Board of Directors

Dr. Reginald T. Braggs, Ph.D., Onondaga Community College

Dr. Braggs is the Director of CNY Partnerships at Onondaga Community College (OCC). His responsibilities include serving as liaison to various external entities, including but not limited to, workforce development organizations, community-based organizations, as well as government and business/industry leaders. Immediately prior to joining OCC, he served as the Assistant Vice President of Student Affairs at Prairie View A&M, University of Texas. He has experience working in Central New York having served as SUNY Oswego’s Director, Syracuse Campus; Director, CNY Partnerships and Enrollment, and Interim Executive to the President. Dr. Braggs has also worked internationally at the American University of Nigeria (AUN) where he led The New Foundation School Chibok Girls Education Initiative. The New Foundation School was established to provide a pathway to a college degree to the over 100 Chibok girls survivors who either escaped captivity or were released by the terrorist group Boko Haram. Reg has also worked in schools and universities in Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Kingdom of Bahrain, United Arab Emirates (UAE), Jordan, and the U.S. He is a former U.S. Navy officer who served his country on Navy ships and aircraft carriers. As a first-generation student, Reg is passionate about assisting and serving all students, especially minority, marginalized, and underrepresented students’ efforts to achieve their educational and career goals. He believes this is transformational for them, their families, and the community. He received his Ph.D. from Trident University International, M.B.A. from Texas Southern University, B.B.A. from Prairie View A&M, University of Texas and A.S. from San Diego Mesa Community College. Dr. Braggs is a graduate of FOCUS’ Citizens Academy 2021 cohort.

Carrie Carapella, SRC, Inc.

Carrie is the marketing events senior specialist at SRC, Inc., a local not-for-profit research corporation with the main function of research and development for the defense sector. In her role, Carrie manages the corporate exhibits and sponsorships at numerous domestic and international conferences. She also manages philanthropy efforts for SRC in Syracuse and regional offices. Previously, Carrie was the video coordinator at Visual Technologies, overseeing all video projects. In addition to her role on the FOCUS Board, she volunteers with several charitable organizations, including the Salvation Army and the Food Bank of CNY. Carrie is a graduate of the Leadership Greater Syracuse Class of 2022 and FOCUS’ Citizens Academy 2016 cohort.

Gerianne P. Corradino, SHRM-CP (Vice President), Central New York Community Foundation

Gerianne Corradino is the Human Resources & Operations Officer at the Central New York Community Foundation where she has worked since 2015. Corradino is responsible for overseeing the Central New York Philanthropy Center building and assisting the CFO with operational, IT, and personnel-related support. Corradino holds a Dual Bachelor of Arts in French literature and language & international trade from the State University of New York at Oswego. She is currently pursuing a master’s degree from Villanova University in Human Resource Development. She is a graduate of Leadership Greater Syracuse (LGS) class of 2021 and received her SHRM-CP certification in 2023. In addition to taking on the role of Vice President for the FOCUS Board, she is a graduate of FOCUS’ Citizens Academy, Fall 2023 cohort. Shortly after, she formed the Citizens Academy Committee to support FOCUS’ staff Corradino has been engaged in the Central New York community as a volunteer at the CNY SPCA, Clear Path for Veterans, Francis House, the Rescue Mission and CNY SHRM. Corradino resides in the City of Syracuse with her husband and two dogs.

Ryan R. Delao, CPA (Treasurer), Dannible & McKee, LLP

Ryan is a dedicated audit manager at Dannible and McKee, LLP, bringing a wealth of experience in providing comprehensive audit, review, compilation, and consulting services to a diverse array of clients. With a strong focus on the construction, architectural, engineering, and manufacturing industries, Ryan excels in delivering tailored solutions that meet the unique needs of each client. In addition to his industry expertise, Ryan possesses significant experience in providing auditing services to a variety of employee benefit plans and preparing financial statements for clients. He also assists clients with matters related to their overhead rate in accordance with Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR). He is a Certified Public Accountant in New York State and is an active member of both the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants (NYSSCPA). Ryan holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and a Master of Science in Information Systems, both from Le Moyne College, obtained in 2019. His blend of academic achievement and practical experience positions him as a trusted resource for clients seeking high-quality audit and consulting services.

Brian Fay, Syracuse Northeast Community Center

Brian Fay became Executive Director of the Syracuse Northeast Community Center in April 2020. He guided the agency through the pandemic, transformed programming, and engaged in new funding streams and services. Previously, he was the Director of Strategic Initiatives for the Syracuse Community Center Collaborative, where he advocated and represented the Collaborative across Syracuse and New York State, developed funding streams, and was part of the team developing new programs and programming. Before joining the nonprofit world, Brian was an English teacher for over two-decades inspiring at-risk youth to find their own paths towards success. His pedagogical philosophy centered on helping students learn to become self-sufficient, reflective, and able to connect with others. These values have translated well into his work at Syracuse Northeast Community Center whose mission is to engage, connect, and grow neighbors. Brian was born and raised in Syracuse. He and his family live in the Meadowbrook neighborhood. He is a 2020 Lead Up CNY graduate, and a graduate of FOCUS’ Citizens Academy 2019 cohort.

