May 9, 2017
Dear Friends of F.O.C.U.S.:
I’m very happy to announce that the F.O.C.U.S. Greater Syracuse Board of Directors has accepted the recommendation of the Succession Committee to name James E. Keib of Liverpool as our next Executive Director. The board also has named retiring Executive Director and Co-Founder of F.O.C.U.S., Charlotte “Chuckie” Holstein, as Executive Director Emeritus.
Mr. Keib has 30 years of experience in business, government and management and marketing for non-profit organizations. He has served on the boards of the Friends of the Rosamond Gifford Zoo, the Erie Canal Museum, Literacy Volunteers, and the Onondaga Historical Association. Most recently he has been Executive Director of the Northeast Economic Development Association, an association of economic development professionals in states from Maine to Maryland. His resume includes more than a decade as Director of Business Development and Government Affairs for the C&S Cos. engineering firm.
Mr. Keib earned a master’s degree in community and economic development from the World Campus of Penn State University and a bachelor’s degree in history from SUNY Binghamton.
Ms. Holstein, who at 91 years of age will continue to be an active citizen trustee, has set up an office downtown to pursue projects on her list of “to do” items and says she looks forward to seeing the opportunities new leadership brings to the group.
Those of you who know us well know that F.O.C.U.S. is a citizen driven organization that taps citizen creativity to bring about change in Central New York by enabling citizens, organizations, and government to work together to enhance the quality of our lives and economic future.
We look forward to continuing this effort under the leadership of Executive Director Keib, who will take office the week of July 3rd. In the interim as President of the Board of Directors I will be the acting Executive Director. Wish us well.
Sincerely,
