Roman was born in Lowell, Massachusetts, and spent part of his childhood in Puerto Rico with family members. The son of addicted and imprisoned parents, he became involved with the juvenile justice and foster care systems at a young age. Despite an unstable and often violent upbringing, he used these experiences as motivation and went on to become a Marine.
After becoming a father at 15, Roman earned his GED and is now in his junior year at Merrimack College, studying business and leadership. His curiosity and determination also led him to learn the construction trades and establish Brethren Builders Limited. He lives in the Berkshires, where he works full-time as a carpenter and custom home builder. He has also written a memoir about his life.
Roman previously worked as an assistant general manager at Soldier On, a nonprofit supporting homeless veterans experiencing substance use and mental health challenges. Earlier, he returned to the Department of Youth Services, where he had spent much of his youth in detention, as a staff member supporting system-involved youth. Following further personal challenges and more than a decade of involvement with the court system, Roman dedicated himself to helping others overcome similar barriers.
Through his lived experience, professional background, and commitment to community, Roman brings valuable perspective to The Pathfinder Network’s Board of Directors.
“Ultimately, I hope to leave an impact on our youth which convinces them that they are not alone, that they are worthy, and that they are truly capable of doing and being not only self-sufficient in life, but whoever and whatever they choose to become, regardless of what stigmas society places on them. […] I dedicate my life to the intentional effort of giving back all of which has been given me, in the hopes that it will contribute to the uplifting and empowerment of our marginalized communities.” — Xion Roman