Board Member Spotlights
Individual profiles of the SUNY Orange Foundation Board of Directors.
Rebecca Reynolds
Chair, SUNY Orange Foundation Board of Directors
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, reflecting a strong commitment to education and professional excellence.
Rebecca has been a part of the RBT Certified Public Accountants team since 2014, where she advanced to become a partner in the audit department. A Certified Public Accountant licensed in New York State, she brings extensive experience serving a diverse range of clients, including commercial entities and not-for-profit organizations.
Rebecca was born and raised in Highland, New York, where she continues to reside with her husband Chris, and their dog Winnie. In her free time, she 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), serving on both the Healthcare and Non-Profit Committees, and is also a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). She is deeply engaged in he community, with nine years of volunteer service with the United Way of Dutchess-Orange. Rebecca also serves 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. Her leadership and service were recognized with the 2023 Hudson Valley 40 Under 40 award.
Rebecca assumed the role of Chair of the SUNY Orange Foundation Board of Directors in January 2026, following two years of service as Chair-Elect and Chair of the Finance Committee. Her leadership reflects years of experience in financial governance and long-standing service to nonprofit organizations in the region.
Anthony Di Capua
Chair Elect, SUNY Orange Foundation Board of Directors
Anthony S. Di Capua, is a leader in wealth management, with more than ten years of professional experience. He currently serves as Vice President of Wealth Management, where he specializes in developing customized financial plans that support long-term growth and stability.
Anthony holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Mount Saint Mary College and maintains FINRA Series 7 and Series 66 Licenses and a New York State Life & Health Insurance License (CRD# 6774954).
A lifelong resident of the Hudson Valley, Anthony is deeply committed to the continued growth and vitality of the community. With family members who attended SUNY Orange, he has seen firsthand the impact the College has on its students, which informs his commitment to supporting the Foundation's work and advancing educational opportunity in the region.
Anthony serves on the SUNY Orange Investment Committee and Development Committee. In January 2026, he assumed the role of Chair-Elect of the SUNY Orange Foundation Board of Directors, bringing financial expertise and a strong commitment to advancing the Foundation's mission.
Kathy Frommer
Vice Chair, SUNY Orange Foundation Board of Directors
Kathy Frommer is a technology entrepreneur and philanthropist with a long-standing commitment to both business leadership and community service. With over a decade of service on the SUNY Orange Foundation Board of Directors, Kathy has played an important role in supporting the Foundation's work and advancing its mission. She currently serves as Vice Chair of the Board of Directors and is a member of the Investment Committee.
Kathy is the former Chief Executive Officer and co-founder of CRS Retail Systems in Newburgh, New York. During her tenure, she guided the company through periods of significant growth, two acquisitions, and major technology initiatives, contributing to its long-term success in the retail technology sector.
Beyond her professional career, Kathy has demonstrated a deep commitment to philanthropy and civic engagement. She was honored as a recipient of the SUNY Orange Foundation Leadership Award in 2012. Her service includes board involvement with several regional organizations, including the Orange County Partnership, Orange Regional Medical Center, McQuade Children's Services, and Bethel Woods Center for the Arts.
A lifelong resident of Orange County, Kathy remains actively engaged in initiatives that strengthen and support the local community. She is married to Don Frommer, and together they raised two children. Kathy enjoys spending time with her family, exploring the Hudson Valley, and supporting community-focused efforts.
“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.”
Adam McCarey '96
Immediate Past Chair, SUNY Orange Foundation Board of Directors
Adam McCarey, a 1996 graduate of SUNY Orange and a 1998 graduate of the University at Albany, has served on the SUNY Orange Foundation Board of Directors since 2017. With a career rooted in public safety and government relations Adam brings extensive experience in leadership, crisis management, and municipal operations to his service on the Board.
Adam is a retired firefighter and former fire inspector for the City of Middletown, where he developed a strong background in emergency response and public safety operations. He has also served as a New York State Uniformed Building and Fire Code instructor and works as a compliance and land use consultant and integrity monitor for both municipal and private entities.
In addition to his professional work, Adam is actively engaged in community service. He has served on numerous committees, including the Otisville/Mount Hope Presbyterian Church Safety Committee, and previously served as Chair of the SUNY Orange Foundation Alumni Committee.
Adam and his wife, Ashley, are the parents of three children, Addison, Amelia, and Austin. He credits the support of his family as an important source of encouragement in his continued community involvement.
