and portfolio company value creation. He has driven strong results across multiple investments, including Maclean Power Systems, Onbe and Dentaquest. Prior to Centerbridge, he was an Associate Partner at Bain & Company leading strategy and cost transformation initiatives for Fortune 500 and private equity clients. He currently serves on the board and compensation committee of Doma Technology and has previous board observer experience at multiple portfolio companies. With his Harvard MBA, proven track record of operational improvements, and governance experience, he brings relevant expertise in operations, talent development, and C-suite partnerships that would be valuable for board service.
“I’m beyond thrilled to join the board of GOSO, an organization that proves every day that a young person’s past does not define their future. GOSO’s integration of educational advancement, job training, and mental health services sets it apart from its peers. As someone who grew up in one of the communities GOSO serves, I am humbled to be part of advancing the organization’s mission.”
Sam White
Sam White is a Vice President and the Chief of Staff for Diverse Businesses at JPMorganChase with nearly a decade of dedicated service to GOSO, progressing from volunteer (2016) to Action Board member (2018) and later as Co-Chairperson. His deep understanding of GOSO’s mission and proven track record of bringing attention and funding to the organization demonstrate strong leadership capabilities. He previously held roles in Corporate Responsibility covering grantmaking and sponsorships and in Global Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion as Director of Operations and Deputy Chief of Staff. Before joining JPMC, Sam built a career as an entrepreneur partnering with brands and non-profits on digital campaigns and social impact initiatives, and he spoke with high school and college students across the country. He is also a founding Associate Board member for Kids Enjoy Exercise Now (KEEN), which provides free programs for children with disabilities in NYC. His progression through increasingly impactful roles reflects his ability to lead, fundraise, and advance transformative missions, making him well-suited for board service.
“Having been a part of the GOSO family for 10 years, joining the board is an honor, and it is a tremendous opportunity to further support GOSO’s mission and vision for justice. I’m as proud as ever to stand up for the GOSO participants and communities we serve.”
See our full Board of Directors roster here.