Domus Vikings Staff Directory
Working for a brighter future in Stamford and beyond
Hover over each staff member’s photo to see contact options.
Chris Arenas
Director of Domus Vikings
Additional languages: Spanish
Chris is the director of the Domus Vikings school engagement program. He joined Domus in 2011 as an educational advocate at Domus’ Chester Addison Community Center, supporting neighborhood youth in their educational success, forging relationships with public school personnel, and supporting families in connecting with schools. In 2017, Chris played a significant role in launching the Domus Knights school engagement program as a program director. He served in this position until January 2024, when he was chosen to lead the Domus Vikings program. Chris is a Domus Sanctuary Committee member, focusing on trauma-responsive programming and environments. He earned his BS in Human Services and Psychology from the University of Bridgeport. “The joy of watching our youth reach new heights and accomplish goals they never thought possible is what continues to fuel my passion for this work.” When Chris isn’t busy removing obstacles for high school students, he enjoys spending quality time with his family and playing soccer.
Carmen Morales
Lead Family Advocate
Additional languages: Spanish, Intermediate Creole
Carmen joined Domus in 2021 as a family advocate. “What has kept me working at Domus are the relationships I’ve built with my students and their families. I get to watch my students grow from freshman to senior year and witness them recognize their own personal growth—there’s no better feeling. I strive to be the person I once needed in my own life and take pride in giving back in a meaningful way.” Carmen is originally from Stamford and is passionate about supporting youth through each stage of their journey. To unwind, she enjoys creating arts and crafts projects.
Charmaine Akins
Family Advocate
Charmaine first joined Domus in 2012 as a senior youth leader at Chester Addison Community Center before becoming a family advocate in 2022. Originally from Stamford, Charmaine is proud to give back to the community that shaped her. “I like working at Domus because it allows me to be part of a mission-driven organization that truly prioritizes the well-being and growth of youth and families. The work is challenging but incredibly rewarding, as I get to witness real change in the lives of those we serve.” In her free time, Charmaine enjoys expressing herself through drawing and painting, reading, going for peaceful walks, and spending quality time with her dog.
Davell Cotterell
Family Advocate
Davell joined Domus in 2024 as a family advocate and also works part-time with the street outreach team at Project New Hope. “What motivates me in this work is being able to relate to the kids and show them that where you come from doesn’t define who you are. It’s about helping them see their potential beyond their circumstances.” Davell is passionate about building trust and empowering youth through authentic relationships and lived experience. In his free time, he enjoys playing and watching football.
Shane Davis
Family Advocate
Shane joined Domus in 2024. Born and raised in Stamford, he is passionate about supporting the community he’s a part of. “What I love most about this work is being able to engage with kids, helping them grow and navigate life’s challenges.” Shane is dedicated to building strong, trusting relationships with the young people he serves. Outside of work, Shane enjoys coaching and is deeply passionate about health and fitness.
Tiffany Leiva
Family Advocate
Additional languages: Spanish
Tiffany joined Domus in 2023 as a family advocate. “What keeps me at Domus is my students and my team—they’re the heart of why I do this work.” Tiffany is passionate about creating safe, supportive spaces where young people feel seen, heard, and encouraged to grow. Her strong connection to Stamford helps her build meaningful relationships with the youth and families she serves. Outside of work, Tiffany enjoys journaling and taking long walks along the beach.
Nelorye (Nelly) Palacios
Family Advocate
Additional languages: Spanish
Nelorye joined Domus in 2023 as a family advocate. “What keeps me going is my love for others—it’s what fuels my passion for this work every day.” Nelly is dedicated to building meaningful relationships with students and families and creating a positive impact in their lives. Outside of Domus, she loves spending time at the gym, going on peaceful walks with her dogs, and deepening her spiritual connection with God.
Savannah Polica
Family Advocate
Additional languages: Haitian Creole
Savannah joined Domus in 2024. Born in Stamford, she moved away as a child but has lived in the area twice as an adult. Savannah is passionate about working with youth and helping them navigate challenges. “What I love most about this work is the opportunity to make a positive impact on young people’s lives.” In addition to her work, Savannah is passionately involved in activism and enjoys playing rugby. She loves to travel and is an avid reader, always seeking new perspectives and experiences.
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