About the EOVS Engagement Office

Get to know the Executive Office of Veterans Services Engagement Team.

What We Do

The EOVS Engagement Office supports veterans and their families by providing assistance to veterans accessing benefits, services, and available resources, including:

1. Providing responsive and empathetic constituent services to veterans and their families.
2. Helping veterans navigate the complexities of the various benefits and programs they may be eligible for, including veteran financial benefits, burial options, education, employment, housing, and other veteran services.
3. Conducting outreach activities to educate veterans and their families about available services and benefits for veterans.
4. Collaborating with community groups and stakeholders to enhance support systems for veterans by cultivating a network of resources.

Engagement Team Leadership

Cory R. Ahonen

Assistant Secretary for Engagement and Outreach
[e-mail], [phone]  

Cory Ahonen, Assistant Secretary for Engagement and Outreach at the Executive Office of Veterans Services (EOVS), is a highly skilled professional with extensive experience in veterans services, benefits, and resources. A US Air Force Security Forces veteran, Cory previously served as a municipal Veterans Services Officer, where he refined his expertise in benefits administration and earned national accreditation as a VA Claims Agent. Since joining EOVS in 2023, he has led impactful outreach and engagement initiatives while pioneering innovative approaches to case management, tracking, and reporting. Cory holds a Master of Public Administration and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology."

Nicholas Charrette

Deputy Chief Engagement Officer
[e-mail]

Nicholas Charrette serves as the Deputy Chief Engagement Officer at the Executive Office of Veterans Services (EOVS), bringing a strong background in veterans advocacy, education, and constituent services. A proud U.S. Army Military Police veteran, Nicholas has dedicated his career to ensuring military veterans have the resources and support they need to thrive.

Before joining EOVS, Nicholas was the Program Director of Veterans Upward Bound, where he helped veterans prepare for and succeed in higher education and trade schools. His commitment to empowering veterans through education laid the foundation for his role at EOVS,  ensuring veterans and their families receive the guidance and assistance they deserve.

Nicholas holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and a Master of Science in Accounting, combining analytical expertise with a passion for service to drive impactful engagement and outreach initiatives.

Lynette Gabrila

Deputy Chief Engagement Officer for Peer Support and Outreach
[e-mail], [phone]

Lynette Gabrila serves as the Deputy Chief Engagement Officer for Peer Support and Outreach, joining EOVS in 2024. Lynette is a proud Army veteran. Lynette served as the Wachusett District Director of Veteran Services, the Director of Veteran Services for the Town of Dracut, and for the City of Worcester. Her commitment to enhancing the lives of veterans is underscored by a comprehensive understanding of federal and state compliance, coupled with a strategic approach to organizational growth and community engagement.

Lynette earned her master’s degree in Social Work from Boston College. In addition to her professional role, Lynette is an active member of the state’s Veterans Equality Review Board and Women Veterans Advisory Council.