Debbie McGinness

Chief Executive Officer

I started my career as a pediatric RN in the late 1970’s. In the mid 1980’s my eyes were opened to the field of developmental disabilities and it stole my heart. I was working as a Regional Director for a NYC health care firm and convinced the President to expand our services to support people within the OPWDD service sector. In 1990 I left to start and lead a staffing agency to recruit, train and place per diem direct support professionals (DSPs) in voluntary provider agency settings throughout the metropolitan area (we provided thousands of staff to hundreds of programs over a 31 year period). In 1995 I started, and for eleven years led, a licensed home care services agency (LHCSA) to provide Personal Care Aid (PCA), Home Health Aid (HHA) and nursing supports to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) as well as people with medical complexities. In 2010, my husband and I started and led Select Human Services, Inc. (a non-profit OPWDD provider agency). We grew a team of seven staff serving 60 people through a variety of OPWDD community supports and services to a team of 400+ staff supporting 500+ people throughout Westchester, Rockland and Putnam Counties. During those years I completed my MSN degree and was fortunate to maintain my hands-on nursing skills through consulting positions with I/DD organizations.

In 2017, New Hope Community entered my life and my world forever changed. I became the CEO here in 2018 and welcomed Select Human Services into the New Hope family as a division, in January 2020. From the start it has been a privilege and pleasure to be part of such a wonderful organization. I am committed to our mission and actively participate in professional and community organizations, committees, events and activities that fuel the advancement of meaningful lives for people with I/DD. Bottom line, New Hope Community’s purpose is important and everything we can do and say to share a life-changing message – matters!

845-241-2828

dmcginness@newhopecommunity.org

Karen Russell, CHC, MSW,MJ

Chief Operating Officer

I began my career at New Hope Community in December of 1995 as a Service Coordinator.  It was then that I knew this organization was special in the way we provided supports to people with disabilities.  Over the next 26 years, I have been a part of New Hope Community’s growth and held multiple positions within the leadership team.  Just prior to being appointed Chief Operating Officer in January 2021, I held the position of Vice President of Clinical and Regulatory Operations. My extensive career has given me the opportunity to work collaboratively with all departments and disciplines, while never forgetting my early days as a direct care staff.

In my current role as Chief Operating Officer, I am responsible for both strategy and financial viability, working in partnership with key leaders at NHC.  Along with key staff, and in conjunction with the CEO, I represent and support our mission and impact through engagement with internal and external stakeholder groups – locally, regionally, statewide and beyond.

I enjoy being actively involved in my community. I presently serve on the Sullivan County 180 Advisory Board and am a member of Sullivan County Community Services Board, appointed by the Legislature.  I am the former Chair of the Sullivan County Chamber of Commerce Foundation Board and also serve on numerous industry boards and committees.

I reside in Bethel, NY with my husband and our three daughters. I hold a Master of Jurisprudence in Health Law and a Master of Social Work degree as well as a Certification in Healthcare Compliance (CHC) from the Health Care Compliance Association.   I am a graduate of both the Leadership Sullivan Program and the National Leadership Institute on Developmental Disabilities and was recognized as a Professional Woman in Business by the Sullivan County Democrat in 2013.  I was also honored with the New Hope Community Deirdre McCoy Award for Excellence.

845-241-2838

krussell@newhopecommunity.org

Tariq Iqbal

Chief Financial & Administrative Officer

I currently serve as the Chief Financial and Administrative Officer and oversee the Finance, Maintenance and IT Departments. I started my career at New Hope in 2006 as a Comptroller and was promoted to Chief Financial and Administrative Officer in 2010. Prior to joining New Hope Community, I worked in the finance department in varying roles at several for-profit companies.

At New Hope Community I am responsible for planning, implementing, managing and controlling all financial-related activities of the agency. This includes direct responsibility for accounting, finance, forecasting, facilities, capital improvements and renovations. My career focus has always been ensuring the financial success of the organization that I’m a part of.

