
Our Board of Directors
The SUNY Orange Foundation Board is comprised of successful business and community leaders who passionately believe in the wonderful educational opportunities that SUNY Orange provides, many of whom are SUNY Orange graduates.
Adam McCarey '96
“I am honored to be a part of such an amazing organization that supports higher education. SUNY Orange has given me the foundation to succeed and I hope that through our collective efforts, we as a Foundation, can offer the same to others.”
Adam McCarey, a 1996 graduate of SUNY Orange and a 1998 graduate of SUNY Albany, has been a steadfast member of the SUNY Orange Foundation Board since 2017, currently serving as Board Chair. With a career rooted in public safety and government relations, Adam brings a wealth of experience to his leadership role. As a retired firefighter and fire inspector for the City of Middletown, he has a deep understanding of crisis management, emergency response, and municipal operations, which he applies in his efforts to advance the Foundation’s mission.
In addition to his professional achievements, Adam is actively involved in the community. He has served on numerous committees, including the Otisville/Mount Hope Presbyterian Church Safety Committee and is a past chair of the SUNY Orange Foundation Alumni Committee. His dedication to service is also evident in his role as a NYS Uniformed Building and Fire Code instructor and as a compliance and land use consultant and integrity monitor for both municipal and private entities.
In his personal life, Adam is driven by the relationship he has with his family. He and his wife Ashley, have 3 children, Addison, Amelia, and Austin. It is their support that Adam credits with propelling him forward in his community work.
As Chair of the SUNY Orange Foundation, Adam ensures that the Foundation’s resources are used to enhance learning opportunities for students and strengthen the College’s ties to the community. His leadership and vision are instrumental in expanding educational opportunities and supporting the success of SUNY Orange students, a commitment that reflects his own appreciation for the education he received at the College. Adam’s belief in accessible educational opportunities extends to the scholarship he started with the Foundation in honor of his mother, Barbara Gobeo.
“I am honored to be a part of such an amazing organization that supports higher education. SUNY Orange has given me the foundation to succeed and I hope that through our collective efforts, we as a Foundation, can offer the same to others.” Says Adam reflecting on his commitment to the mission of SUNY Orange and the impact of the Foundation’s work.
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Rebecca Reynolds
​Rebecca Reynolds is a distinguished leader in both the accounting field and the community. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and an MBA from Mount Saint Mary College's School of Business, exemplifying a commitment to education and professional excellence.
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Rebecca has been a part of the RBT Certified Public Accountants team since 2014, where she quickly rose to become a partner in the audit department. As a Certified Public Accountant licensed in New York State, Rebecca has demonstrated expertise in serving a diverse clientele across various industries, including commercial entities and not-for-profit organizations.
Rebecca was born and raised in Highland, NY, where she continues to reside with her husband Chris and their dog Winnie. In her free time, Rebecca enjoys volunteering, reading, traveling, hiking, playing board games, and taking walks.
Rebecca is an active member of the New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants (NYSSCPA), contributing to both the Healthcare and Non-Profit Committees. She also maintains membership with the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). Rebecca is deeply committed to her community, as evidenced by her nine years of volunteering with the United Way of Dutchess-Orange. She also plays significant roles with the Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley as the First Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees and the Chair of the Audit & Finance Committee.
For the SUNY Orange Foundation, Rebecca is committed to her role as Chair Elect of the board of directors, as well as the chair of the finance committee. Rebecca’s insights have been invaluable. Her dedication to service was recently recognized with the prestigious 2023 Hudson Valley 40 Under 40 award, highlighting her impact and influence in the region.
Kathy Frommer
“We are so fortunate to have SUNY Orange in our community. It provides our economy with a strong workforce for both growth and stability, and it provides everyone with the opportunity to start, enhance or hep direct their future career goals. Our community colleges are both an example and strong part of the American spirit of opportunity for everyone.”
Kathy Frommer is a technology entrepreneur and philanthropist who has made impactful contributions to both the business and nonprofit sectors. With ten of service on the SUNY Orange Foundation Board of Directors, Kathy has become a cornerstone of the SUNY Orange Foundation embodying leadership and dedication through her various roles. She currently serves as the Vice Chair of the Board of Directors as well as the Chair of the Development Committee and is an active member of the Investment Committee.
As the former CEO and co-founder of CRS Retail Systems in Newburgh, New York, Kathy Frommer played a transformative role in the retail technology landscape. Under her leadership she successfully guided through rapid growth, two acquisitions, and major technology changes and initiatives.
