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 '84
“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.​
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.
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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
“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 Chief Executive 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.
Stephanie James '12
"I am passionate about SUNY Orange and the SUNY Orange Foundation because I believe knowledge is power- and through Education, we unlock potential, uplift lives, and build a stronger, more vibrant community”
A proud SUNY Orange alumnus, Stephanie brings over a decade of banking and community leadership experience to the SUNY Orange Foundation Board. After earning her Associate's degree in Business Administration, Stephanie continued her academic journey, earning a Bachelor's in Business Administration from Pace University and is pursuing her MBA in Finance from the University of Scranton.
Professionally, Stephanie is a Relationship Manager at Provident Bank, specializing in commercial lending, credit risk management, and long-term client relationships. Prior to this, she served in leadership roles at Orange Bank & Trust Company, including Vice President where she worked closely with small businesses and community organizations throughout the region.
Beyond the boardroom, Stephanie is a dedicated community advocate. Stephanie co-chairs the Alumni Committee for Leadership Orange, and serves on the Ambassadors Committee with the Orange County Chambers of Commerce. Stephanie also supports youth programs where her two daughters Kennedy and Madison attend school including Elementary PTO and the Minisink Valley Soccer League.
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Stephanie is passionate about creating pathways to success for students and giving back to the college that helped shape her career. Stephanie's service to the SUNY Orange Foundation reflects a commitment to educational access, economic empowerment, and community growth.
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 CEO 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.
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Elinor "Eli" Hart
“In my unique role serving on both boards, I see the remarkable dedication of both the College and the Foundation—lifting students academically and supporting them through life beyond the classroom. Together, we’re building the kind of community where students can truly succeed.”
Elinor Hart is a dedicated community advocate whose passion for education, land preservation, and public service makes her an exceptional member of the SUNY Orange Foundation Board of Directors. As the Trustee Representative to the Foundation Board, Elinor occupies a unique role as the only individual currently serving on both the SUNY Orange Board of Trustees and the Foundation’s Board of Directors. This dual perspective strengthens the partnership between the College and the Foundation, ensuring that strategic priorities remain closely aligned and that student-centered initiatives benefit from unified leadership.
Eli brings a rich background in nonprofit governance, environmental advocacy, and community planning. She currently serves on the Board of the Wild Woods Restoration Project in Salisbury Mills, a nonprofit dedicated to restoring native woodlands, and on the Orange County Planning Board, helping guide responsible land use and long-term community development. As chair of the Garden Club of Orange and Dutchess Counties’ Horticulture Committee, she also leads the group’s educational collaboration with Newburgh Free Academy West and Downing Park.
Her commitment to community preservation is reflected in her service as chair of the Blooming Grove Community Preservation Committee. She previously served as secretary of the Hudson Highlands Nature Center’s Board of Trustees and now contributes to the Center’s Education Committee. Her prior leadership roles also include membership on the Orange County Climate Resilience Planning Advisory Committee, vice president of the Orange County Land Trust, and service on the Blooming Grove Conservation Advisory Commission.
Elinor’s dedication to youth and education extends into her earlier volunteer work as a counselor and coach for the Taft Elementary School Girls Running Club, where she served from 2009 to 2015, encouraging confidence, wellness, and leadership in young students.
Eli earned her bachelor’s degree in industrial/organizational psychology and business management from Moravian University and her master of education in secondary school counseling from Kutztown University. Her professional and academic background informs her thoughtful approach to supporting student success and community partnerships.
Within the SUNY Orange Foundation, Elinor’s leadership helps advance the mission of expanding access to transformative educational opportunities. Her insights, strengthened by her dual service as a trustee and Foundation board member, play an important role in shaping initiatives that benefit students, faculty, and the broader community.
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.
Stella Page
Student Board Member
Megan Robbins
"I am so excited to be a part of this amazing organization and help offer my support and guidance to the next generation of scholars in our county. Education is the key to success and offers the best foundation for any career path."
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Megan Robbins joins the SUNY Orange Foundation Board with a career dedicated to prevention, advocacy, and community well-being. As a Resource Coordinator II for the NYS Unified Court System, Megan works to connect individuals with community resources and support services, fostering collaboration between the courts and local organizations. A passionate mental health advocate, she also facilitates suicide prevention trainings across Orange County, equipping individuals and organizations with the tools to save lives.