Adam served as Chair of the SUNY Orange Foundation Board of Directors through December 2025 and, as of January 2026, served as Immediate Past Chair. His leadership has focused on expanding educational opportunities for students, and deepening the College's connection to the community. In recognition of the impact SUNY Orange has had on his life, Adam also established a scholarship with the Foundation in honor of his mother, Barbara Gobeo.
“I am honored to be part of an organization that supports higher education. SUNY Orange provided me with a strong foundation, and I hope that through our collective efforts as a Foundation, we can offer the same opportunity to others.”
Margaret Deyo Allers '84
Board Member
Margaret Deyo Allers is a nurse executive with more than 30 years of experience in healthcare leadership. She serves as 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 operating budget. Her leadership has supported the hospital’s achievement of numerous distinctions, including top statewide rankings in critical care, Magnet designation, and national recognition among the top two percent of hospitals.
Margaret earned her Associate Degree in Nursing from SUNY Orange before completing her Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Master of Science in Nursing, with a concentration in Health Administration Management, from Mount Saint Mary College. Throughout her career, she has been a strong advocate for nursing professionals and has led initiatives focused on improving patient outcomes and advancing healthcare delivery.
Her professional experience includes successful union contract negotiations, the development of critical care programs, and active participation on key hospital committees. Margaret’s contributions to the field have been recognized through honors such as the New York State Hudson Valley Nurse of the Year award, and she has co-authored publications addressing healthcare transition models.
Margaret joined the SUNY Orange Foundation Board of Directors in 2024. She brings extensive healthcare leadership experience and a strong commitment to education and mentorship in support of the Foundation’s work and its impact on the College and the community.
“My involvement with the SUNY Orange Foundation Board of Directors is meaningful to me on both a personal and professional level. More than forty years ago, SUNY Orange helped pave my path into healthcare and guided me toward a deeply rewarding career. Professionally, the Foundation’s mission closely aligns with my own commitment to mentoring, developing, and supporting the next generation of professionals.”
Joseph Crawford, Jr.
Board Member
Joseph Crawford, Jr. brings a strong background in technology leadership, education advocacy, and mentorship to the SUNY Orange Foundation Board of Directors. He currently serves as Global Head of Professional Services at Glassbox, where he oversees digital experience monitoring solutions for enterprise and mid-market organizations.
Joseph’s professional expertise has made him a frequent speaker at industry conferences, including ProductCon NY and CXFS Connect Toronto, and his insights have been featured in publications such as InformationWeek and StarCIO.com. Prior to joining Glassbox, he held leadership roles at Citigroup and Morgan Stanley, where he led initiatives focused on customer experience monitoring and data analytics.
In addition to his corporate experience, Joseph is an entrepreneur and consultant. He founded J.D. Joseph Consulting, providing enterprise monitoring solutions, IT services, and software sales to a range of clients.
Beyond his professional work, Joseph is deeply committed to community service and mentorship. He joined the SUNY Orange Foundation Board of Directors in 2025 and also serves on the Board of Directors for Family Church NY. He directs youth chess programs at the Newburgh Armory Unity Center and the YMCA of Middletown, and volunteers as a coach for youth flag football and basketball.
Joseph holds a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from the Georgia Institute of Technology and has earned industry certifications, including IBM Certified Business Analyst and ITIL certifications. He resides in Middletown, New York, with his wife, Jillian, and their two sons, JT and Jonah.“
When I reflect on the impact of the SUNY Orange Foundation, I see a powerful force for generosity, opportunity, and community enrichment. The Foundation has made a meaningful difference in the lives of students, alumni, and local organizations, and I am proud to support its work. As one of the newest members of the Board, I look forward to contributing to the Foundation’s vision and helping strengthen its positive impact throughout the community.”
When I reflect on the impact of the SUNY Orange Foundation, I see a powerful force for generosity, opportunity, and community enrichment. The Foundation has made a meaningful difference in the lives of students, alumni, and local organizations, and I am proud to support its work. As one of the newest members of the Board, I look forward to contributing to the Foundation’s vision and helping strengthen its positive impact throughout the community.”
Conor Eckert
Board Member
Conor Eckert began his academic journey at SUNY Orange in 2015, where he developed the foundational skills that have guided his academic and professional path. He later transferred to Binghamton University, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Public Policy, followed by a Master of Public Administration.
