Executive Board
Past President
Katie La Vecchio (she/her)
Area Coordinator
University at Buffalo
108 Lehman Hall, Buffalo, NY 14260
(716) 645-2135
presidents@cspanys.org | klavecch@buffalo.edu
Katie La Vecchio is currently an Area Coordinator for Governors Complex at University at Buffalo in Residential Life. Katie has worked previously as Complex Director in Residence Life at SUNY Buffalo State College and Assistant Director of Alumni Relations at Adelphi University. Katie is a dual alumna of SUNY Buffalo State obtaining a B.S. in Childhood Education and Reading in 2012 and an M.S. in Higher Education and Student Affairs Administration in 2014. Since returning to student affairs in 2018, Katie has been involved with CSPA-NYS and has held various roles such as Silent Auction Committee Chair, Virtual Conference Committee, VP of Membership, and most recently serving as the 2023 Annual Conference Chair. Her personal interests include bargain shopping (She loves a good deal!), and spending time with her son, Joey, and husband, Mike.
President
Courtney Owen (she/her)
Director of Housing and Residence Life
SUNY Monroe Community College
West Canal Hall
Brighton Campus
585-292-3009
presidents@cspanys.org | cowen7@monroecc.edu
Courtney L. Owen is currently the Director of Housing & Residence Life at SUNY Monroe Community College in Rochester, NY. Courtney has worked previously at SUNY Finger Lakes Community College, Pratt Munson-Williams-Proctor College of Art & Design, Siena College, and SUNY Geneseo. Courtney has a B.S. in Childhood Education & Special Education, a B.A. in History, and a M.S.Ed in Reading & Literacy from SUNY Geneseo. Courtney has been involved with CSPA-NYS since her first conference in 2014. Courtney has been on the Conference Planning Committee for CSPA-NYS since 2017 and has been a member of the Executive Board since 2019 as a Member-at-Large, VP for Membership, and Annual Conference Co-Chair. Her personal interests include antiquing, baking, reading, traveling to visit friends and family, and spending time with her dog, Taco, and partner, Alexander.
President Elect
DJ Schier (he/him)
Dean of Students
Villa Maria College
240 Pine Ridge Road, Buffalo, NY 14225
716-961-1878
presidents@cspanys.org | dschier@villa.edu
DJ Schier is currently the Dean of Students at Villa Maria College in Buffalo, NY. Previously, DJ has worked as the Director of Student Affairs and the Director of Student Life at Villa Maria College, the Director of People and Operations at City Year Buffalo, and as Student Life Technical Assistant at Niagara County Community College. DJ earned a M.S. in Higher Education and Student Affairs Administration from SUNY Buffalo State in 2013 and a B.S. in Communications and Public Relations from SUNY Fredonia in 2011. DJ has been an active member of CSPA-NYS since 2012 and previously served as the Vice President for Membership and Vice President for Educational and Strategic Relationships on the Executive Board for 6 years. In his free time, DJ enjoys spending time with his family, friends, and playing with his 2 cats and his dog. He also enjoys relaxing with a good video game, especially JRPG's and the Final Fantasy series.
Vice President for Professional Development
Brittany Profit-Rheinwald
Director of Higher Education Administration
SUNY Brockport
350 New Campus Drive, Brockport, NY 14420
585- 395-5724
prodev@cspanys.org | bprofitr@brockport.edu
Brittany Profit-Rheinwald, Ed.D., is an Assistant Professor and Director of the Higher Education Administration program at SUNY Brockport. Deeply committed to advocacy and community engagement, Brittany is actively involved in United University Professions (UUP), serving as Vice President for Professional Staff on her campus, a Regional Membership Specialist statewide, and Chair of both the Veterans and Scholarship Development committees. She is also one of co-founders and Board President of the Brockport Community Connection, a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to linking Village of Brockport residents in need with local resources and services. Brittany earned her Doctor of Education in Learning and Organizational Change from Baylor University. Her research interests include basic needs insecurity, building community in online learning environments, and leadership development. She resides in Brockport with her husband, Geremy, and their two Labrador Retrievers, Cooper and Tucker.
Joshua M. Fegley
Instructor & Doctor of Education (EdD) in Educational Leadership Program
SUNY Brockport
350 New Campus Drive, Brockport, NY 14420
prodev@cspanys.org | jfegley@brockport.edu
Josh Fegley, EdD joined the EdD in Educational Leadership program at SUNY Brockport as a full-time faculty member in 2025. Previously, he spent 12 years in Brockport’s Department of Public Health and Health Education and served in several student affairs and prevention roles at the University from 2004 to 2013. His work focuses on leadership development, college student development, assessment and evaluation, prevention education, student basic needs, and crisis communication. Josh has also led grant-funded projects supported by the U.S. Department of Education, the Avon Foundation for Women, the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), and New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports. He lives in Brockport with his partner, Ryan, and enjoys hiking, road trips, amusement parks, drive-in movies, and a challenging mini golf course.