Lisa A. Hart – Public Health Analyst & Grants Manager

Lisa holds a master’s degree in Community/Public Health Education from the State University of New York (SUNY) at Brockport and a bachelor’s degree in nursing from SUNY Polytechnic Institute, national certifications as a Certified Case Manager (CCM) and Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES), and a license as a Professional Registered Nurse (RN) from New York State. Lisa is a lifelong resident of Syracuse. She moved into the City of Syracuse in 2015 and along with her husband, is restoring an older home to its former glory. Lisa has had a lengthy professional career holding various roles in healthcare and community/public health, with her current position as Public Health Analyst and Grants Manager with Syracuse Housing Authority, a public housing agency in Syracuse. She is a graduate of FOCUS’ Citizens Academy Fall 2022 cohort. Lisa’s work in the local community includes serving on boards, working the election polls, and volunteering with organizations that seek to address the social and economic determinants of health while promoting Central New York as a place where everyone can benefit from effective change leading to long-term positive effects on health, wellness, well-being, and an enhanced quality of life.

Rev. Lynnessa H. Joyner-Robinson, (Secretary), formerly Goodwill of the Finger Lakes

Rev. Lynnessa is a remarkable woman who has devoted her life to serving God and helping others. She is a native New Yorker, born in Brooklyn, and spent her formative years being raised by her grandparents in Atmore, AL, before moving back to Brooklyn with her family. Growing up in a diverse neighborhood, with 1st generation southern Italians and Hasidic Jewish neighbors, helped prepare her for her calling as a minister. She has held various leadership positions throughout her career, including Minister of Pastoral Care, Exec Asst. to the Pastor, Corresponding Secretary, Treasurer to local Moderators, and Administrative Leadership Team Member to State Convention Presidents of NY. She has also created and directed choirs nationwide and internationally and has been a keynote speaker and preacher for countless conferences for decades. In 2023, she became a black woman small business owner, when she soft launched her Christian-based development ministry, GIFT’M (Grace is for the Messy)! She helps people discover, cultivate, and align their lives with God’s purpose using Creative Leadership tools, praying, teaching, and anointing. She is a dedicated lifelong learner. In addition to pursuing a specialized professional degree program in Creative Leadership at Syracuse University, she is a graduate of FOCUS’ Citizens Academy Winter 2023 Cohort. She changed her professional field after working for five years as an Admin Specialist and President of the Exec Committee for DEIA for the Advancement and External Affairs Unit at Syracuse University. She decided to pursue her calling and served as the Community Resource Navigator for Goodwill of Finger Lakes, focusing on Onondaga County. On August 28, 2021, she was blessed to become the wife of Deacon Michael J. Robinson, whom she knows is a gift to her from the Lord. She is known as a Wife, Mother, Nana, Spiritual Mentor, Godmother, Auntie, Sister, Friend, and confidant. Her faith is unwavering, and she strives to be a shining light in a world that can often be dark.

Emily Minnoe, Francis House, Inc.

Emily Minnoe is the Development Specialist at Francis House, Inc. where she supports their fundraising initiatives through donor prospecting, data entry, social media marketing, and event assistance. Minnoe grew up outside of Buffalo, NY and received a bachelor’s degree in history from SUNY Brockport. She is passionate about community and finds joy in bringing folks together to support one another. She is a CenterState CEO Ambassador and volunteers her time as an Alzheimer’s Association Community Representative and Syracuse Stage Usher. She is a graduate of FOCUS’ Citizens Academy Winter 2024 cohort and joined the Citizens Academy Committee shortly after. She is a graduate of Leadership Greater Syracuse’s CNY Political Leadership Institute. Minnoe resides in the Town of Geddes with her family.

Matthew Oja, Esq., City of Syracuse

Since 2020, Matt Oja has served the public in the City of Syracuse’s Department of Assessment, most recently as Commissioner. He provides leadership and strategic direction in a department that is responsible for both the development and implementation of the City’s real property valuation strategy and general oversight of the City’s real estate portfolio. Among other responsibilities, this entails ongoing assessment of almost 42,000 parcels within the city of Syracuse in accordance with New York State law and market trends.