Conor serves as Chief Executive Officer of the Orange County Partnership, where he focuses on attracting new jobs and investment to Orange County through site selection and development initiatives. In addition to his work in economic development, he has helped broker partnerships between educational institutions and industry, creating pathways that connect local talent with emerging workforce opportunities.
Conor has served on the SUNY Orange Foundation Board of Directors since 2021. As Chair of the Marketing Committee, he contributes to the Foundation’s outreach and visibility efforts and also serves on the Development Committee. His perspective as an alumnus, combined with his professional experience, supports the Board’s work in advancing educational and workforce opportunities throughout the region.
“Throughout my career, I often reflect on my time at SUNY Orange and the important 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 am honored to give back to the institution that has given me so much.”
Johnnieanne Hansen '04
Board Member
Johnnieanne Hansen ’04 is an accomplished business and nonprofit association leader with a strong commitment to workforce development and education. She serves as Chief Executive Officer of the Council of Industry of Southeastern New York, the Hudson Valley’s manufacturing association, where she focuses on organizational growth, member engagement, and the development of workforce programs that address critical skills gaps in the manufacturing sector.
Under her leadership, the Council of Industry has launched initiatives such as the Manufacturing Intermediary Apprenticeship Program and the Manufacturing Career Hub, which connects job seekers with career opportunities in manufacturing. Her work has fostered successful partnerships with local high schools and community colleges, helping to strengthen career pathways for the next generation of industry professionals.
Johnnieanne brings a diverse professional background in executive recruitment, training, and business development. She previously held leadership roles at Walden Savings Bank and Coldwell Banker Currier and Lazier, where she focused on executive relocation and corporate training.
In addition to her professional work, Johnnieanne is an adjunct professor at SUNY New Paltz and Mount Saint Mary College, teaching courses in leadership and human resources management. She is actively involved in numerous regional and national organizations, including the Hudson Valley Manufacturing Workforce Center, the National Association of Manufacturers Workforce Committee, the Mid-Hudson Teachers Association, the Dutchess County Workforce Investment Board, and the Mid-Hudson Regional Economic Development Council’s Workforce Committee.
Johnnieanne holds a Master of Arts from Marist College, a Bachelor of Science from Dominican University, and an Associate Degree from SUNY Orange County Community College. She resides in Newburgh, New York, and remains deeply committed to advancing workforce development and educational opportunity throughout the region.
“As an alum and a lifelong supporter of SUNY Orange, I understand the vital role the College plays in supporting the workforce and shaping our region’s future. I am especially passionate about expanding both traditional and nontraditional pathways that create access to education and opportunity. Serving on the SUNY Orange Foundation Board is a meaningful way for me to support the College’s mission and contribute to the strength of our community.”
Elinor "Eli" Hart
College Trustee Representative
Elinor Hart is a dedicated community advocate whose passion for education, conservation, 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.
As a lifelong resident of Blooming Grove, Eli grew up next to her grandparents’ apple farm, which fostered a strong connection to the land. Being part of a family of educators—along with pursuing her own academic path—sparked her dedication to supporting student success and expanding educational opportunity. Together, these experiences laid the foundation for her enduring commitment to education, community service, and responsible stewardship of the land.
Eli brings a rich background in nonprofit governance along with educational and environmental advocacy. She serves on the Orange County Planning Board and is a board member of Wild Woods Restoration Project. She is the current vice president of the Garden Club of Orange and Dutchess Counties, chair of the Blooming Grove Community Preservation Committee, a memberof the Hudson Highlands Nature Center’s Education Committee following her prior service as secretary of its Board of Trustees. Earlier in her volunteer work, Eli served for many years as a counselor and coach for the Taft Elementary School Girls Running Club and league director for the Washingtonville Girl’s CYO recreational basketball league, supporting confidence and wellness 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. She and her husband, Andy, have three adult children, two dogs, and are avid beekeepers.
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.
“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.”
Stephanie James '12
Board Member
Stephanie is a proud SUNY Orange alumna with more than a decade of experience in banking and community leadership. After earning her Associate Degree in Business Administration from SUNY Orange, she continued her education with a Bachelor’s in Business Administration from Pace University and is currently pursuing an MBA in Finance from the University of Scranton.
Professionally, Stephanie serves as a Relationship Manager at Provident Bank, where she specializes in commercial lending, credit risk management, and building long-term client relationships. Previously, she held leadership roles at Orange Bank & Trust Company, including Vice President, working closely with small businesses and community organizations throughout the region.