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Megan’s connection to SUNY Orange began as a Criminal Justice student, where she laid the foundation for her career. She went on to earn her bachelor’s degree in Criminology from Mount Saint Mary College, where she received the college’s first-ever Excellence in Criminology Award in 2017. Her successful internship with Orange County Probation sparked her interest in substance use prevention and inspired her future path.
Throughout her career, Megan has collaborated closely with community coalitions. She served as the coordinator for both a federal Drug Free Communities grant in Port Jervis and the TEAM Newburgh Community Coalition through the Office of Addiction and Support Services (OASAS). Today, she remains an active member of the Middletown Cares Coalition and continues to advocate for bridging the gap between the community and local resources.
Megan was named an Orange County Rising Star in 2019 for her work in creating the first-ever youth coalition at Port Jervis High School and received the Orange County Executive’s Award for Outstanding Youth Worker in 2020 for her work with the Youth Coalition.
A proud alumna of the Leadership Orange Young Professionals program, now known as E.D.G.E. she now co-chairs the program. She is also a 2024 graduate of the Leadership Orange Signature Program. She is currently advancing her expertise through the NYS OASAS (Office of Addiction Support and Services) Leadership Academy, where she will graduate in October 2025.
At home, Megan enjoys spending time with her husband, Matt, and their two children, Madilynn and Myles. She remains deeply inspired by the words of Nelson Mandela: “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world for the better.”
Marianna Kennedy
Treasurer
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.
Wyoma Svarczkopf
"As a first-generation college student and now College and Careers educator, I know how transformative education can be in anyone’s life. Community colleges are invaluable because they serve as a cost-effective launching pad into a world of opportunities. I often encourage my own students to look at SUNY Orange because of the expansive list of degrees, certifications, and pathways to further education and meaningful careers. One of the best ways a community can grow and thrive is by making higher education accessible to everyone, and SUNY Orange has been doing exactly that for generations of Hudson Valley residents."
Wyoma Svarczkopf brings a unique blend of professional experience and educational passion to the SUNY Orange Foundation Board. A former Certified Public Accountant turned public school educator, Wyoma began her journey in the Hudson Valley as a student at SUNY New Paltz before earning her Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the College of Staten Island (CUNY).
Wyoma launched her career in public accounting with RBT Certified Public Accountants, where she specialized in financial auditing and worked with a diverse range of clients including nonprofit organizations, government entities, fire districts, and school systems. During her time at RBT, she earned her CPA license and continued serving the community as Chair of the Town of Montgomery Board of Ethics and as a member of the United Way Community Impact Council. There, she gained firsthand insight into the growing needs of the Hudson Valley, especially the increasing role nonprofits play in supporting student success.
It was during the pandemic that Wyoma discovered her calling in education. She made a bold transition from auditing to teaching, joining the Kingston City School District as a Business Teacher. In this role, she guides students in preparing for futures ranging from higher education to trades, apprenticeships, or direct entry into the workforce. While teaching, she pursued her Master of Science in Education from SUNY Oswego, further deepening her commitment to student development.
As a first-generation college graduate, Wyoma is especially passionate about making higher education accessible and achievable for all students. She is driven by her belief in the transformative power of education, and she continues to champion the importance of community colleges like SUNY Orange in shaping the future of the Hudson Valley.
Zach Szabo
“I am truly honored to be involved with a Foundation that is dedicated to supporting higher education for students within our community.”
Zach Szabo is a young engineering professional from Orange County with a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from SUNY Buffalo (2017). He has served as a Project Engineer at Engineering & Surveying Properties, PC in Montgomery, NY for the past eight years, where his expertise in project coordination and collaboration has enabled him to facilitate projects of varying sizes, fostering responsible and meaningful community growth.
In addition to his professional role, Zach serves as the acting Secretary for the local chapter of the NYS Society of Professional Engineers, an organization that provides education, career development, and networking opportunities for engineering professionals and students. His involvement in career fairs further reflects his commitment to advocating for STEM professions and guiding emerging talent.
A lifelong resident of Orange County, Zach places a high value on the educational opportunities available locally, particularly those provided by SUNY Orange.
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.