Foundation Board Welcomes New Leadership and Honors Longstanding Service
The Montefiore Nyack Foundation recently hosted its Annual Business Meeting—the final Board meeting of the year—marking a moment of meaningful transition and celebration.
This year, we bid a heartfelt farewell to two esteemed members of our Board of Directors: Cynthia Branca, who served with dedication for eight years as Secretary, and Frank Borelli Jr., who delivered 12 years of steadfast leadership as Vice President. Their vision, guidance and passion for our mission made an indelible mark on the Foundation and touched countless lives through Montefiore Nyack Hospital.
Paul Adler, Esq., Chair of the Foundation Board, shared his gratitude, noting:
“Montefiore Nyack Foundation is fortunate to have such an extraordinary group of leaders who continue to give their time, talent and heart to advance our mission. We are deeply thankful to Cynthia and Frank for their years of service and are equally excited to welcome new voices who will carry this important work forward.”
In keeping with that spirit of renewal, we are pleased to announce the election of Cathy Shea as Vice President and Stephen Kasamis as Secretary. Both bring fresh energy, deep commitment and a shared belief in advancing our Hospital’s mission to provide exceptional care close to home.
The meeting also paid special tribute to Brigitte Simon, longtime President of the Montefiore Nyack Hospital Auxiliary and Gift Shop. Since 1986, Brigitte has given her time and heart to the Hospital, leading countless fundraising efforts — from Harvest Teas and Holiday Celebrations to managing the Thrift Shop until its closing in 2021.
While the Auxiliary officially disbanded this year, its legacy is nothing short of extraordinary. Founded in 1895, the same year the Hospital opened its doors, the Montefiore Nyack Hospital Auxiliary supported generations of patients, families and staff. Since the Foundation’s recordkeeping began in 1982, the Auxiliary has raised more than $5 million to support programs, medical equipment and capital projects — and surely much more in the decades prior.
Mark E. Geller, MD, President & CEO of Montefiore Nyack Hospital, offered words of thanks:
“For nearly four decades, Brigitte’s leadership and love for this Hospital uplifted our patients, families and staff. Her dedication to the Auxiliary and Gift Shop helped make vital programs and improvements possible. On behalf of our entire Montefiore Nyack community, thank you, Brigitte, for your unwavering service and the many lives you’ve touched.”
Though the Auxiliary’s chapter has closed, Brigitte’s connection to Montefiore Nyack continues — you can still find her volunteering in the Gift Shop one day each week, greeting patients and visitors with her signature warmth and grace.
As we look ahead to a new year of growth and giving, the Foundation remains deeply grateful to all who have served, past and present, for helping build a healthier, stronger community for all.
