Join us for our annual Summer Gathering on Friday, June 7, 2024, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Congressman Maurice D. Hinchey Catskills Visitor Center. This commuinity event offers a unique opportunity for Catskills locals, visitors, newcomers alike to come together for an engaging evening with featured speakers from across the region. We’ll celebrate the Catskills experience with a live program including individual presentations, panel discussions (with a question-and-answer segment), and light bites provided by the Phoenicia Diner.
This year, we are proud to host three distinguished changemakers who each embody the spirit of this year’s theme, The Future of the Catskills:
Esi Lewis: Born and raised in New Paltz, Esi Lewis pursued her higher education at Hampton University and Suffolk University Law School. After serving as an Assistant District Attorney in Brooklyn's Sex Crimes Bureau and working at HSBC Bank, Esi returned to her roots in New Paltz. She has been a driving force in local community initiatives, including the New Paltz Police Reform Committee, and she made history as the first Black member of the New Paltz Town Board in January 2022. In 2023, Esi was appointed Ulster County’s Chief Diversity Officer, deepening her commitment to her community.
Iris Fen Gillingham: Iris Fen Gillingham grew up on Wild Roots Farm in the Catskills, where she began her journey as a climate justice advocate at the age of 9, starting with her community's campaign against fracking. She has worked with Earth Guardians and launch Zero Hour, earning recognition from outlets like Vice, CNN, and National Geographic for her efforts. Iris founded Gael Roots Community Farm to foster deeper connections between her community and their natural surroundings. She is a graduate of College of the Atlantic, holding a degree in Human Ecology.
Amy Brown-White: Amy M. Brown-White passionately supports organizations striving to be more equitable and inclusive. Specializing in crafting unique anti-racist programs, she designs strategies that promote sustained organizational growth. Amy’s empathetic and personalized approach has benefited educational and nonprofit groups, including Middleway School and Woodstock Day School. She is a two time Chronogrammie winner and will complete a leadership degree at Harvard University (HGSE) in 2026.
Full event details can be found here.