Syracuse, NY - April 2025
On Point for College announced the recent addition of eight new members to its Board of Directors, making it 21 members strong.
“On Point is excited to welcome these recent additions to our board and the fresh perspectives and expertise they bring to our organization as we work to address our community’s workforce needs,” said On Point Executive Director Samuel Rowser. “Over the last twenty-five years, On Point has assisted thousands by eliminating obstacles on their journey to post-secondary education and successful careers. Our board has always played a critical role in helping us achieve our mission, and we look forward to the contributions of these new members.”
- Austin French is Assistant Vice President of Commercial Banking for NBT Bank. A graduate of Leadership Greater Syracuse, Austin has been affiliated with On Point since 2021 and said, “I’m excited to work more closely with On Point. Supporting young people as they navigate college, job placement, and the early stages of their careers is a cause that’s deeply meaningful to me.”
- Matthew Funiciello is a real estate salesperson with JF Real Estate. Matt has been involved with On Point since 2019, when he began hosting free summer tennis clinics for On Point students. “I’m grateful to be part of On Point because it connects me with others who share my passion for education and social impact. Together, we are making a real difference for the families in our community who rely on On Point’s support."
- Keeley Hines, CPA is an Assurance Partner at The Bonadio Group, specializing in the public sector and not-for-profit industry. Keeley has experience with staff development, policy review, data analysis, and strategic planning and is a technical expert in auditing and financial reporting. She brings this experience to her role as On Point Board Treasurer. “Education and proper training are the cornerstones for all success. Our social responsibility is to provide individuals with the tools to grow and develop to their greatest potential while doing something they enjoy and can be proud of – something On Point helps make possible.”
- Michelle Kosinski, CPA is the Vice President of Finance and Administration for Housing Visions. Michelle’s professional experience includes budgeting and financial forecasting, staff supervision, overseeing all internal and external financial reporting, and data analysis. Michelle has served the local community by sitting on numerous boards and has coordinated volunteer opportunities in the Syracuse area. Michelle said, “Reflecting on my education and mentors, I know I wouldn’t be where I am without them. The services and opportunities that On Point provides are essential for this community, and I’m excited to be a part of such a great cause.”
- Karen Morrissey is Vice President of Human Resources and Community Relations for SRC, Inc. Prior to joining SRC, Karen worked as Associate Vice President of Human Resources at Syracuse University. Karen said, “Having worked in higher education for almost 20 years, I recognize many young people’s barriers, particularly first-generation college students. On Point’s long-standing commitment to helping students not only get into college but also ensure they have the support they need to succeed and thrive in college and beyond is inspiring.”
- Kevin Pole is a Member with the law firm of Bond, Schoeneck, and King. Kevin first learned about On Point through Leadership Greater Syracuse. He has served as Vice Chair of the Board for Francis House, and he currently serves as a board member for Jamesville-DeWitt Little League. Kevin said, “I believe education is the key to success, and On Point’s mission of empowering students to overcome the barriers to post-secondary education perfectly aligns with that vision.”
- Dr. Robert Simmons, III is Vice President of US Social Impact and Community Engagement and Executive Director for National Grid Foundation. He first worked with On Point in his previous role as a leader of social impact and philanthropy at Micron Technology. He said, “I am particularly inspired by On Point's commitment to comprehensive support—from college preparation to career readiness. I see this as an opportunity not only to give back to the community but also to be part of a collective effort that drives real change in the lives of young people.”
- John H. Watt, Jr. is the former President and Chief Executive Officer of NBT Bancorp Inc., and he currently serves as Vice Chairman on NBT’s Board of Directors. A past President of the On Point Board of Directors, John has returned to continue his commitment to the organization’s mission. John said, “On Point’s mission has always inspired me. I am honored to serve on this board once again and be a part of the life changing and community building work of this organization.”
About On Point for College
On Point for College is a 501(c)(3) with offices in Syracuse and Utica, serving Onondaga, Oneida, Oswego, Cayuga, Madison, and Herkimer counties. Since 1999, more than 4,600 On Point students have earned more than 6,000 degrees. On Point continues to serve the community by assisting 3,500 Central New York students each year in pursuing post-secondary educational opportunities and meaningful career pathways.
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