Big Brothers Big Sisters Elects New Members to National Board for Youth Mentoring Initiative

BBBSA Welcomes New Board Members

On February 11, 2026, Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA), the leading youth mentoring organization, announced the election of three new influential members to its Board of Directors. The newly appointed leaders are Erik Lopez, Chief Supply Chain Officer at Ulta Beauty, Andrew Ross, who is the Founder and Managing Member of Confluence Global Capital, and Douglas M. Worman, Chairman and CEO of CNA Financial Corporation. This addition is expected to significantly propel BBBSA's commitment to expanding mentoring opportunities and fostering impactful relationships among young individuals both nationwide and locally.

The Board's Chair, Mike Carrel, expressed confidence in the new members, stating, "These leaders come equipped with diverse expertise and a shared passion for mentorship, which is essential to our mission. Their involvement is especially timely as we address the pressing needs of youth and communities across the country."

Profiles of the New Leaders

1. Erik Lopez
Erik Lopez brings extensive experience from the retail and supply chain sectors, having served as the Chief Supply Chain Officer for Ulta Beauty. He oversees their supply chain strategy, which includes aspects such as distribution, e-commerce fulfilment, and logistics. Lopez has previously worked with Target, where he gained varied operational insights. He strongly believes in the power of mentorship, integrating community engagement into his leadership philosophy. In the past few years, Ulta Beauty, under his guidance, has raised nearly $5 million in support of BBBSA’s mission.

2. Andrew Ross
Andrew Ross has a deeply personal connection to BBBSA, influenced by his grandfather, who was a founding member of the Pittsburgh branch. As the Founder and Managing Member of Confluence Global Capital, Ross has professional expertise in finance, which he plans to leverage in his new role. Andrew's experience serving on the board of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Pittsburgh affirms his dedication and connection to the organization’s purpose, emphasizing the impact that mentorship can have on individual lives.

3. Douglas M. Worman
As the Chairman and CEO of CNA Financial Corporation, Douglas Worman brings significant acumen in providing commercial insurance solutions. His leadership at CNA aligns closely with BBBSA's mission, focusing on community resilience and preparing young individuals for success. Worman embodies a strong belief in mentorship and its potential to forge meaningful career paths for youth. He also holds pivotal roles in various educational and risk management advisory boards.

The Importance of Mentorship

Artis Stevens, President and CEO of BBBSA, highlighted the critical nature of mentorship in shaping futures: "By investing in young people, we strengthen our communities and work towards a more equitable future. Erik, Andrew, and Douglas represent the pinnacle of mentorship’s potential. Their skills and commitment will be vital as we strive to amplify our influence and broaden our reach during a time when our youth need steadfast champions."

About Big Brothers Big Sisters of America

Founded in 1904, BBBSA stands as the largest and most experienced youth mentoring organization in the U.S. It focuses on fostering one-to-one mentoring relationships that inspire and empower young people. BBBSA's evidence-based approach leads to improved educational outcomes, better self-esteem, and healthier life choices among its youth clientele. Operating across more than 5,000 communities in all 50 states, BBBSA remains dedicated to making a profound difference in the lives of young individuals nationwide. For additional insights into their impactful work, visit www.bbbs.org.