Beyond her professional achievements, Kathy is deeply committed to philanthropy and community service. Kathy was honored during the SUNY Orange Foundation 2012 Leadership awards. Kathy’s dedication to community service is evident in her extensive involvement with numerous boards and organizations. She has served o the Board of Directors for the Orange County Partnership, Orange Regional Medical Center, McQuade Children’s Services, and Bethel Woods Center for the Arts.
Kathy, a lifelong resident of Orange County, has been a passionate supporter of initiatives that enhance the well-being of our community. She is married to Don Frommer, and together they have raised two children. Kathy enjoys spending her free time with her family, exploring the scenic beauty of the Hudson Valley, and engaging in civic endeavors that align with her passion for community service.
Margaret Deyo Allers
“My involvement on the SUNY Orange Foundation Board of Directors is important to me both on a personal and professional level. Personally, SUNY Orange, more than 40 years ago helped pave my way into the health care arena by guiding me towards a very rewarding career. I am forever grateful to this incredible organization of higher learning. On a professional level, the mission of the SUNY Orange Foundation is in complete alignment with my mission, which is to mentor, grow, and develop the next generation of professionals.”
Margaret Deyo Allers is a highly accomplished nurse executive with over 30 years of experience in healthcare leadership. She currently serves as the Senior Vice President of Patient Care, Chief Operating Officer, and Chief Nursing Officer at Montefiore St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital, where she oversees patient care services, strategic planning, and a $200 million budget. Her leadership has driven the hospital to achieve top rankings, including #1 in the state for Critical Care, Magnet Designation, and national recognition among the top 2% of hospitals.
Margaret received her Associates in Nursing from SUNY Orange. She then went on to get her BSN and her MS in nursing with a minor in Health Administration management from Mount Saint Mary College. Throughout her career, Margaret has been a strong advocate for nursing professionals, leading initiatives to improve patient care and advance healthcare delivery.
Margaret’s extensive experience includes successful union contract negotiations, development of critical care programs, and active participation in several key hospital committees. Her work has been recognized with awards such as the NYS Hudson Valley Nurse of the Year, and she has co-authored publications on healthcare transition models.
Margaret joined the SUNY Orange Foundation board of directors in 2024, and we know that her deep expertise and commitment to excellence will be invaluable as we work to enhance the impact that we have on SUNY Orange and the community.
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In describing her feelings about the Board, Margaret says, “My involvement on the SUNY Orange Foundation Board of Directors is important to me both on a personal and professional level. Personally, SUNY Orange, more than 40 years ago helped pave my way into the health care arena by guiding me towards a very rewarding career. I am forever grateful to this incredible organization of higher learning. On a professional level, the mission of the SUNY Orange Foundation is in complete alignment with my mission, which is to mentor, grow, and develop the next generation of professionals.”
Joseph Crawford, Jr.
"When I reflect on the impact of the SUNY Orange Foundation, I see a powerful force for selfless generosity, transformative opportunity, and community enrichment. The Foundation has made a profound difference in the lives of countless students, alumni, and local businesses. I am deeply proud to be a part of this incredible work. As one of the newest members of the board, I am eager to leverage the resources at my disposal to further the vision of the SUNY Orange Foundation and continue to foster its positive influence in our community."
A visionary leader, passionate advocate for technology, education, and mentorship, Joseph Crawford Jr., brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the SUNY Orange Foundation Board. As the Global Head of Professional Services at Glassbox, Joseph oversees digital experience monitoring solutions for major enterprise and mid-market companies. His expertise has made him a sought-after speaker at industry conferences such as ProductConNY and CXFS Connect Toronto, and his thought leadership has been featured in publications like Information Week and StarCIO.com.
Before his tenure at Glassbox, Joseph held leadership roles at Citigroup and Morgan Stanley, where he spearheaded customer experience monitoring and data analytics initiatives. In addition to his corporate experience, Joseph is an entrepreneur and consultant. He founded J.D. Joseph Consulting, offering enterprise monitoring solutions, IT services, and software sales.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Joseph is deeply committed to community service and mentorship. In addition to joining the SUNY Orange Foundation Board in 2025, he serves on the Board of Directors for Family Church NY and directs youth chess programs at the Newburgh Armory Unity Center (NAUC) and the YMCA of Middletown, NY. He also dedicates time to coaching youth sports, including flag football and basketball with Old Skewl and 12th Rock Sports.
