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OCLT Adds 16 Acres of Protected Land in Rockland County
The West Branch Conservation Association (WBCA), an all-volunteer conservation organization based in Rockland County, has dissolved and transferred a portion of responsibilities and commitments to the Orange County Land Trust (OCLT), including two conserved properties in New City in the Town of Clarkstown.
The properties, known as the South Mountain and Crum Creek Preserves, comprise 16 acres of woodlands and streams in northern Rockland County, including the West Branch of the Hackensack River.
OCLT will continue to manage and steward the properties in perpetuity.
WBCA was founded in 1941 and was incorporated as a not-for-profit organization in 1971, to safeguard the western watershed of the Hackensack River in Rockland County. Since then, it expanded its work to protect land and historic places throughout Rockland County.
“We’re very proud of West Branch’s accomplishments,” said Terri Thal, WBCA Treasurer. “Especially since we’ve never had paid staff. All of our work has always been done by volunteers. In recent years, though, like many not-for-profit organizations, West Branch has found it difficult to undertake the kind of work it used to do with volunteers. We either had to embark on a huge fundraising effort and change the nature of the organization or find a larger one that would take over our mission. We’re thrilled that Orange County Land Trust was willing to come to Rockland.”
OCLT Executive Director Jim Delaune said, “We look forward to honoring West Branch Conservation Association’s legacy through the continued protection and stewardship of South Mountain and Crum Creek Preserves.”
This past fall, OCLT participated in a Hudson Estuary Trees for Tribs planting at South Mountain Preserve, resulting in the planting of 110 native trees and shrubs along a tributary of the Hackensack River to help restore the stream buffer and protect water quality.
OCLT is also in the process of creating an affiliate land trust, Hudson Delaware Land Conservancy, to advance land protection outside of Orange County, including Rockland County.
Montefiore Nyack Hospital Appoints Stacey Conklin as New Chief Nursing Officer
Montefiore Nyack Hospital has named Stacey Conklin, MSN, NI-BC, MHCDS, NE-BC, as Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer. With more than 25 years of experience in nursing administration and clinical practice across a variety of roles, Ms. Conklin will lead all nursing and patient care services, guiding staff to deliver the highest standard of care.
“Ms. Conklin brings expansive experience and expertise to our leadership team at Montefiore Nyack,” said Dr. Mark Geller, MD, FACR, president and CEO of Montefiore Nyack Hospital. “We are excited to see her continue to advance the hospital into our next chapter and provide the very best care for our community.”
Most recently, Conklin served as Chief Nursing Officer and Senior Vice President for Patient Care Services at Mt. Sinai South Nassau. Leading over 900 nurses in inpatient and ambulatory nursing in the 455-bed hospital, she was responsible for developing strategies to promote recruitment, retention, and recognition of excellence in nursing. In addition, she assisted in the planning, implementation, and evaluation of clinical programs and services, and identified areas for performance improvement. She also played a key role in preparing and participating in Joint Commission accreditation surveys.
“Montefiore Nyack Hospital has a reputation for providing an excellent patient-centered experience,” said Ms. Conklin. “I look forward to working with the exceptional nursing staff to continue to create this environment for every person who comes through our doors.”
Community Foundation Hosts Donor and Volunteer Appreciation Reception; Wynkoops Receive Karen Minogue Award for Distinguished Service
The Community Foundation of Orange, Sullivan and Rockland hosted its annual Donor and Volunteer Appreciation Reception at Resorts World Catskills, welcoming more than 100 donors, volunteers, and community leaders for an evening of recognition and gratitude.
The event honored individuals whose sustained commitment has strengthened the Foundation’s mission across Orange, Sullivan, and Rockland Counties. Volunteers celebrating 5, 10, 15, and 25 years of service were recognized for their leadership, generosity, and dedication to improving quality of life throughout the region.
A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Karen Minogue Award for Distinguished Service to Derrik and Allison Wynkoop. The award recognizes individuals whose philanthropy and volunteerism embody the enduring spirit of community leadership.
Elizabeth Rowley, CEO of the Community Foundation, was honored to present the award to the Wynkoops. In her remarks, Rowley acknowledged their steadfast commitment to service and their meaningful impact on the Hudson Valley. Derrik and Allison graciously accepted the award along with a commemorative watercolor painting depicting a mighty oak tree—symbolizing the continued growth and deep roots of the Community Foundation.
“The strength of our Foundation lies in the generosity and long-term commitment of our volunteers and donors,” said Rowley. “Derrik and Allison exemplify the spirit of service that helps our communities thrive.”
The Community Foundation continues to connect people who care about causes that matter, fostering philanthropy and strengthening the region for generations to come.
