Meet the Discover Central MA Team
Monique Messier, President
As a core member of the DCM team, Monique boasts a firm local foundation—beginning with her longtime Massachusetts residency and spanning her education at spots like Becker College in Leicester and the University of Massachusetts in Amherst. With prior experience as a general manager of the MassMutual Center, on the opening team at MGM Springfield and in various hospitality sales management roles, she has traveled extensively while always finding her way back to the neighborhood.
"I'm thrilled to call this region home."
Charisse Martinez, Director of Sales
Charisse holds extensive knowledge of the region as a Worcester native and Charlton resident, a true expert on what to do and see in the area. A Becker College graduate, she is also a Certified Meeting Professional and MA Licensed Real Estate Salesperson. Formerly, Charisse held roles like director of sales with Worcester SER Exposition Services, director of sales with Cyprian Keyes Country Club and director of catering with Crowne Plaza Hotels Worcester.
"I am Worcester’s biggest cheerleader and am so proud to see the growth and transformation of our great city."
Sam Ashraf, Marketing Specialist
A Westborough resident at present, Sam has previously worked with the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and as a marketing exec for a PR agency in Los Angeles. She holds a bachelor's degree from Heriot Watt University UK and a master's from Worcester State University, both in management and marketing concentrations. Sam married her childhood best friend, which ultimately landed her in the Central Massachusetts region—now with an active toddler by their side.
"Working with Central MA has been such a pleasure."
Tim Power, Membership Success Coordinator
A Southbridge native, Tim is a tried and true Central Massachusetts local, with education from regional spots like Trinity Catholic Academy in Southbridge and Holy Name in Worcester. He also holds an MBA with a certificate in data analytics from Nichols College and a bachelor's in marketing from Assumption College (now Assumption University). His former roles include campus recreation graduate assistant at Nichols, waterfront director at YMCA's Camp Foskett in Charlton and internships with Detect Together and the Houston SaberCats.
"I've known this area my whole life... A wonderful place to not only live, but to visit."
Victoria Kontoulis, Operations Coordinator
A teammate of many talents, Victoria's expertise ranges from home baker to HR professional. With a Bachelor of Arts in dance performance and former experience at UMass Memorial Medical Center, she's a Western Massachusetts native who now resides in Worcester with her husband and Yorkshire terrier, Teddy.
"I fell in love with the city and community."
