Meet The Staff
Julio Zayas - CEO of Veterans Support Services
Julio Zayas is a proud U.S. Air Force Veteran who served as an Enlisted Security Forces (Military Police) Airman from 2009 to 2013. After completing his military service, Julio committed himself to community improvement through human services, educational outreach, project management, and veteran support initiatives.
In 2025, Julio became a licensed real estate agent to educate first-time homebuyers—an effort inspired by his own experience of not knowing the process, which delayed his path to homeownership. His mission is to ensure others are better informed and empowered in their journey to owning a home.
That same year, he founded Veterans Support Services (VSS), a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping veterans access education, navigate state and federal benefits, and receive critical support in areas such as mental health, housing, medical care, and community reintegration.
Julio also mentors incarcerated veterans at the Veterans Essex Courthouse in Lawrence, MA, providing guidance to those preparing to reenter civilian life. His mentorship helps ensure these individuals have access to the tools and support necessary for a successful transition.
He holds a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Project Management and a Master’s degree in Management from Colorado Technical University. He is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Educational Leadership.
Susan Dunshee - President, Board of Directors
Susan Dunshee is the President of the Board of Directors at Veterans Support Services and a proud Worcester-based business owner for over 10 years. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Worcester State University.
A devoted mother of two teenagers, Susan is also an educator, volleyball coach, and volunteer marketer for a hospice organization in Central Massachusetts. She is a strong advocate for women’s empowerment and brings that same passion for service into every area of her work.
With several years of experience in Human Services and Education, Susan’s dedication to veterans began when she assisted homeless veterans in accessing life-changing support services. That moment ignited a lifelong mission to make serving the veteran community a priority.
Her leadership, compassion, and drive continue to guide the vision and impact of Veterans Support Services.
Andres Benitez- Treasurer
Andres Benitez is a seasoned Senior Loan Officer with over 25 years of experience in the mortgage industry. Throughout his career at Rate, Andres has worked closely with numerous veterans, providing expert guidance and successfully processing VA loans to support their homeownership goals. His commitment to serving the veteran community is deeply personal—many of his close friends are veterans, and he holds the utmost respect for those who have served. Andres takes great pride in ensuring veterans receive the financial support and loan options they deserve.
Cornel Boothe - Clerk, Board of Directors
Cornel Boothe proudly serves on the Board of Directors at Veterans Support Services, where he also fulfills the role of Clerk. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Management from Worcester State College.
With over 13 years of experience in transportation and supply chain management, Cornel has held key leadership positions at industry-leading companies such as FedEx, Fresh Express, and Walgreens. His career has been defined by a focus on strategic planning, process optimization, and building efficient, results-driven delivery systems.
Deeply committed to service and community, Cornel now dedicates his expertise to supporting veterans. Through logistics coordination, outreach programs, and operational support, he plays a vital role in helping the organization deliver impactful, streamlined services to those who served our nation.