Beyond her professional career, Stephanie is an active community advocate. She co-chairs the Alumni Committee for Leadership Orange and serves on the Ambassadors Committee for the Orange County Chamber of Commerce. She is also involved in youth programs attended by her daughters, Kennedy and Madison, including Elementary PTO and the Minisink Valley Soccer League.
Stephanie’s service to the SUNY Orange Foundation reflects her commitment to expanding educational opportunity, supporting economic empowerment, and strengthening community connections.
“I am passionate about SUNY Orange and the SUNY Orange Foundation because I believe knowledge is power. Through education, we unlock potential, uplift lives, and build a stronger, more vibrant community.”
Marlene Janker '96
Board Member
Marlene Janker has served on the SUNY Orange Foundation Board of Directors since 2017, bringing extensive experience in physical therapy and early childhood intervention. She is the owner of Marlene A. Janker, MSPT, Physical Therapy, PLLC, and a partner at Orange County Pediatric Therapy Group, SLP, OT, PT, PLLC, where her work focuses on early intervention services for children from birth to three years of age.
Marlene began her educational journey at SUNY Orange, graduating from the Physical Therapy Assistant program. She went on to earn dual bachelor’s degrees in Exercise Physiology and Health Sciences from the University at Buffalo, followed by a Master’s degree in Physical Therapy from Mercy College.
Marlene remains actively engaged with SUNY Orange through her service on the Scholarship Committee, supporting students’ educational goals. She is also the chair of the SUNY Orange Foundation Alumni Committee, helping to strengthen alumni engagement and connection to the College.
Outside of her professional and volunteer roles, Marlene maintains an active lifestyle and enjoys traveling and spending time outdoors. She is a certified personal trainer and volunteers as a coach for the Special Olympics swim team, where she supports athletes in reaching their full potential.
Mario Jimenez
Board Member
Mario Jimenez is an accomplished banking professional with more than two decades of experience in the financial services industry. He serves as Assistant Vice President at Mid-Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union, bringing extensive operational and leadership experience to his role.
In his position, Mario oversees operations across key markets in Orange, Dutchess, Putnam, Rockland, and Westchester counties. His responsibilities include training and developing branch managers and staff, maintaining consistent service standards, and supporting organizational growth. He places strong emphasis on relationship-building and believes that people are the most valuable asset in achieving long-term success.
Mario began his career as a teller and steadily advanced through a variety of roles within the financial industry. Along the way, he earned FINRA Series 6 and Series 63 licenses, as well as health and life insurance licenses, reflecting his commitment to professional development.
In addition to his professional work, Mario is actively involved in the community. He serves as an Ambassador for the Orange County Chamber of Commerce, where he supports local businesses and helps strengthen regional connections.
Mario’s approach to leadership is grounded in consistency and commitment, values that guide his professional and community involvement. He resides in Goshen, New York, with his wife and children and enjoys spending time with his family, traveling, attending live music events, and staying active through sports.
“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.”
Stella Page
Student Board Member
Megan Robbins
Board Member
Megan Robbins brings a career focused on prevention, advocacy, and community well-being to the SUNY Orange Foundation Board of Directors. She serves as a Resource Coordinator II for the New York State Unified Court System, where she connects individuals with community-based resources and support services while fostering collaboration between the courts and local organizations. A passionate mental health advocate, Megan also facilitates suicide prevention trainings throughout Orange County, equipping individuals and organizations with tools to support and save lives.
Megan’s connection to SUNY Orange began as a Criminal Justice student, where she established the foundation for her professional path. She went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in Criminology from Mount Saint Mary College and received the institution’s first-ever Excellence in Criminology Award in 2017. Her internship with Orange County Probation further shaped her interest in substance use prevention and community-based advocacy.
Throughout her career, Megan has worked closely with community coalitions. She served as coordinator for a federal Drug Free Communities grant in Port Jervis and for the TEAM Newburgh Community Coalition through the Office of Addiction and Support Services (OASAS). She remains an active member of the Middletown Cares Coalition and continues to advocate for strengthening connections between community members and local resources.
Megan’s leadership and service have been recognized through honors including Orange County Rising Star in 2019 and the Orange County Executive’s Award for Outstanding Youth Worker in 2020. She is a graduate of the Leadership Orange Young Professionals program (now E.D.G.E.), which she currently co-chairs, and a 2024 graduate of the Leadership Orange Signature Program. Megan also participated in the New York State OASAS Leadership Academy.
