Westhab Welcomes New Leadership and Announces Executive Changes

Westhab is excited to share some big updates to our leadership team!

New Leaders Elected to the Board of Directors Executive Committee

We are thrilled to welcome a new wave of leadership to Westhab’s Executive Committee. These appointments reflect the Board’s unwavering dedication to our mission and a shared vision for the future.

Jefferson Boyce has been elected Co-Chair of the Board of Directors, serving alongside Jesse Krasnow. Betsy Bush and Seth Rosen have both stepped into the role of Vice Chair, with Robert H. Petrocelli, Jr. remaining in his position as Vice Chair. Additionally, Jonalie Korengold has taken on the role of Secretary, while Paul Turovsky will remain Treasurer.

Meet the New Executive Committee Members

We are excited to introduce the new members of our Executive Committee:

Jeff Boyce
Jeff Boyce has served on Westhab’s Board since 2009 and now serves as Co-Chair. He has retired from his position as Senior Managing Director at New York Life Investment Management and brings extensive experience in investment management and community leadership that will continue to guide Westhab’s growth.

Betsy Bush

Betsy Bush joined the Westhab board in 2020 and now serves as Vice Chair. She brings a wealth of experience in the nonprofit sector, particularly in development, grant-making, and volunteer leadership. She hosts the podcast “The Call to Create: Become the artist, writer, or creator you want to be in midlife.”

Seth Rosen
Seth Rosen, a member of the Westhab Board since 2017, now serves as Vice Chair and continues to chair the Strategic Planning Committee. He is a retired partner of the law firm Debevoise & Plimpton and remains active in community leadership.

Jonalie Korengold
Jonalie Korengold has been a dedicated member of Westhab’s Board since 2016 and now serves as Secretary. She chairs our Development Committee and brings her expertise in fundraising and civic engagement. 

These changes mark a new chapter for Westhab’s leadership, as we continue to grow and serve more individuals and families.

“Our Board’s commitment to Westhab’s mission and growth is what makes it such a remarkable force for change,” said Rich Nightingale, Westhab’s President and CEO. “These new roles and the leadership all of our Board Members bring to their positions will continue to drive our success as we work to change lives across the region.”

A Fond Farewell to Patricia Vitelli

We are also reflecting on the incredible contributions of Patricia “Pat” Vitelli, Westhab’s Senior Vice President of Finance and Administration, who will be retiring in March 2025 after 25 years of service.

Pat has been a cornerstone of Westhab’s success, particularly during some of the organization’s most challenging times. Her leadership through the 2008 financial crisis ensured Westhab’s resilience and growth. Over the years, Pat has led the organization’s financial operations, helping Westhab expand its reach to serve more than 20,000 New Yorkers annually.

“Pat has been a guiding light for Westhab. Her leadership, commitment to our financial health, and integrity have been instrumental in Westhab’s growth,” said Paul Turovsky, Treasurer of Westhab’s Board of Directors. “While we will miss her deeply, her legacy will continue to inspire us for years to come.”

Welcoming Stephanie Viola as the New Vice President of Finance

We are also excited to announce that Stephanie Viola will be promoted to Vice President of Finance in recognition of her outstanding service and leadership. Stephanie has been with Westhab for 22 years, rising through the ranks with several promotions, most recently serving as Assistant Vice President of Accounting. Her deep knowledge of Westhab’s operations and her years of mentorship under Pat Vitelli make her the perfect candidate to step into this critical role.

“Stephanie’s dedication and expertise have been integral to Westhab’s success, and we are thrilled to have her step into this new leadership position,” shares James Coughlin, Chief Operating Officer. “Her long-standing commitment to our mission will help Westhab continue to thrive as we look toward the future.”