845-241-2848

tiqbal@newhopecommunity.org

Pierre Burnett

Senior Director, Information Technology & Security

I joined New Hope Community in 2021 as the Director of Information Technology. I currently serve as the Senior Director of Information Technology & Security for New Hope Community and our division, Select Human Services. I lead the vision, development, and implementation of all aspects of IT and digital security, ensuring that our technology strategy aligns with the organization’s overall mission and goals.

With 20 years of experience in information technology, my career began as a Network Engineer in the U.S. Army. Since then, I’ve held various roles that allowed me to utilize my skills and passion for technology. Notably, I was part of the LEGOLAND New York project team, where I played a pivotal role in building the IT infrastructure. My diverse background has equipped me with the skills and knowledge to drive technological innovation and efficiency.

I studied Computer Information Systems at SUNY Empire and Computer Network Switching Systems at the U.S. Army Signal School at Fort Gordon, Georgia. I also completed my MCSA certification in Windows Server Administration.

845-241-2822

pburnett@newhopecommunity.org

Terence J Duncan, LMSW

Senior Director of Program Operations

I have over 25 years of experience in the field of Intellectual Disabilities, dedicating my career to serving others. Throughout this time, I have held various executive roles within multiple private non-profit organizations. For the past 12 years, I have been part of New Hope Community, where I have contributed to diverse areas of our operations. My responsibilities have included overseeing Medicaid Service Coordination, Day Habilitation, Supportive Employment, and Residential Services. Currently, I manage the transitional operations related to residential movement and admissions, both internally and externally. Additionally, I continue to oversee Supportive Employment and Day Habilitation programs, along with coordinating various recreational activities in Arts, Music, Athletics, Equestrian, and Horticulture. As the Senior Director of Program Operations, I ensure that there is a seamless interdepartmental continuity of care to support all individuals served by New Hope Community and those interested in our services.

I am a New York State Licensed Master Social Worker with an extensive professional network across New York. Throughout my career, I have collaborated on numerous projects with respected programs and colleagues, including CQL Certifications, and have presented multiple times at the Annual New York Alliance Conference.

Before joining New Hope Community, I held several significant positions in the service sector, including Senior Supervisor at YAI in New York City. In that role, I oversaw leadership training and sexuality education and served as the liaison for the YAI self-advocacy association on Long Island. I earned both a Bachelor of Social Work degree and a Master in Social Work from Adelphi University in Garden City, NY.

845-241-2765

tduncan@newhopecommunity.org

Jacquie Leventoff

Senior Director of Human Resources

I joined New Hope Community as the Senior Director of Human Resources in October 2024. Prior to this full-time position, I spent one year as a consultant for the organization. Currently, I lead the Human Resources team, focusing on creating a supportive and rewarding work environment for all employees, with particular emphasis on recruitment strategies and retention programs. My extensive experience of over 20 years in team building, partnership development, and employee engagement enhances my ability to contribute to strategic planning, talent development, and policy formulation within the HR function.

A lifelong resident of the Town of Fallsburg, I actively engage with various nonprofit organizations and hold positions on several local boards during my leisure time.

I am an alumnus of Binghamton University and participated in the University of Delaware’s six-year Non-profit Organizational Management program. Additionally, I earned my Senior Professional in Human Resources certification in 2004.

845.241.2829

jleventoff@newhopecommunity.org

Kristen Pignatelli-Bozenski

Senior Director of Compliance & Quality Improvement

I joined New Hope Community in February of 2018 as the Coordinator of Corporate Compliance and Quality Improvement. In November 2020 I was promoted to Director of Corporate Compliance and Quality Improvement and most recently promoted to Senior Director. I started in the Human Service field in 2006 as a direct support staff for children with autism and have held various positions over the course of my career. I knew from early on, that my passion was compliance and at NHC it is my responsibility to ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements. I am privileged to oversee a department of professionals who are dedicated to the organization’s mission and I am honored and proud to be a part of the New Hope team! I earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Mount Saint Mary College in Newburgh, NY and continue to expand my education in the field through participation in regional networks and committees. In 2020 I graduated from the Leadership Sullivan Program and was the recipient of the New Hope Community Hope Heart award. I was recognized as a Professional Woman in Business by the Sullivan County Democrat in 2021.