Joseph holds a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from Georgia Institute of Technology and has earned industry certifications, including IBM Certified Business Analyst and ITIL Certifications. His technical expertise spans enterprise monitoring solutions, cloud platforms, data analytics tools, and multiple programming languages. At home in Middletown, NY, Joseph and his wife, Jillian, have been married for 19 years and are proud parents to two boys, JT and Jonah.
Anthony DiCapua
Anthony S. Di Capua, is a distinguished member of the SUNY Orange Foundation Board of Directors. With over ten years of experience in wealth management, Anthony has been instrumental in guiding our strategic initiatives and supporting the foundation’s mission.
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As the Vice President of Wealth Management at Focused Wealth Management, Anthony excels in creating customized financial plans that foster long-term growth and stability. His professional background is complemented by a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Mount Saint Mary College, along with FINRA Series 7 and Series 66 Licenses and a New York State Life & Health Insurance License (CRD# 6774954).
Anthony is a lifelong resident of the Hudson Valley and is passionate about contributing to the development and prosperity of the community. Having had family attend SUNY Orange and witnessing firsthand the positive impact the college has on its students is the driving force behind Anthony’s commitment to help drive our efforts in serving the needs of our community and
achieving our goals.
Anthony also serves on the SUNY Orange Foundation Investment committee, as well as the Development committee.
Conor Eckert '16
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“Throughout my career, I often reflect on my time at SUNY Orange and the significant role it played in my development. The College provided me with an affordable, high-quality education that laid the groundwork for my academic and professional success. I’m honored to give back to the institution that has given me so much.”
Conor Eckert’s journey with SUNY Orange began when he was a student in 2015. Conor credits SUNY Orange with providing the foundation and skills that have guided him throughout his academic and professional career. Conor transferred to Binghamton University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Public Policy, and a Master of Public Administration.
Conor currently serves as the Vice President of Business Attraction and Senior Development Officer at the Orange County Partnership, where he focuses on attracting new jobs and investment to Orange County through site selection and development efforts. Beyond his role in economic development, Conor has successfully brokered partnerships between educational institutions and industries, creating pipelines that connect local talent with emerging job opportunities.
Conor’s dedication to SUNY Orange continues as he serves on the Foundation Board of Directors, a position he has held since 2021. As the Chair of the Marketing Committee, Conor plays a pivotal role in shaping the Foundation’s outreach efforts and enhancing the Foundation’s visibility in the community. Conor also serves on the Development committee. His insights as an alumnus, coupled with his professional experience, provide the Board with a unique perspective on the vital role SUNY Orange plays in educating and training local talent.
“Throughout my career, I often reflect on my time at SUNY Orange and the significant role it played in my development. The College provided me with an affordable, high-quality education that laid the groundwork for my academic and professional success. I’m honored to give back to the institution that has given me so much.”
Marlene Janker '96
Marlene Janker brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the SUNY Orange Foundation Board of Directors, where she has served with dedication since 2017. As the owner of Marlene A. Janker, MSPT, Physical Therapy, PLLC, and a partner at Orange County Pediatric Therapy Group, SLP, OT, PT, PLLC, Marlene has made a significant impact in the field of physical therapy, particularly in early intervention for children aged 0-3 years.
Marlene's educational journey began at SUNY Orange, where she graduated from the Physical Therapy Assistant program. She continued her studies at the University at Buffalo, earning dual bachelor's degrees in Exercise Physiology and Health Sciences. Her passion for physical therapy led her to Mercy College, where she obtained her Master’s in Physical Therapy.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Marlene remains deeply connected to SUNY Orange. She is an active member of the SUNY Orange Scholarship Committee, where she plays a crucial role in supporting students' educational pursuits. Additionally, she co-chairs the SUNY Orange Foundation Alumni Committee, demonstrating her dedication to fostering alumni engagement and support for the college community.
Outside of her professional and volunteer commitments, Marlene is passionate about living an active lifestyle. She enjoys traveling and spending time outdoors, embracing activities that keep her connected to nature. Marlene is also a personal trainer and dedicates her time to coaching the Special Olympics swim team, where she encourages athletes to achieve their best.
Johnnieanne Hansen '04
“As an alum and a self-proclaimed superfan, I deeply understand the vital role SUNY Orange County Community College plays in supporting the workforce and shaping our future. I'm passionate about the evolving traditional and nontraditional pathways that provide access to education and opportunities for growth. Johnieanne stated. “Serving on the SUNY Orange Foundation board is an incredibly rewarding way for me to support the college's mission and contribute to the strength of our region.”