Megan lives with her husband, Matt, and their two children, Madilynn and Myles. She remains committed to advancing education, prevention, and community support initiatives throughout Orange County.
“I am excited to support the SUNY Orange Foundation and help guide the next generation of scholars in our community. Education provides a strong foundation for opportunity and long-term success.”
Richard Rowley
Board Member
Rich Rowley has had a long and influential career in construction and the building supply industry and is widely recognized for his philanthropic leadership in the Hudson Valley. His professional success has been matched by a deep commitment to community engagement and support for educational opportunity.
After selling his company in 2006, Rich dedicated significant time and resources to supporting SUNY Orange. Inspired by his sister’s experience at the College and by the success of friends who attended, he became a strong advocate for the institution. He has served on the SUNY Orange Foundation Board of Directors for almost two decades, and previously served as Chair, helping to raise $25.1 million to support campus infrastructure improvements. His $1 million personal contribution led to the creation of the Rowley Center for Science and Engineering, a state-of-the-art STEM facility in Middletown.
Rich and his wife, Marianne Murray, share a commitment to civic engagement and philanthropy. Together, they have supported a wide range of causes, including education, childcare, women’s health, food security, and community enrichment. Rich serves on the board of directors of Orange Bank & Trust and participates on several committees. He also chairs the board of Hudson Valley Investment Advisors, serves on the Bethel Woods board, and established the Middletown High School Academy of Finance program. He also founded the Orange Open Golf Tournament, which benefits the Orange County Chamber of Commerce and the United Way.
As a member of the SUNY Orange Foundation Board, Rich continues to support the Foundation’s mission through executive board service and as Chair of the Investment Committee.
Sue Sheehan
Board Member
Sue Sheehan has served on the SUNY Orange Foundation Board of Directors since 2016, bringing a strong commitment to education and community service. She is an alumna of SUNY New Paltz, where she earned degrees in Psychology and Humanistic–Multicultural Education in 1989. Sue’s dedication to higher education has been a guiding force throughout her career.
Sue spent 17 years at SUNY Orange as both a professor and an administrator, where she played an important role in shaping the academic experiences of countless students. Her connection to the College continues through her service on the Foundation Board and her ongoing involvement with the Scholarship Committee, where she has been an active member since 2016.
In honor of her late husband, Ralph Sheehan, Jr., Sue established a scholarship to support SUNY Orange students in pursuing their educational goals. This act reflects her deep belief in the power of education and her desire to ensure that students have the resources they need to succeed.
Beyond higher education, Sue is an active community leader. She currently serves as President of the Board of Directors for the Middletown Kiwanis Club and recently concluded 21 years of service on the Salvation Army Board of Directors.
Sue’s commitment to SUNY Orange is deeply personal. During a hospital stay, a SUNY Orange nursing student’s careful observation led to a life-saving procedure—an experience that reinforced for Sue the profound impact SUNY Orange students have on the community and strengthened her dedication to supporting the College and its mission.
“If it was not for a SUNY Orange Nursing student, I would not be here today.”
Wyoma Svarczkopf
Board Member
Wyoma Svarczkopf brings a unique blend of professional experience and educational passion to the SUNY Orange Foundation Board of Directors. A former Certified Public Accountant turned public school educator; she began her academic journey in the Hudson Valley at SUNY New Paltz before earning a 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 this time, she earned her CPA license and served the community as Chair of the Town of Montgomery Board of Ethics and as a member of the United Way Community Impact Council. These roles provided firsthand insight into the growing needs of the Hudson Valley and the critical role nonprofits play in supporting student success.
During the pandemic, Wyoma transitioned into education, joining the Kingston City School District as a Business Teacher. In this role, she prepares students for a wide range of postsecondary pathways, including higher education, trades, apprenticeships, and workforce entry. While teaching, she earned a Master of Science in Education from SUNY Oswego, further strengthening her commitment to student development.
As a first-generation college graduate, Wyoma is deeply committed to making higher education accessible and achievable for all students. She continues to advocate for the value of community colleges like SUNY Orange in expanding opportunity and strengthening the future of the Hudson Valley.
“As a first-generation college student and now a college and careers educator, I know how transformative education can be. Community colleges serve as a vital, affordable launching point into a world of opportunity, and SUNY Orange has been opening doors for generations of Hudson Valley residents.”