Vice President for Communications
Samantha Maniscola
Residence Hall Director
University at Buffalo
125 Lee Road, Buffalo, NY 14261
716-645-5542
communication@cspanys.org | smanisco@buffalo.edu
Sam (she/her) is an emerging Student Affairs professional with a passion for accessibility, sense of belonging, first-gen support, LGBTQ+ advocacy, and more! She has an educational background in Human Services, Sociology and Higher Education and has gained practical experience in various roles in Student Affairs including Residential Life and Student Wellness. She currently serves as a Residence Hall Director at the University at Buffalo, where she supports 800 first-year students and supervises 24 Resident Assistants and 2 Graduate Assistants.
Vice President for Communications Elect
Vivian Evans (she/her)
Residence Hall Director
SUNY Oswego
7060 State Route 104, Oswego, NY 13126
315-312-4913
communication@cspanys.org | vivian.evans@oswego.edu
Vivian Evans currently works at SUNY Oswego as a Residence Hall Director for the Residence Life and Housing office. Since starting at SUNY Oswego, she has been a member of the conduct hearing board, worked on an institutional committee developing institutional goals and action plans, and worked as the Summer Housing Conference Coordinator for 2 summers. While originally being from Florida, she graduated with her Bachelor's in Social Work from Stony Brook University, where she worked as an RA for 3 years and a Housing Administration and Conference Student Assistant for 2 years in the Campus Residences office. During her Senior year, she was part of the Division of Student Affairs Fellowship, where she worked in various Student Affairs departments through a rotation with her peers. She will be graduating with her Master's in Higher Education Administration this upcoming May from Stony Brook University and aims to create an inclusive environment where students and professionals can thrive and grow.
Vice President for Membership
Cody Crippen
Coordinator Residence Life and Retention
SUNY Corning
1 Academic Drive Corning NY, 14830
607-962-9135
membership@cspanys.org | ccrippe1@corning-cc.edu
Cody Crippen is the Coordinator of Residence Life and Retention at SUNY Corning Community College, where he leads initiatives to enhance student engagement, support academic success, and foster an inclusive residential community. In his role, Cody oversees all aspects of campus housing and retention programming, working closely with students and campus stakeholders to create a meaningful living-learning environment.
Prior to his time working in Higher Education, Cody gained valuable experience at Walt Disney World starting with the Disney College Program and then staying three additional years as a full time Cast Member, where he developed strong skills in guest services, team collaboration, and leadership. This experience continues to inform his student-centered approach in higher education.
Cody holds a Master of Science in Education in College Student Development and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, both from Alfred University. He also earned an Associate of Applied Science in Business Administration from SUNY Corning Community College.
Vice President for Membership Elect
Deanna Souchet-Soto (she, her, ella)
Residence Hall Director
Niagra University
O’Shea Hall, 5795 Lewiston Rd, Niagra University, NY, 14109
716-286-8566
membership@cspanys.org | deannas@niagara.edu
Deanna Souchet-Soto is currently the Residence Director for Seton Hall at Niagara University. She was formerly an Assistant Hall Director for Red Jacket Quadrangle at SUNY University at Buffalo in Residential Life. Deanna completed her M.A. in Communication also at SUNY University at Buffalo. Deanna is an alumna of SUNY Buffalo State University obtaining her B.A. in Public Relations & Advertising with a Certificate in Sports Communication where she served four years as a Resident Assistant. Deanna found her passion in student affairs through her various student assistant roles in student conduct & alumni affairs along with her time as an RA at SUNY Buffalo State. This is Deanna's first position with CSPA-NYS and first professional role. Her personal interests include reading fantasy/romance (big Fourth Wing & Rebecca Yarros fan), going back home to her hometown of Brooklyn, and watching women's sports.
Vice President for Educational and Strategic Relationships
Allecia Spencer
Assistant Director of Campus Activities
Cornell University
527 Willard Straight Hall, Ithaca, NY 14853
607-254-8598
educationalpartners@cspanys.org | as4537@cornell.edu
Allecia is a dedicated higher education professional with a background in Psychology and a master’s degree in Higher Educational Management from the University of the West Indies, Mona in Kingston, Jamaica. She currently works as an Assistant Director in Campus Activities at Cornell University, where she focuses on helping student leaders develop meaningful, sustainable organizations that foster belonging and engagement across campus. Since starting her career in 2020, Allecia has been passionate about helping students succeed and building strong connections between people and programs. She believes that meaningful partnerships and collaboration are key to creating lasting change. Outside of work, she enjoys cooking, visiting museums, going to the beach, and practicing yoga. As the VP Elect for Educational and Strategic Partnerships Allecia is excited to support the growth of the organization and help strengthen educational and community partnerships that make a real difference in professional’s lives.