845-241-2801

kpignatelli@newhopecommunity.org

Amy Cavaliere, LCSW

Director of Behavioral Services

I joined New Hope Community in April of 2023 as the Director of Behavioral Services.  In my role, I provide oversight and supervision to our team of clinicians and work closely with all programs to provide behavioral support to the individuals at New Hope Community.

I have a strong background in behavioral health services, human services, and the field of intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), previously working at Springbrook in Oneonta, NY for 18 years in their residential school program.  Prior to joining New Hope Community, I progressed through several positions at Garnet Health Medical Center including psychiatric social worker, clinical manager, and director of operations for behavioral health.

I earned my Associate degree in Human Services from Herkimer County Community College, in Herkimer, NY, my Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology with a minor in Sociology from Pennsylvania State University in University Park, PA, and a Master of Social Work Degree from Rutgers University in New Brunswick, NJ. I also earned a DSP Certification from SUNY Morrisville, in Morrisville, NY, and hold a certificate in violence against women and children from Rutgers University. I am currently licensed in the State of New York in social work.

When I’m not working, I spend time with family and teach high school students color guard and marching band.

845-241-2756

acavaliere@newhopecommunity.org

Alasana Dumbuya

Director of Residential Services

I joined New Hope Community in 2014 as a Residential Coordinator (RC) overseeing Residential Alternative homes (IRAs) and transitioned to oversight of our Intermediate Care Facilities (ICFs) in 2016. In both roles I ensured all people, choosing to call New Hope Community home, were holistically supported in achieving their individual goals. In 2017 I was promoted to Senior RC and was responsible for the training, development, and oversight of New Hope Community RC staff. In 2022 I was promoted to Director of Residential Services. Currently, I work closely with all RCs and House Managers that oversee our 40 residential programs to ensure optimal safety, health and quality of life are realized by all those we support.

I began my career as a nurse in The Gambia, West Africa. In 2000 I moved to the United States and in 2001 joined a Sullivan County OPWDD provider organization as an Advocate 1.  For the next 13 years, I held several positions including Advocate 2, Assistant House Manager, House Manager and Residential Coordinator; experiences that prepared me well for my move to New Hope Community in 2014.

845-241-2763

adumbuya@newhopecommunity.org

Donna Fischer

Director of Marketing and Communications

In 2016 I joined New Hope Community as the Marketing and Communications Manager. In 2019, I was promoted to Director of Marketing & Communications. In my role, I supervise our talented marketing team and am responsible for providing strategic direction and oversight for all communications, relationships and community outreach initiatives to advance New Hope’s mission and vision.
I began my career at Bozell, a top ten advertising agency located in NYC, and have continued to work in the marketing and communications field ever since. I’ve worked for international, national and non-profit organizations, including OSRAM Sylvania, Magnivision and Hudson Valley Economic Development.
I received a Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing with concentrations in Finance and Management from Bentley University in Waltham, MA. I am also a graduate of the Pattern for Progress Fellows Program and was recognized as a Professional Woman in Business by the Sullivan County Democrat in 2018.

2845-241-2770

dfischer@newhopecommunity.org

Amy LeRoy

Director of Staff Training & Advocacy

I began my career at New Hope Community in 2008 as a Medicaid Service Coordinator. For more than 20 years in this field, the majority of my time has been focused on being an advocate; ensuring those with I/DD are living and experiencing their life in a way that is defined by them. Currently, I serve as the Director of Staff Training and Development, which allows for the transition of my advocacy efforts to be focused on New Hope’s amazing staff, who are the foundation, backbone and lifeblood of this organization. Providing staff with tools, resources and knowledge not only develops a competent workforce, but also provides those we support with staff that are ready and capable of exemplifying our mission statement. Since 2014 I’ve led our partnership and accreditation with the Council on Quality and Leadership (CQL). Through this partnership, we continue to hold ourselves accountable to our mission. I hold a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and Criminal Justice from the University of Miami in Coral Gables, Florida as well as a Masters in English from Stetson University in DeLand, Florida. I am also a proud graduate of the Leadership Sullivan Program and recipient of the 2020 New Hope Community Deirdre McCoy Award for Excellence.

