When Ruby Pezanetti reflects on her career, she does not describe it as a straight path, but rather as a winding road, one she traveled relying on principles of service, passion, taking risks, and being a lifelong learner.
“I often say I’m a jack of all trades, master of none,” Pezanetti laughed. “Moving from function to function gave me incredible learning opportunities.”
Her career trajectory took her across the country, 10 moves in 10 years, including her early years at Nationwide Insurance, headquartered in Wisconsin, where she cycled through roles in underwriting, claims, marketing, finance, and compliance.
She returned to Massachusetts to care for her mother. That transition eventually led her into health care and public service, including leadership roles at the Massachusetts Department of Public Health and the Pappas Rehabilitation Hospital for Children in Canton.
When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, she was just one month into her position as chief operating officer at Pappas.
“It was one of the most difficult times of my career,” Pezanetti said. “But despite the challenges, we ended up with the lowest infection rate of all state hospitals; only one patient tested positive for COVID. That was a testament to the team’s dedication.”
Today, Pezanetti serves as COO at the Edward M. Kennedy Community Health Center in Worcester, having joined the $62-million nonprofit in 2022. For her, it’s more than a job; it’s about making an impact for the community surrounding her.
“I immigrated from Haiti when I was seven and actually received care at a community health center as a child. Now, I get to give back,” she said.
In 2024, Kennedy Health Center served 34,813 patients, including 4,409 refugees arriving in Central Massachusetts.
Under her leadership over the past two years, the health center has opened two new facilities in Worcester and Milford, achieved a perfect score on its Health Resources and Services Administration accreditation, and developed clear career pathways for the 475 employees on staff.
“Many of our frontline workers are women,” she said. “I’m especially proud that we’ve built structures to help them move into higher-level roles. That’s about creating real opportunities for growth.”
Pezanetti’s professional success is partnered by her dedication to lifting others.
“As a woman of color, I’ve had to prove myself over and over again,” she said. “That’s why mentorship is so important to me. I didn’t have many role models who looked like me when I was coming up, and I want to be that person for others.”
Her leadership will leave a lasting legacy, said David Connell, president and CEO of YMCA of Central Massachusetts, where Pezanetti serves as a board member.
She makes contributions in four areas: partnerships, thought leadership, board governance, and leadership development, Connell said.
“When I think of Ruby’s contributions in the community, I think really of her ability to forge meaningful collaborations across nonprofit, corporate, and government sectors,” Connell said. “She’s someone you want at the table: someone who brings perspective, transparency, and accountability.”
At the YMCA, she’s more than a board member, she has an engaged role in the community, he said.
“Ruby shows up,” Connell said. “I remember one of the first events I saw her at, called Mission in Motion. It focused on cancer survivorship. Pezanetti wasn’t just there to fundraise; she was there encouraging people, interacting with survivors, rolling up her sleeves. That’s who she is.”
Pezanetti sees community service acting in solidarity with leadership.
“Careers are not about power,” she said. “They’re about listening, supporting, and creating an environment where people can thrive. That applies whether I’m at the office or volunteering.”
For young women starting out their careers, Pezanetti advises they focus on their self-confidence.
“Don’t be afraid to take risks. Your career path doesn’t have to be straight,” she said. “Build your network, seek mentors, and believe in yourself, even when others doubt you.”
This advice mirrors her own path: a career built on courage, adaptability, and a deep commitment to the community around her.
“Sometimes you won’t see the impact you’re making right away, but over time, it becomes clear,” Pezanetti said. “When it does, it’s worth every step.”
