Leadership Team
Gibbs J. Saunders, M.S., Executive Director
Gibbs Jennifer Saunders has been a leader in the fitness industry for over 20 years. Gibbs earned her master’s degree in Exercise Physiology from Columbia University. Most recently, she specialized in youth fitness strategies and was the sole consultant for the State of New Mexico Healthy Kids program, a state-wide physical activity initiative aimed at fighting childhood obesity. Gibbs also served as the Fitness & Wellness Department Chair at the Institute of American Indian Arts in Santa Fe, where she developed, taught and implemented academic fitness education strategies for the college.
As the Executive Director at Healthworks Community Fitness, Gibbs has launched aggressive programming with an evidence-based approach through Woman, Be Fit (a physical activity and nutrition intervention program for women), which has brought validity and acclaim to an organization that has been recognized by Boston’s mayor for innovation in health care and reached over 350 individuals in the last year. Additionally, her approach of teaching holistic fitness integrates the relationship between a fit body and self-sufficient empowered lifestyle. Finally, Gibbs’ ability to develop and cultivate partnerships has brought new funding and dynamic partners to HCF, including Reebok, The Bruins Foundation, The Daily Table, Blue Cross / Blue Shield of Massachusetts ,Boston Scientific and the Harvard JFK School of Government. Contact for donations, grants, staffing, and fitness programs: gsaunders@healthworkscommunityfitness.org
Tanisha Tate, Community Outreach Director
Tanisha Tate, CPT serves as the Director of Community Outreach & Engagement at Healthworks Community Fitness, where she is committed to expanding access to health and wellness for women across Greater Boston. A Certified Personal Trainer and Certified 261 Fearless Running Coach, Tanisha believes that everyone deserves the opportunity to live a healthier, stronger life—regardless of income or background.
In her role, Tanisha develops strategic partnerships, leads community engagement initiatives, and drives fundraising efforts that support Healthworks Community Fitness’ mission of providing affordable fitness, health education, and wellness programs to women in underserved communities. She is dedicated to building meaningful relationships that inspire healthier lifestyles and create lasting community impact.
As a Certified 261 Fearless Running Coach, Tanisha is passionate about using running as a tool to build confidence, resilience, and connection. She believes every woman deserves to feel empowered to take that first step—whether it’s walking around the block, training for a 5K, or crossing the finish line of a marathon.
In 2025, Tanisha proudly ran the Boston Marathon in support of Healthworks Community Fitness, raising funds to ensure more women have access to life-changing fitness opportunities. Her commitment to service extends beyond the finish line as she continues to advocate for health equity, empower women through movement, and foster a welcoming community where every woman can thrive.
“Fitness is more than building stronger bodies—it’s about building stronger confidence, healthier communities, and a legacy that inspires others to believe in what’s possible.”
— Tanisha Tate, CPT
Mia Phillips, B.S., Fitness Director, Certified Personal Trainer
Mia joined the HCF team in January of 2022 and became our Fitness Director in 2024. She holds a bachelors degree from Umass Boston in Exercise and Health Science and is a certified personal trainer through ACE. Her training style includes mobility and weight lifting. She strives to make her clients feel motivated and comfortable by creating a positive, welcoming environment. Mia is also a certified BODYPUMP™ by Les Mills instructor and 261 Fearless coach. In her free time Mia enjoys being outdoors, spending time with her loved ones, and travelling when possible. Contact Mia at mphillips@healthworkscommunityfitness.org
Healthworks Community Fitness Front Desk Staff
Lorene Thomas, Member Account Specialist
lthomas@healthworkscommunityfitness.org
Ivette Lozada, Member Service Specialist
membership@healthworkscommunityfitness.org
Christine Hatton, Member Service Specialist
TrishaKay Anglin, Member Service Specialist
Song Kulung, Member Service Specialist
Andreana Rivera-Thomas, Member Service Specialist
Board of Directors 2025
Sandra Cotterell, RN CEO, Codman Square Health Center, Dorchester, MA (retired)
Bill Walczak CEO, South Boston Community Health Center, Boston MA (retired)
Mark Harrington, Sr. CEO, Healthworks Group, Boston MA
Percess Williamson, CPT Director of Healthy Living, YMCA of Roxbury, Roxbury, MA
Ad Hoc
Beth Baker Deputy Associate Director, Boston Public Health Commission, Boston, MA