VP for Educational and Strategic Relationships Elect
Katie La Vecchio (she/her)
Area Coordinator
University at Buffalo
108 Lehman Hall, Buffalo, NY 14260
(716) 645-2135
educationalpartners@cspanys.org | klavecch@buffalo.edu
Katie La Vecchio is currently an Area Coordinator for Governors Complex at University at Buffalo in Residential Life. Katie has worked previously as Complex Director in Residence Life at SUNY Buffalo State College and Assistant Director of Alumni Relations at Adelphi University. Katie is a dual alumna of SUNY Buffalo State obtaining a B.S. in Childhood Education and Reading in 2012 and an M.S. in Higher Education and Student Affairs Administration in 2014. Since returning to student affairs in 2018, Katie has been involved with CSPA-NYS and has held various roles such as Silent Auction Committee Chair, Virtual Conference Committee, VP of Membership, and most recently serving as the 2023 Annual Conference Chair. Her personal interests include bargain shopping (She loves a good deal!), and spending time with her son, Joey, and husband, Mike.
2026 Annual Conference Chair
Leah DeGraw
Associate Director of Campus Life
Keuka College
141 Central Avenue, Keuka Park, NY 14478
(315) 279-5382
annualconferencechair@cspanys.org | ldegraw@keuka.edu
Leah DeGraw is a dynamic and dedicated student affairs professional serving as the Assistant Director of Campus Life at Keuka College. She is committed to excellence, collaboration, and inclusive community-building through purposeful programming and proactive leadership. Currently pursuing her Master of Science in Management at Keuka College (Class of 2026), Leah builds on a foundation in communication and public relations from SUNY Fredonia. She leads with empathy and integrity, emphasizing teamwork, open feedback, and continuous growth.
2027 Annual Conference Chair
This could be you!
TBD
TBD
annualconferencechair@cspanys.org | TBD
This could be you!
Member at Large | Communications
Nicholas Winegard
Residence Hall Director
University at Buffalo
A102 Greiner Hall, Buffalo, NY 14261
716-645-8882
mal@cspanys.org | nwinegar@buffalo.edu
Nicholas Winegard currently serves as the Residence Hall Director for Greiner Hall at the University at Buffalo, New York State’s Flagship Public Institution, within Residential Life. He previously has experience working full-time at SUNY Oswego, as a graduate assistant at the University at Buffalo, and at Kansas State University. Nicholas holds a MEd in Higher Education and Student Affairs Administration from UB and a BS in Geography from KSU. As a Student Affairs professional, Nicholas strives to cultivate inclusive spaces and teachable moments where students are heard and are given the tools to excel on their own path. Nicholas is a proud Buffaloian, avid wholesale club shopper, J.Crew Stan, and huge Bravoholic.
Member at Large | Membership
David Gosper (he/him)
Area Coordinator
Keuka College
141 Central Avenue, Keuka Park, NY 14478
(315) 279-5606
mal@cspanys.org | dgosper@keuka.edu
David is an Area Coordinator at Keuka College, where he focuses on enhancing the first-year experience through the coordination of New Student Orientation. He previously served as a Resident Director at Monroe Community College and as a Graduate Assistant at Keuka College. David holds a Master of Science in Business Management from Keuka College, as well as a bachelor’s degree in business management. He is passionate about creating meaningful learning opportunities for students and strongly believes in the value of learning beyond the classroom. In his free time, David enjoys golfing, fishing, and hiking when the New York weather permits.
Member at Large | Educational & Strategic Partnerships
Angela Clark-Taylor
Associate Professor & Chair EdD
St. John Fisher
Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. School of Education; 3690 East Avenue, Rochester, NY 14618
585- 385-8114
mal@cspanys.org | aclark-taylor@sjf.edu
Angela Clark-Taylor, Ph.D. is an Associate Professor in the Ralph C. Wilson Jr. School of Education at St. John Fisher University. Clark-Taylor currently serves as the Chair of the Doctorate in Executive Leadership. Clark-Taylor has 20 years of experience as a scholar-practitioner with roles across student and academic affair in higher education as well health and community-focused organizations. Her leadership has been recognized by the American Association for Women as an emerging leader, Internal Council for Research on Women through the Community Innovation Fellowship program, and the National Women’s Studies Association’s mentor award. Clark-Taylor’s research examines the relationship between leaders’ social identities and institutional structures to illuminate pathways for organizational change that serve the public good. Clark-Taylor’s scholarship has been honored by the American Education Research Association committee for Research on Women and has been published in the Journal for Higher Education Outreach and Engagement, the Journal of College and Character, Violence Against Women, and the Journal About Women and Gender in Higher Education. Her current projects focus on how organizational cultural and workplace trauma shapes workers’ well-being and retention.