845-241-2785

aleroy@newhopecommunity.org

Janae Myers

Director of Development

I joined New Hope Community as the Director of Development in June 2024. Here, it is my mission to fund initiatives that promote independence, choice, and new opportunities for people with intellectual and other developmental disabilities. I am focused on fostering meaningful relationships, cultivating individual fundraising, and securing grant funding to expand our community impact. These resources are vital in empowering our community and advancing our commitment to creating a supportive and accessible environment for all.

My unwavering commitment to serving people and advocating for an equitable and accessible future drives my passionate approach to my work. My academic foundation, a Master’s Degree in Integrated Marketing and Communication and a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Public Relations from Marist College, underpins my strategic approach.

Following a career in law enforcement, I dedicated over a decade to mastering strategic planning, business development, and integrated marketing. This experience paved the way for my role as Chief Advancement Officer at Independent Living, Inc. and Independent Home Care, Inc., where I built a robust marketing and development department and spearheaded strategic growth strategies that significantly enhanced donor engagement, corporate partnerships, and programmatic development.

Joining New Hope Community marked a pivotal moment in my career. As the Director of Development, I immerse myself daily in efforts to enrich the lives of the individuals we support and our larger community. New Hope Community feels like a calling, and every day since has been a rewarding opportunity to advocate for an accessible and equitable world. It’s a privilege to contribute to an organization where every initiative and partnership is a step towards meaningful impact.

845-241-2845

jmyers@newhopecommunity.org

Brian McPhillips

Director of Facilities

I joined New Hope Community in August 2015 as the Facilities Manager and was promoted to Director of Facilities in January 2025. Between previous employment as a Support Services Manager and other current personal endeavors as a realtor and Sullivan County District 3 Legislator, my life has been dedicated to the support and service of others. These traits are what drive me daily to provide the best levels of comfort and opportunities for the people we support. The maintenance team is a group of people who love to serve at the pleasure of the people we support and I am honored to lead them. I have been married to my beautiful wife Jennifer for 12 years and I have three gorgeous daughters Kristen, Emily and Keira. I have been a lifelong resident of Liberty and just recently finished construction of our house on a lot next to my childhood home. In 2003, I graduated from Mount Saint Mary College in Newburgh, NY earning a Bachelor of Arts degree with honors in History Political Science and Business Management and Administration.

845-241-2791

bmcphillips@newhopecommunity.org

Carl Santos

Director of Program Services

I joined the New Hope Community team in July of 2000. For the past 21 years I have assisted people with developmental disabilities obtain employment. During my tenure at New Hope, I have worked as an Employment Specialist, Employment Specialist Coordinator and Director of Community Development. I am a Board Member for Sullivan County Chamber of Commerce and Chamber Foundation. I was the Vice-Chair of Marketing for the Non-Profit Leadership Summit Committee 2011-2013 and a core member of the Young Emerging Leaders Committee of the Sullivan County Chamber. I graduated from Leadership Sullivan Program in 2006 and the Fordham Center for Non-Profit Leaders Program in 2011. It is truly a privilege to work for New Hope Community.

845-241-2810

csantos@newhopecommunity.org

Nadia Smith, CPA, CFE

Director of Financial Operations

I started my career at New Hope Community in November 2014 and currently serve as the Director of Financial Operations. I work closely with the Chief Financial and Administrative Officer (CFAO) and Comptroller to oversee all aspects of the Finance Department. In my role, I navigate complex regulatory compliance requirements within the developmental disabilities field, manage financial reporting and audits, and provide technical accounting guidance.

I hold a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from SUNY New Paltz, where I graduated summa cum laude. Additionally, I am a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE).

Before joining New Hope Community, I held key finance positions in for-profit, not-for-profit and publicly traded companies, gaining valuable experience in financial reporting, audit leadership, and compliance across both public and private sectors. I am a passionate advocate for professional development, from cross-training team members to leading initiatives aimed at automating processes for greater efficiency.

It is an honor to be part of an organization that empowers individuals with developmental disabilities, where our work has a lasting and meaningful impact on their lives.

845.241.2816

nsmith@newhopecommunity.org