Donald Radke, (Immediate Past President), FM Realty Group

Don Radke is a seasoned real estate professional based in Fayetteville, New York, with nearly 40 years of experience in the industry. Recently retired from the City of Syracuse Landmark Preservation Board, he dedicated over 30 years to advocating for the preservation of the city’s architectural heritage. As the owner and broker of FM Realty Group, Radke is a licensed Real Estate Broker and certified New York State real estate instructor. He has held leadership positions, including president of the Greater Syracuse Association of Realtors and the George and Rebecca Barnes Foundation, and Vice President of the Central New York Information Service. In 2023, Radke received the Community Service Award from the New York State Association of Realtors for his contributions to community initiatives, including youth programs and preservation efforts. He played a vital role in securing funding for the renovation of the George and Rebecca Barnes Foundation mansion and has been instrumental in preserving numerous historic sites across Central New York. Radke remains a respected leader in both the real estate industry and in community engagement.

Rita L. Reicher, PhD, (President), KS&R co-founder

As acting Executive Director of FOCUS, Rita oversees the activities of the organization, including ensuring smooth operations of FOCUS’ Citizens Academy, FOCUS Forums, and Wisdom Keeper event; coordinating the committee efforts of the Board of Directors; recommending and managing the budget; and, together with others, seeking additional funding sources. Rita is a former Board Chair, President, and a founding principal of KS&R, a global provider of market research and consulting services headquartered in Syracuse. Prior to founding KS&R with five other Founders, Rita served as a Research Fellow with the Syracuse Research Corporation (1980-83) and in the Office of Federal and State Aid of the City of Syracuse (1977-80). She is a graduate of William Smith College and holds a Ph.D. in Economics from Yale University. Rita is active in the local nonprofit community. She serves as Chair of the SUNY Upstate Foundation and chairs the Finance Committee of All Saints Roman Catholic Church. Previously, she served on the Board of the Greater Syracuse Region of the American Heart Association, where she chaired their Community Action Committee. She has served as Chair of the Syracuse Chapter of the American Red Cross and was a Board member of the CNY Community Foundation.

Greg Riley, KeyBank

Greg Riley is a licensed branch manager at the Syracuse main office of KeyBank. After several years in the insurance industry with New York Life and Mass Mutual, he moved into banking. In 2014, he joined Citizens Bank and returned to Syracuse to join KeyBank as a licensed relationship manager in the Eastwood branch. In 2019, he was promoted to manager of the West Side Office and, more recently to manager of the main downtown Syracuse office.

Amy Rood, National Grid

Amy Rood is a Stakeholder Specialist at National Grid. She communicates with landowners, municipalities, and other interested parties about National Grid complex construction projects. Prior Rood worked with Honeywell on the Onondaga Lake Cleanup, providing the public with information about the project and serving as a docent at the Onondaga Lake Visitors Center. She is a returning FOCUS Greater Syracuse, Inc. Board Member and serves as Chair of the FOCUS Forum Committee. Rood is a life-long Syracuse resident and an active volunteer in the Eastwood Neighborhood Association. She earned her Master’s degree at Syracuse University’s S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications.

William Sanford, Brown & Sanford Consulting, LLC

William Sanford is a principal in Brown & Sanford Consultants LLC. He was a member of the Onondaga County Legislature from 1980 to 2002 and Chairman of the Legislature from 1988 to 2002. In 2002, he was elected to a term in the New York State Assembly. He is a veteran of the U.S. Army and the U.S. Army Reserve. Co-founder of the Syracuse Chargers rowing club, Bill coached Syracuse University rowers from 1963 to 2002. He is a Syracuse University Letter Winner of Distinction and is in the Syracuse Chargers Hall of Fame. Among other honors, he is a recipient of the Arthritis Foundation Leadership award, Syracuse University School of Education alum of the year award, and is a FOCUS Wisdom Keeper. In addition to the FOCUS Board, he has also served the Boards of Leadership Greater Syracuse, the National Kidney Foundation, chair of the Air One Helicopter Foundation, SARA Inc. Syracuse University crew alumni, and chief executive officer of the Government Relations Committee of the Syracuse Chargers. He is a past member of the board of AAA, Special Olympics, City County drug abuse commission, Rotary, Volunteer Center, YMCA, and Manlius Pebble Hill school. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree and a Master of Arts degree in education from Syracuse University. He and his wife, Nancy, have three daughters and six grandchildren.

Mike Stanton, formerly National Grid

Michael has stimulated important discussions while maintaining the PACNY list serve, engaging hundreds of preservationists, architects, planners, and the general public in historic preservation and urban issues. As a Board Member for PACNY, Mike also developed the Syracuse Then and Now website, which won a historic preservation award in 2004 from the Central New York Chapter of the American Institute of Architects. In 2010, he prepared nomination materials leading to the National Grid (Niagara Mohawk) Building being added to the National Register of Historic Places. A former producer of public affairs and documentary television programs, he has a B.A. from Gonzaga University and M.A. and Ph.D. degrees from the University of Washington. He has also been an outspoken neighborhood advocate as the longtime leader of the Southeast University Neighborhood Association. His contribution has been essential to the success of the local historic preservation movement over the past fifteen years.

Alicia Ernest

Executive Director

aernest@focussyracuse.org

315-448-8731