Zach Szabo
Board Member
Zach Szabo is an engineering professional from Orange County with a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from the University at Buffalo, earned in 2017. He has served as a Project Engineer at Engineering & Surveying Properties, PC in Montgomery, New York, for the past eight years, where his work in project coordination and collaboration supports projects of varying scope and contributes to responsible community growth.
In addition to his professional role, Zach serves as Acting Secretary for the local chapter of the New York State Society of Professional Engineers, an organization that provides education, career development, and networking opportunities for engineering professionals and students. His participation in career fairs reflects his interest in promoting STEM careers and supporting emerging talent.
A lifelong resident of Orange County, Zach values the educational opportunities available within the region and is particularly supportive of the role SUNY Orange plays in preparing students for successful careers.
“I am honored to be involved with a Foundation dedicated to supporting higher education and expanding opportunity for students in our community.”
Derrik Wynkoop
Board Member
Derrik Wynkoop has been a leader in community banking and economic development for more than three decades. Since 2011, he has served as President and Chief Executive Officer of Walden Savings Bank, one of the nation’s oldest mutual savings banks, with 12 locations across Orange, Dutchess, and Ulster counties. Prior to this role, Derrik served as Chief Financial Officer of Hudson Valley Credit Union.
Derrik and his wife, Allison, moved to Walden in 1991, where they raised their three children. His connection to SUNY Orange is deeply personal—two of his children attended the College, and in 2016, Derrik had the honor of presenting his son Matthew with his diploma as one of the first graduates of the New Media program.
Derrik is actively involved in nonprofit and civic leadership throughout the region. His board service includes the Community Foundation of Orange & Sullivan, Wallkill Valley Health Center (an affiliate of Sun River Health), Hudson Valley Pattern for Progress, and Marist Scholars, where he serves as Chairman, along with many others. In recognition of his longstanding commitment to Orange County, Derrik received the 29th Ottaway Medal from Vision Hudson Valley in 2024.
Derrik’s service to the SUNY Orange Foundation spans more than two decades. He first joined the Board in 1999 and returned in 2010 after a brief hiatus. Over the years, he has chaired the Foundation’s Leadership event, served on the Executive Committee, and held the role of Foundation Chair from 2018 to 2019. Among his most meaningful contributions was leading the search committee that hired the Foundation’s previous Executive Director, Dawn Ansbro, in 2018.
Derrik continues to serve on the SUNY Orange Foundation Board of Directors, bringing decades of experience and a deep commitment to the College and its mission. In April 2026, he will be honored with the Foundation’s Leadership Award in Community Service, presented in memory of Dawn Ansbro, in recognition of his longstanding service and meaningful contributions to SUNY Orange, the Foundation, and the broader community.
“I simply love the work of the Foundation and its mission to provide scholarships to students while fostering an environment where alumni can stay connected to the College.”
Dr. Kristine Young
President, SUNY Orange
Dr. Kristine Young is a collaborative leader who has worked closely with colleagues and external partners to grow enrollment and enhance the student experience, while guiding SUNY Orange through its 75th anniversary and positioning the College for continued success.
Through strategic improvements to student support services, the acquisition of transformational federal and state grants, and the thoughtful integration of Guided Pathways principles with the College’s academic strengths, SUNY Orange is better positioned to serve students and the broader community.
As a result of these efforts, SUNY Orange enrollment increased for six consecutive academic terms, during a period when national community college enrollment trends have recovered more slowly.
While academics remain central to the community college mission, Dr. Young has also focused on strengthening SUNY Orange’s role in regional economic development. In partnership with community stakeholders, the College has expanded workforce certification and training programs designed to support sustainable wages and employment growth throughout the region.
During Dr. Young’s tenure, SUNY Orange has secured nearly $15 million in grant funding and other resources from local, state, and federal agencies, supporting the implementation of the College’s Strategic Plan 2020–2025 and advancing its long-term vision.
A native of northeastern Pennsylvania, Dr. Young joined SUNY Orange following 17 years at Parkland College in Champaign, Illinois, where she served as an associate professor of chemistry, department chair for natural sciences, and Vice President for Academic Services.
Dr. Young served as President of the New York Community College Presidents (NYCCAP) for the 2023–2024 academic year and continues to serve as co-chair of the Mid-Hudson Regional Economic Development Council, a role she assumed in February 2022 after five years of prior service. She previously served on the Board of Directors of the American Association of Community Colleges from 2019–2022, including service on its Executive Committee, and remains active on several local boards, including the Orange County Chamber of Commerce.