David Brownstein

New Paltz–based nonprofit leader and strategist, David co-founded Wild Earth, growing it into a major regional outdoor education organization. Now Director of Strategy & Development at New Paltz Rescue Squad, he advises mission-driven leaders through Root Connections, advancing community resilience, youth development, and a more connected Hudson Valley.

Anna Conlan

Hudson Valley–based curator and director of the Samuel Dorsky Museum of Art at SUNY New Paltz, Anna brings over 20 years of experience in museums and academia. Her work centers on contemporary and historically engaged exhibitions, advancing access to art and culture in the region.

Mark Fuerst

Rhinebeck-based media innovator and founder of Innovation4Media, Mark has shaped public media strategy nationwide. A former WXPN General Manager and World Café producer, he now leads Hudson Valley Pilot, supporting local journalism and sustainable nonprofit media models critical to regional cultural ecosystems.

Jess Gerrior

Hudson Valley nonprofit consultant, grant writer, and environmental educator, Jess combines research, storytelling, and food systems work to strengthen community connections. With a PhD in Environmental Studies, she supports mission-driven organizations and brings a deep commitment to local culture, resilience, and creative expression.

Nicole Goldberg

Saugerties-based arts leader and Executive Director of the Woodstock Artists Association & Museum, Nicole has over 25 years in nonprofit arts development. Her career spans major institutions and regional organizations, advancing artist support, cultural access, and sustainable arts infrastructure in the Hudson Valley.

Zach Jones

Kingston-based founder of Our Elements Outdoor Learning, Zach leads nature-based education programs that connect youth, families, and communities to the natural world. His work centers environmental literacy, inclusivity, and community-building, strengthening relationships between people, place, and shared cultural values.

Adam Kushner

Architect and designer splitting time between NYC and Kerhonkson, Adam leads KUSHNER studios and ventures in construction innovation. His work spans sustainable design and emerging technologies, contributing to the built environment while maintaining strong ties to the Hudson Valley community.

Jordan Koschei

Hudson Valley–based founder of ConnectHV, Jordan builds community among local creatives, professionals, and small businesses through events and digital platforms. A product designer and engineer, he fosters collaboration and visibility across the region’s cultural and entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Dirk Liedig

High Falls–based entrepreneur and founder of Neuland, a social club for creatives centered on reciprocity and connection. Former co-founder of LifeLabs Learning, Dirk focuses on community-building, creativity, and experiential spaces that strengthen collaboration and cultural vitality in the Hudson Valley.

Carrie Molay

Hudson Valley native and media-tech executive, Carrie is Chief Operating Officer at Optimera. With deep ties to Chronogram, she brings expertise in strategy and innovation, alongside a commitment to local food systems, sustainable communities, and the long-term vitality of regional media.

Jim Metzner

Award-winning audio producer and longtime Hudson Valley resident, Jim is creator of Pulse of the Planet and founder of American Soundscape. His work preserves and celebrates cultural and environmental sound, contributing to public media and expanding access to storytelling rooted in place.

Emma Murphy

Hudson Valley–raised writer and nonprofit consultant, Emma holds a Creative Writing degree from SUNY New Paltz. Her work centers storytelling, mental health, and community connection, supporting organizations and individuals in exploring identity, creativity, and the shared human experience.

Karali Pitzele

New Paltz–based leadership coach and consultant, Karali supports organizations navigating change across sectors. With roots in education reform and national leadership development, she partners with purpose-driven teams to build culture, clarity, and systems that foster sustainable impact in the Hudson Valley and beyond.

Amy Poux

Kingston-based arts educator and Executive Director of the Arts Society of Kingston, Amy has led youth arts and workforce programs for over 20 years. Founder of Youth Ensemble Theater, she expands access to creative expression and career pathways in the Hudson Valley arts community.

Ellen Rocco

Longtime public media leader, Ellen led North Country Public Radio for four decades, building a nationally recognized regional network. Now based in upstate New York, she remains active in community and cultural organizations, bringing deep experience in nonprofit leadership and public service media.