Board Member Detail
Frank Hutchins
Founding President
In Memorium
Frank Hutchins was the founding President of the Adirondack Park Institute and a driving force behind its early vision and development. A Rochester native and accomplished marketing executive, Frank built a nationally recognized advertising firm and brought that same leadership, energy, and strategic thinking to the organizations he cared about most.
Beyond his professional success, Frank was deeply committed to community service and education. He served for more than 40 years on the board of trustees at Rochester Institute of Technology, including as chairman, and was a dedicated supporter of Paul Smith’s College, where he served as a trustee for over three decades. His passion for the Adirondacks, where his family maintained a home for generations, inspired his long-standing involvement in regional conservation and education efforts.
Widely respected for his leadership, generosity, and commitment to others, Frank’s legacy continues to shape the Adirondack Park Institute and the broader community he served so faithfully.
Frank Pine
President
Dr. Frank Pine is a retired environmental scientist with a long and accomplished career in ecology and environmental consulting. He spent 35 years with EA Engineering, Science and Technology in Baltimore, where he led complex environmental projects and specialized in impact assessment, ecological research, and regional planning efforts.
Frank brings deep scientific expertise and a lifelong commitment to environmental stewardship to his work with the Adirondack Park Institute. He has been a member of the API Board for over 15 years and now serves as President, helping guide the organization’s mission to connect people—especially youth—with the Adirondack environment.
In addition to his work with API, Frank is actively involved in local conservation efforts in Long Lake, including protecting water quality and addressing aquatic invasive species. He also supports community initiatives through grant work and local partnerships.
Frank and his wife, Lorraine, split their time between Baltimore and Long Lake. In his free time, he enjoys photography, birding, travel, and exploring the Adirondacks.
Bill Farber
Vice President
Bill Farber serves as Chairman of Hamilton County Board of Supervisors and Supervisor for the Town of Morehouse. A lifelong Adirondack resident, Bill brings a deep understanding of the region, its communities, and the balance between economic development and environmental stewardship.
Known for his thoughtful, steady leadership, Bill has been a strong advocate for the people of Hamilton County, working to support local municipalities, strengthen regional partnerships, and preserve the character of the Adirondacks. His work often focuses on collaboration, ensuring that communities have a voice in decisions that impact their future.
Bill’s connection to the Adirondacks is both professional and personal, and his commitment to the region continues to guide his leadership and service.
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Robert Cummings
Treasurer
Robert Cummings is a former international banker and retired educational consultant, bringing a strong background in finance, strategy, and organizational leadership. He joined the Adirondack Park Institute Board in 2019.
Robert and his wife, Poppy, are fourth-generation, lifelong members of the Tahawus Club in Newcomb, where they now reside. He currently serves as President of the Tahawus Club and is deeply connected to the Adirondack community.
With both professional expertise and a personal commitment to the region, Robert plays an important role in supporting the financial stewardship and long-term sustainability of the organization.
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Col. Robert "Bob"
C. Lilly
Secretary
Colonel Robert C. Lilly, USAF (Ret.), is a graduate of St. Michael’s College, the Air Force Squadron Officer School, and the Industrial College of the Armed Forces. He served 27 years in the United States Air Force, retiring as Deputy Director of Communications and Computer Systems for the Strategic Air Command at Offutt Air Force Base.
Following his military career, Robert served as Director of Data Processing and Information Systems for Essex County in Elizabethtown, NY. He has been deeply involved with the Adirondack Park Institute, serving in multiple leadership roles including Executive Director, Treasurer, Vice President, and President.
A longtime resident of Newcomb, Robert has also been active in local leadership, serving as Chairman of the Planning Board, leading the committee to rewrite the town’s Comprehensive Plan, and serving as Chairman of the School Board.
Stuart Angert
Trustee
Stuart Angert is the founder and former Chief Executive Officer of Remarketing Services of America, Inc., bringing extensive experience in business leadership and strategic development. Throughout his career, he has remained deeply engaged in service, contributing his time and expertise to a number of boards focused on healthcare and higher education.
He currently serves as Chairman of the Independent Health Foundation and was appointed as a Commissioner for the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation in the Niagara District.
Stuart earned his Bachelor of Arts from Colgate University and his MBA from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania.
Robert Calihan
Trustee
Robert Calihan is the founder of Calihan Law PLLC, a boutique litigation firm based in Rochester, New York. After more than 30 years practicing in large law firms, he established his firm in 2010 to offer a more strategic and client-focused approach to resolving complex business disputes.
Robert’s work focuses on commercial, franchise, employment, and international arbitration matters. He is known for his ability to drive cases toward efficient, early resolution whenever possible, while also representing clients effectively in court and arbitration when needed.
With decades of experience and a practical, solutions-oriented mindset, Robert brings strong legal expertise and sound judgment to his work. He is proud to support the mission of the Adirondack Park Institute and its work in the region.
Catherine Ericson
Trustee
Catherine Ericson is a hospitality entrepreneur and serves as the Lake Placid Community Liaison for the Regional Office of Sustainable Tourism (ROOST). Since moving to Lake Placid in 1998, she and her husband, Chris, have built a well-known Adirondack craft beer presence as owners of The Lake Placid Pub & Brewery, Big Slide Brewery & Public House, and RiverTrail Beer Works in Saranac Lake.