Johnnieanne Hansen is an accomplished business and non-profit association leader. Currently serving as the Vice President of the Council of Industry of Southeastern New York, the manufacturers association of the Hudson Valley, she is at the forefront of driving institutional growth, enhancing member engagement and developing impactful workforce programs that address the critical skills gap in the manufacturing industry. Johnnieanne has been instrumental in launching initiatives such as the Manufacturing Intermediary Apprenticeship Program (MIAP) and the Manufacturing Career Hub, which connects job seekers with opportunities in manufacturing. Her commitment to building career pathways has led to successful partnerships with local high schools and community colleges, empowering the next generation of industry professionals.
With a strong background in executive recruitment, training, and business development, Johnnieanne previously held leadership positions at Walden Savings Bank and Coldwell Banker Currier and Lazier, where she focused on executive relocation and corporate training.
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Beyond her role at the Council of Industry, Johnnieanne is a passionate educator, serving as an adjunct professor at SUNY New Paltz and Mount Saint Mary College. Her teaching focuses on leadership and human resources management, reflecting her dedication to nurturing future leaders.
Johnnieanne is actively involved in several organizations, including the Hudson Valley Manufacturing Workforce Center, the National Association of Manufacturers Workforce Committee, the SUNY Orange Foundation, Mid-Hudson Teachers Association, the Dutchess County Workforce Investment Board and the Mid-Hudson Regional Economic Development Council’s Work Committee, where she continues to advocate for workforce development and educational advancement.
She holds a Master of Arts from Marist College, a Bachelor of Science from Dominican University, and an Associate's degree from SUNY Orange County Community College. Johnnieanne lives in Newburgh, NY, with her family and is deeply committed to making a positive impact in her community and beyond.
“As an alum and a self-proclaimed superfan, I deeply understand the vital role SUNY Orange County Community College plays in supporting the workforce and shaping our future. I'm passionate about the evolving traditional and nontraditional pathways that provide access to education and opportunities for growth. Johnieanne stated. “Serving on the SUNY Orange Foundation board is an incredibly rewarding way for me to support the college's mission and contribute to the strength of our region.”
Mario Jimenez
“Supporting SUNY Orange and its Foundation is about investing in the future of our community. Education empowers individuals, strengthens businesses, and builds a brighter tomorrow for the Hudson Valley”
Mario Jimenez is an accomplished banking professional with over two decades of experience, currently serving as the Assistant Vice President for Mid-Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union. With a rich background spanning various roles within the financial industry, Mario brings a wealth of expertise and leadership to his current position.
In his current role, Mario holds operational and financial responsibility for key markets including Orange, Dutchess, Putnam, Rockland, and Westchester counties. His responsibilities include training and developing branch managers and staff, ensuring consistent service quality across the region, and driving profitability. A firm believer that people are the most valuable asset, Mario is dedicated to fostering brand awareness and strengthening customer relationships throughout these markets.
Mario's professional journey began humbly as a teller, where he laid the foundation for his successful career. Over the years, he steadily advanced, obtaining his Series 6, 63, health, and life insurance FINRA securities licenses — a testament to his commitment to professional growth and excellence.
In addition to his professional success, Mario is deeply committed to serving the local community. He serves as an Ambassador for the Orange County Chamber of Commerce, where he helps build strong local connections and support business development.
Mario’s guiding philosophy is simple yet powerful: "Without commitment, you'll never start, and without consistency, you'll never finish." He understands that true success lies not just in reaching goals but in embracing the journey itself.
Mario resides in Goshen, New York, with his wife and children, and finds joy in spending quality time with them. His love for adventure often takes him to tropical beaches, where he enjoys relaxing and recharging. A passionate music lover, Mario enjoys live performances and maintains an active lifestyle through various sports.
With his unwavering commitment to service, leadership, and community impact, Mario Jimenez is a valuable addition to the SUNY Orange Foundation Board of Directors. His experience, insight, and passion will undoubtedly help advance the Foundation’s mission and support students in achieving their educational goals.
Marianna Kennedy
Treasurer
Karen Mejia
Karen Mejía, a dedicated and dynamic leader, was appointed as a SUNY Orange trustee by New York State Governor Kathy Hochul in August 2022. She then became the SUNY Orange trustee Foundation board member. With over 25 years of professional experience, Mejía has made significant contributions to public and private partnerships, particularly within the non-profit sector, community development, and governmental policy. Her work has taken her across continents, where she has successfully designed and managed local venture capital initiatives in Africa and Latin America. These initiatives were aimed at fostering growth in small and medium enterprises, showcasing her global perspective and commitment to economic development.
