Rockland Community College Foundation Announces New Board Members

The Rockland Community College (RCC) Foundation proudly announces the appointment of new members to its Board of Directors, strengthening the Foundation’s leadership as it continues its mission to support student success, innovation, and strategic growth at RCC.

The newly appointed board members bring extensive experience across education, business, philanthropy, and community engagement. Their leadership will help guide the Foundation in expanding scholarship opportunities, advancing academic and workforce programs, and increasing access to resources that empower RCC students.

Brian J. Bertaux

Brian J. Bertaux is a seasoned financial executive with over 20 years of leadership in manufacturing, construction, and sustainable industries. He has served as CFO at Hudson Technologies, a national refrigerant reclaimer and HVAC/R solutions provider, since 2024. 

Bertaux’s career includes nearly 20 years at Trex Company, where he advanced from SeniorDirector of Finance & Strategy to Interim President of Trex Commercial Products, helping grow revenue from $100 million to $900 million. He also served as Vice President of Finance at von Drehle Corporation during its 2022 acquisition by Marcal Paper and as CFO at Brown Haven Homes.

Brian holds a BS in Finance and Accounting from Frostburg State University, an MBA from the University of Maryland and is a CPA and CTP. His financial management and strategic leadership benefit the Rockland Community College Foundation Board, supporting its mission to expand educational access. Bertaux is pleased “to help establish and achieve the RCC Foundation’s goals and to support its commitment to growing the College and its impact on the surrounding community.”

Crismelly Morales, Esq.

Crismelly Morales, Esq. is an immigration and family law attorney and founder of the Law Office of Crismelly Morales, Esq., P.C. in New City, NY. An alumna of RCC, she earned her A.A.S. in Paralegal Studies before completing her B.A. at SUNY Purchase and J.D. at New York Law School. Morales later returned to RCC as an adjunct professor and serves on the Legal Studies Program Advisory Committee and was the Class of 2025 commencement speaker at RCC’s 65th Commencement Ceremony. She is active in the legal community and was admitted to practice in New York, New Jersey, and before the Second and Third Circuit Courts of Appeals.

Gemini Watanabe

Gemini Watanabe is the owner of Summit Street Design, a kitchen and bath design firm based in Nyack NY that she started 23 years ago. She earned degrees from Smith College and the Culinary Institute of America. A resident of Rockland County for 29 years, Gemini and her husband raised two sons in Nyack. She previously served on the Village of Nyack Architectural Review Board, and her recent empty-nester status has given her more time to volunteer with local organizations such as Angel Nyack, Meals on Wheels, and the Rockland County YMCA.

“Each of our new board members brings unique strengths, and together they represent an extraordinary depth of experience, innovation, and community connection. Their leadership will play a vital role in advancing the Foundation’s mission and supporting the continued success of Rockland Community College.”,” said Walter Goldman, Chair of the RCC Foundation.

“We are thrilled to welcome these outstanding leaders to the RCC Foundation Board,” said Karen Lewis, Executive Director of Development at Rockland Community College. “Their diverse perspectives, professional expertise, and passion for student success will help us strengthen our impact across the region.”

Board Vice Chair Howard Hellman added, “The continued growth and vitality of RCC depend on strong leadership and meaningful community partnerships. Our new board members will be instrumental in elevating the Foundation’s work and broadening our reach.”

Since 1981, the Rockland Community College Foundation has dedicated itself to transforming lives by increasing access to quality education and supporting students, faculty, and staff. Through strategic fundraising, community collaborations, and philanthropic initiatives, it offers vital scholarships, emergency aid, and program funding to foster student success. The RCC Foundation reinforces the College’s mission by ensuring that all members of the RCC community have the resources and opportunities needed for academic, professional, and personal growth.

To learn more about the RCC Foundation, its mission, the Board of Directors, and ways to support students, please visit https://sunyrockland.edu/foundation/foundation-board/. To find out how you can get involved or invest in education, contact Karen Lewis, Executive Director of the RCC Foundation, at 845-574-4595 or karen.lewis@sunyrockland.edu.