Member at Large | Professional Development
Jeremy Howard (he/him)
Online Academic Advisor
Alfred State College
10 Upper College Drive, Alfred NY 14802
607-587-3453
mal@cspanys.org | howardj@alfredstate.edu
Jeremy is the Online Academic Advisor for Alfred State College, serving as primary advisor for online Healthcare Management and Individual Studies students as well as a general advisor for all other online students. He has served as a Leadership Education and an Academic Integrity grad assistant at University at Buffalo, as well as the Assistant Program Coordinator for UB’s Intercultural and Diversity Center. Jeremy earned his BA in Linguistics and Music at UB in 2021, and his MEd in Higher Education and Student Affairs in 2023. He is on the Logistics team of the Annual Conference committee, specializing in mobile app development. Jeremy enjoys spending his free time singing, playing D&D, and reading tarot, and is a meditation and yoga aficionado - otherwise, you’ll find him enjoying downtime with his husband and their cat and three dogs.
Coordinator of Finance and Administration
Spencer Cottman (he/him)
Program Supervisor
Erie County Crisis Services
100 River Rock Dr | Suite 300, Buffalo, NY 14207
(716) 834-3131
administration@cspanys.org | SCottman@crisisservices.org
Spencer Cottman is currently the Program Supervisor for Erie County Crisis Service and was previously the Student Conduct Coordinator at Buffalo State University. Spencer is an alumnus of SUNY Brockport and the University at Buffalo, earing his B.S. in Adolescent History Education (’18) and M.Ed in Higher Education Administration (’20) respectively. Spencer has been with CSPA since 2019 and has served on various Conference Committees in Accessibility & Inclusion and Logistics & Volunteers sub-committees. Spencer is a lifelong WNY-er, a proud cat parent, and drinks too much coffee for his own good.
Faculty Liaison
Susan Iverson (she/her)
Professor and Director, Doctoral Program in Educational Leadership
Manhattanville University
School of Education, 2900 Purchase Street, Purchase NY 10577
(914) 798-2712
susan.iverson@mville.edu
Dr. Susan V. Iverson is Professor of Higher Education Leadership, and Director of the EdD Program, at Manhattanville University. Iverson's research interests include equity, diversity, status of women, leadership in higher education. Before her current position, Iverson served as faculty of Higher Education Administration & Student Personnel at Kent State University where she was also an affiliated faculty member with both the Women’s Studies and LGBT Studies Programs. Prior to becoming faculty full-time faculty in 2006, Iverson worked in student affairs administration for nearly 15 years at institutions in Massachusetts, Virginia, and Maine. Iverson holds a B.A. in English from Keene State College (NH), a M.A. in Higher Education Administration from Boston College, a M.Ed. in Counseling from Bridgewater State College (MA), and earned her doctorate in higher educational leadership, with a concentration in women’s studies, from the University of Maine. Iverson's daughter was born while she was a doctoral student, and developed her critical consciousness of being a mother in higher education.
Learn more about Susan on LinkedIn and follow Susan on Twitter @susaniverson1
Historian
Peter Smith (he/him)
Assistant Director of Residential Life
University at Buffalo
123 Richmond Quad, Buffalo, NY 14261
(716) 645-6304
historian@cspanys.org | ppsmith@buffalo.edu
Peter Smith is currently the Assistant Director of Residential Life at the University at Buffalo in Buffalo, NY. Peter has previous experience from Appalachian State University, Rochester Institute of Technology, Eastern Illinois University and Queens University of Charlotte, NC. Peter has an B.A. in Fine Arts from St. Lawrence University and an M.S.Ed. in College Student Affairs from Eastern Illinois University. He is currently working on his PhD. in Educational Culture, Policy, & Society at the University at Buffalo. Involved in CSPA-NYS since 2001, Peter has held many roles including President, Conference Chair, and Member at Large as well as his current role as Historian. Peter’s professional interests include: professional staff supervision, men’s development, spirituality and faith development, leadership, and presentation and workshop development. His personal interests include: his Faith, travel, movies, cooking, the outdoors, gardening & landscaping, and spending time with his wife and two children.