Beyond her international endeavors, Mejía has been deeply involved in addressing critical local issues. As a former council member in the City of Newburgh, she played a pivotal role in tackling the foreclosure and rental crisis, working closely with her colleagues to support her community. Her passion for social justice and community empowerment is further reflected in her role as the Assistant Director at the 1199SEIU Training and Employment Funds, where she continues to influence policy and practice in workforce development. Mejía is also a founding member of Local Progress NY and actively serves on various local boards, contributing her expertise to the betterment of her community.
A native of El Salvador, Mejía’s journey to the United States at the age of eight has informed her deep commitment to community service and advocacy. She holds a master's degree from New York University and a bachelor’s degree from Brown University. Mejía, her partner, their daughter, and their Siberian husky proudly call the City of Newburgh home, where they continue to be active and engaged members of the community.
Richard Rowley
Rich Rowley is a name synonymous with entrepreneurial success and generosity in the Hudson Valley. With a distinguished career in construction and the building supply industry, Rowley’s legacy extends beyond his professional achievements, deeply impacting the region through his philanthropy and community involvement.
After selling his company in 2006, Rowley dedicated much of his time to supporting SUNY Orange. Inspired by his sister’s positive experience at the college and the successes of friends who attended, Rowley became a passionate advocate for the institution. He has been on the Foundation board for well over a decade, and served as chairman, helping to raise $25.1 million to enhance the college’s infrastructure. His $1 million personal donation led to the creation of the Rowley Center for Science and Engineering, a state-of-the-art STEM facility in Middletown.
Rowley shares his commitment to the community with his wife, Marianne Murray. Together, they have made a significant impact on the area through their civic efforts, supporting causes ranging from education and childcare to women’s health, food insecurity, and community enrichment. Rich is an active member of the Orange Bank & Trust board of directors, where he serves on several key committees. He also chairs the board of directors for Hudson Valley Investment Advisors, serves on the Bethel Woods board, and established the Middletown High School Academy of Finance program. His development of the Orange Open Golf Tournament, benefiting the Orange County Chamber of Commerce and the United Way, further highlights his dedication to the region’s growth.
On the SUNY Orange Foundation board, Rowley consistently contributes to advancing its mission. As an executive board member and active participant on the finance committee, his impact is invaluable.
Sue Sheehan
“If it was not for a SUNY Orange Nursing student, I would not be here today.”
Sue Sheehan has been a valued member of the Board of Directors since 2016, bringing a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to education and community service. As an alumna of SUNY New Paltz, where she earned her degrees in Psychology and Humanistic-Multicultural Education in 1989, Sue’s passion for learning has been a guiding force throughout her career. Her dedication to higher education is exemplified by her 17 years of service at SUNY Orange, where she shaped the academic experiences of countless students as both a professor and an administrator.
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Sue’s impact extends beyond her professional contributions. She established a scholarship in memory of her late husband, Ralph Sheehan, Jr., reflecting her commitment to supporting students in their educational journeys. She also serves on the scholarship committee, having been an active member since 2016, ensuring that deserving students receive the financial support they need to succeed.
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In addition to her work in education, Sue is a dedicated community leader. She currently serves as President of the Board of Directors for the Middletown Kiwanis Club and only recently retired from the Salvation Army board after 21 years of service.
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Sue’s dedication to education and her community makes her an invaluable member of the Board of Directors. “If it was not for a SUNY Orange Nursing student, I would not be here today,” Sue reflects, recalling a hospital stay when a sharp-eyed nursing student’s observation led to a life-saving procedure. This experience fuels her passion for supporting SUNY Orange, knowing firsthand the profound impact its students have on the community.
Trinity Stackhouse, Student Board Member
Meet Trinity Stackhouse, our inspiring student board member, born and raised in Newburgh, NY, just minutes away from SUNY Orange’s Newburgh campus. After graduating at the top of her class from Newburgh Free Academy in 2021, Trinity began her college journey at SUNY Orange, where she became the first person in her family to earn a college degree. Starting with an associate degree in Business Administration, Trinity decided to stay and further her studies in Human Services, continuing her outstanding academic performance as a Dean’s List honoree.