As a key part of the ownership and growth of their businesses, Catherine has helped shape a brand that has become a staple in the region, known for its quality, community focus, and long-standing success. Together, they have played an important role in the local economy and in promoting Lake Placid as a destination.
Deeply rooted in the Adirondacks, Catherine is committed to supporting a vibrant and sustainable community. She and Chris live in Lake Placid with their two children, Grace and CJ.
Mike German
Trustee
Mike German has been a member of the Adirondack Park Institute Board for over 20 years and is a past President of the Board. He brings decades of experience in the energy industry, including leadership roles with NYSEG and as President and CEO of Corning Natural Gas and Corning Energy Corporation.
Over a 48-year career in the energy sector, Mike played a key role in growing and guiding utility companies through changing regulatory and operational landscapes, helping position them for long-term success.
Mike has a deep appreciation for the Adirondacks and enjoys spending time hiking and exploring the region. He and his wife, Susan, live in Connecticut.
Paul Hai
Trustee
Paul Hai is the Associate Director of the Adirondack Ecological Center at ESF’s Newcomb Campus, where he leads both the Northern Forest Institute and the Timbuctoo Institute, focused on conservation education, leadership development, and expanding access to environmental careers.
Paul’s work centers on connecting science, education, and community, using the Adirondacks as a living classroom to engage students of all ages. He is passionate about creating interdisciplinary programs that bring together natural science, history, and social awareness to better understand and care for the region.
He is also a co-founder of the Adirondack Diversity Initiative, helping to expand opportunities and representation in environmental fields across the region.
With deep personal roots in the Adirondacks, Paul lives in Newcomb with his family and enjoys spending time outdoors hiking, canoeing, and exploring the landscape that inspires his work.
Mark Leta
Trustee
Mark Leta is a retired NYSEG leader with extensive experience in utility operations and energy infrastructure. Over the course of his career, he led large-scale projects across electric and gas systems, including system modernization, resiliency efforts, and emergency response initiatives.
He currently works with Northline Utilities, continuing his involvement in the energy sector and supporting projects throughout the Adirondack region. Known for his practical leadership and ability to navigate complex operations, Mark has built a reputation for delivering results and maintaining strong relationships across communities and stakeholders.
Mark is also a Trustee for Clinton Community College and serves on the Clinton County IDA Board. He and his wife, Debbie, live in Peru, New York.
Chuck Monzeglio
Trustee
Chuck Monzeglio is the President and CEO of CFM Construction Corporation, a Connecticut-based firm that has completed a wide range of projects across the region and beyond. With a long and successful career in construction, Chuck has also been involved in commercial real estate development and community-focused initiatives.
A veteran of the U.S. Air Force and Connecticut Air National Guard, Chuck has been deeply committed to service throughout his life. He has supported numerous organizations in business, education, and the arts, and is widely respected for his quiet generosity and lasting contributions to the communities he serves.
Chuck was a longtime friend of API’s founding President, Frank Hutchins, and has been a dedicated supporter of the organization’s mission. He has also served in leadership roles with API, helping to guide its growth and development.
Chuck lives in Connecticut and is the proud father of three children and grandfather of six.
Elizabeth "Liz" Thorndike
Trustee
Dr. Elizabeth Thorndike is a driving force in New York’s environmental policy landscape, with a decades-long commitment to protecting the Adirondack Park. She earned her Ph.D. in natural resource policy and planning from Cornell University, where she also served as adjunct faculty for 16 years.
Liz spent nearly 16 years as a commissioner for the Adirondack Park Agency and 20 years as a board member of the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority, helping shape policy and guide critical decisions impacting the region’s future. She is also a proven builder and leader, founding the Center for Environmental Information in Rochester and playing a key role in establishing the Adirondack Research Consortium.
Widely respected for her leadership, vision, and unwavering commitment to the Adirondacks, Liz has left a lasting mark on the region. Her legacy is honored each year through the Elizabeth Thorndike Adirondack Achievement Award, recognizing individuals who reflect her dedication to environmental stewardship and leadership.
Troy Trombley
Trustee
Troy Trombley is a North Country native who graduated from Beekmantown High School and earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management from SUNY Plattsburgh. He works with the Government and Community Relations team at NYSEG, serving as a key connection between energy infrastructure, local governments, and communities across the region.
Over the past five years, Troy has built a strong reputation for supporting municipalities and advancing economic development efforts. He regularly helps guide complex projects, bringing together teams and resources to navigate energy capacity, infrastructure, and growth opportunities with clarity and efficiency. In 2025, he was recognized by Strictly Business Magazine as one of their “20 Under 40” for leadership and community impact.
Troy lives in the North Country with his wife, Taylor, their daughter Charlotte, and a new addition on the way. Outside of work, he enjoys golfing, trail walks, and time on Lake Champlain.
Trisha Hosley
Director
Trisha Hosley grew up in San Carlos, California, on the San Francisco Bay Area Peninsula. She attended the University of Portland, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Organizational Communication and played Division I basketball, and later earned her California K–6 Teaching Credential from Dominican University.
In 2016, Trisha and her family moved to Long Lake, where she lives with her husband and their three children. She is the head coach of the Long Lake/Indian Lake boys varsity basketball team and is actively involved in the local community.
Trisha owns and operates a local Honor-Exchange Thrift store, and is closely involved in the management and operations of several family-run businesses in Long Lake.
She feels incredibly fortunate to raise her family in the Adirondacks and be part of such a strong, connected community.
Working with the Best Sustaining Partners
