Commissioners

Our Commissioners are community members who serve on a volunteer basis.
Learn more about us and to join us on the Commission!

Erica Forneret
Chair

Kathryn McKenzie
Commissioner

Michelle Roach
Commissioner

Jason Otero
Commissioner

Chivita Espacial
Co-Chair

Chivita Espacial is an educator, cultural organizer, and community artist rooted in various communities. Their work intersects oral histories, solidarity economy, mental health, antiracist queer transfeminism, and immigration, focusing on sustainable creative practices and deepening relationships with honesty and integrity. Chivi is dedicated to cultivating spaces for autonomy, self-determination, well-being, and joy.

Penelope Taylor
Commissioner

Nasihah W. Jones
Commissioner

Jonathan Hamilt
Co-Chair

Jonathan Hamilt is a drag queen, co-founder of Drag Story Hour, and serves on the board of directors for the Newburgh Historical Society. He actively promotes community engagement and, with a passion for historic restoration, connects diverse groups to build a vibrant, welcoming community.

Dr. Debra Lamb
Commissioner

Dr. Debra Lamb is a retired educational administrator with more than 26 years of professional service in public education and 12 years of service in nonprofit and philanthropic organizations. Originally from Brooklyn, NY, Dr. Lamb resides within the City of Newburgh. Dr. Lamb also serves on the board of the Historical Society of Newburgh Bay and the Highlands.

Gary Castelli
Commissioner

Transcendence “Life In Colors” by Dasic Fernandez/ Photo: Erica M. Forneret