Trinity’s passion for helping others led her to connect with Executive Director Dawn Ansbro, where she took the initiative to create informational videos about SUNY Orange’s scholarship opportunities. Her dedication to serving the community and uplifting fellow students exemplifies her commitment to making a difference.
By next May, Trinity plans to graduate and transfer to SUNY New Paltz, where she’ll continue her journey toward a PhD in Psychology. Her ultimate goal? To open a therapy center that provides diverse therapeutic approaches for clients in need.
Derrik Wynkoop
"I simply love the work of the Foundation and its mission to provide scholarships to students as well as foster an environment where alumni can stay connected to the college."
Derrik Wynkoop has been a dedicated leader and a passionate advocate for community growth and development throughout his career. Since 2011, he has served as President and CEO of Walden Savings Bank, one of the nation's oldest mutual savings banks with 12 locations across Orange, Dutchess, and Ulster Counties. Prior to his current role, Derrik was the CFO of Hudson Valley Credit Union.
Derrik moved to Walden in 1991, along with his wife Allison, where they would raise 3 children. Derrik's SUNY Orange connections run deep, with two of his three children having attended SUNY Orange. A particularly proud moment for Derrik was in 2016 when he handed his son Matthew his diploma as one of the first graduates of the New Media program.
Derrik is actively involved in the community and his other not for profit board work includes the Community Foundation of Orange & Sullivan, Wallkill Valley Health Center (affiliate of Sun River Health); Hudson Valley Pattern for Progress, Marist Scholars – Chairman and many, many others. In 2024, Derrik received the 29th Ottaway Medal from Vision Hudson Valley for his unwavering commitment to Orange County.
Derrik's commitment to SUNY Orange and its mission is reflected in his long-standing service on the SUNY Orange Foundation Board. Having first joined the board in 1999, he returned in 2010 after a brief hiatus, bringing with him a wealth of experience and a renewed passion for the Foundation's work. Over the years, Derrik has chaired the Leadership event for several years and later joined the Executive Committee, where he served as Foundation Chairman in 2018 and 2019. One of his most significant contributions was leading the search committee that successfully hired the Foundation's current Executive Director, Dawn Ansbro, in 2018—an achievement Derrik considers one of his proudest moments with the Foundation.
Today, Derrik continues to serve on the Executive Committee as an ex-officio board member, where his enthusiasm for the Foundation’s mission remains as strong as ever. He is particularly passionate about the work of providing scholarships to students and fostering an environment where alumni can stay connected to the college. "I simply love the work of the Foundation and its mission to provide scholarships to students as well as foster an environment where alumni can stay connected to the college," Derrik says.
Dr. Kristine Young, SUNY Orange President
A collaborative leader who has aligned with colleagues and external partners to grow enrollment and reshape the daily experience for the community college students of today, SUNY Orange President Dr. Kristine Young is simultaneously assuring that the College will be viable and thriving through its upcoming 75th anniversary and well beyond.
Strategic approaches to improving support services, acquiring transformational federal and state grants, and blending the best elements of Guided Pathways principles with the College’s historic academic strengths have positioned SUNY Orange to better serve students and the community-at-large.
As a result, SUNY Orange enrollment has increased for five successive academic sessions (Spring, Summer and Fall of 2023, and Winter and Spring 2024) while national enrollment trends for community colleges have rebounded more slowly in the wake of a decade of declines.
While academics are one pillar of the community college mission, Young, in her ninth year as president, is positioning SUNY Orange to more robustly address its role in supporting regional economic development. Informed by community partners, the College is identifying and delivering workforce certification and training programs, and other educational services that lead to sustainable wages and employment growth for area residents.
During Young’s tenure, SUNY Orange has secured nearly $15 million in grants and other funding from local, state and federal agencies that support the College’s successful implementation of SUNY Orange’s Strategic Plan 2020-2025, the roadmap by which SUNY Orange will reach its 75th anniversary in 2025.
A native of Northeastern Pennsylvania, Young came to SUNY Orange following a 17-year tenure at Parkland College in Champaign, Ill., having served as an associate professor of chemistry, the department chair for natural sciences, and the vice president for academic services.
Young is honored to offer leadership for the 2023-24 academic year to her peers as president of NYCCAP, the New York Community College Presidents. She continues to serve as co-chair of the Mid-Hudson Regional Economic Development Council, having been named to that post in February 2022 following five years of service on the Council. She was on the Board of Directors of the American Association of Community Colleges from 2019-22, serving on its executive committee as well as leading two commissions. She continues to serve on multiple local Boards, including the Orange County Chamber of Commerce.