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Local Voices

Friends of Westchester County Parks Elects New Chairperson Joanne Fernandez of Entergy

(WHITE PLAINS, NY) April 2014 – Friends of Westchester County Parks announced Joanne Fernandez, Manager of Government Affairs at Entergy, as its new Chairperson of the Board of Directors. Fernandez’s appointment comes after Elizabeth Bracken-Thompson’s announcement to step down as chairperson after six years.

 

This is Fernandez’s fourth year on the Friends Board of Directors. “As a long-time member of the Friends Board, I have seen impressive work that has been accomplished by the organization and its members,” said Fernandez. “I look forward to building upon Friends’ successes as we continue to collaborate with our members and communities to keep our 18,000 acres of open space green and growing.”

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As Manager of Government Affairs at Fortune 500 Company Entergy, Fernandez has direct responsibility for managing day-to-day state and local government relations including legislative affairs, advocacy and political activities within New York State.

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Her work in the community helps to support important local community programs and not-for-profit organizations. She has been recognized for achievement and outstanding corporate citizenship by numerous organizations including: an “Outstanding Women Business Leader” by the NYC Hispanic Chamber of Commerce; a “Rising Star” by the Business Council of Westchester; a “Visionary Leader” by Kids Xpress Magazine; and the “Green Friend” of the year award from the Volunteer Center of the United Way. In addition, she serves as an Executive Board Member of the Greater New York American Red Cross.

 

“Friends is privileged to have Joanne lead our Board. She understands the challenges we face and brings a passion for innovation and service excellence, both of which will strengthen our mission,” said Executive Director Joe Stout.

 

A native New Yorker, Fernandez graduated magna cum laude from the State University of New York at Albany with a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science, Latin American Studies, a minor in Economics and a Master’s Degree in Public Policy.

 

Friends engages the public to advocate for and invest in the preservation, conservation, use, and enjoyment of the 18,000 acres of parks, trails, and open spaces within the Westchester County Parks system.

 

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