At Brightside Up, our program directors and department experts are committed to excellence in childcare, safety, and community engagement. Explore how our programs can benefit your child’s development and discover more about our services by visiting our Services for Providers. Join us in creating a nurturing environment where every child can thrive.
Empire State Family Child Care Collaborative
Stephanie Trombly is the director of the ESFCCC Team, which is dedicated to offering personalized, ongoing support services to help Group Family/Family Child Care Providers succeed. When you join a network, providers can build lasting professional relationships and get tools to improve how they run their businesses by utilizing an online platform. Being part of an ESFCCC means having a team behind you to help grow your program and make your business stronger.
Stephanie Trombly
Empire State Family Child Care Collaborative Director
518-426-7181 Ext 318 [email protected]Kiersten Scott
Empire State Family Child Care Collaborative Coach
518-426-7181 Ext 349 [email protected]Jennifer Pierre
Empire State Family Child Care Collaborative Coach
518-426-7181 Ext 331 [email protected]Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP)
Martha LeGere is the director of the CACFP team, which is dedicated to ensuring that family and group family child care providers receive essential support and resources through the Child and Adult Care Food Program. They visit homes to provide guidance on nutritious meal planning and help providers navigate program requirements, promoting the health and wellness of young children. Their work enhances program participation and ensures compliance with CACFP regulations, fostering healthy eating habits and educational opportunities in childcare settings.
Executive
Abbe Kovacik is the Executive Director of Brightside Up leading our efforts to increase the quality, affordability, and capacity of early childhood programs in the region, and does so through education, outreach, and advocacy. She is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the agency and drives our mission and vision forward.
Finance
Education and Curriculum Services
Raquel Saddlemire directs our Educational Services department, where she leads the creation of training programs for early childhood educators. Her team develops innovative training and coaching opportunities that meet state standards and emphasize interactive learning experiences for the adult learner. Through their work, Raquel ensures that teachers are prepared to provide top-tier education, preparing them for future professional development while advancing the field of early childhood education.
Kaitlyn Rooney
Infant Early Childhood Mental Health Consultant
518-426-7181 Ext 345 [email protected]Professional Development
Heather Sweet, leads our Professional Development department, and spearheads initiatives to enhance childcare providers’ skills and knowledge. Her department focuses on training, coaching, and continuous education in early childhood development, ensuring caregivers meet regulatory standards and deliver quality care. Discover how Heather and her team support career growth and excellence in childcare through tailored programs and resources.
Health and Nutrition
Barbara Vickery, RN, leads our Health Education Services department at Brightside Up, dedicated to enhancing child health and safety in childcare settings. Her team offers vital training on health standards, nutrition, and safety practices, ensuring regulatory compliance and fostering a secure environment. Discover how Barbara and her team empower childcare providers with essential knowledge and resources for optimal child development and well-being.
Infant and Toddler Services
Kathleen Harland oversees our Infant & Toddler Services, focusing on supporting early educators to provide specialized programs tailored to the needs of infant and toddler children. Under her guidance, our team of specialists ensures a supportive environment that fosters growth and learning during these critical years.
Employee and Community Services
Tricia Howland heads our Employee and Community Services program, which emphasizes the well-being of our staff and community outreach efforts. This program supports a positive workplace culture and strengthens community connections, promoting a holistic approach to childcare and education.
Yacinyah Cayemitte
Communications & Customer Support Coordinator
518-426-7181 Ext 316 [email protected]Regulatory Services
Amy Powell leads our Regulatory department, ensuring compliance with New York State’s standards and regulations to maintain the highest levels of safety and quality in family child care homes and school-age programs. Her team collaborates closely with regulatory bodies to uphold these standards, providing peace of mind to families and stakeholders alike.
John Michalowski
Registrar
518 426-7181 ext. 308 john.michalowski@ocfs.ny.govCustomer Service
Legally Exempt Services
Darlene Carnibucci oversees our Legally Exempt Child Care program, which provides essential childcare services to families who qualify under specific state regulations due to irregular work schedules. This program ensures access to high-quality care for children in diverse circumstances, promoting equity, and accessibility in early childhood education.
Board of Directors
- Chair
Allison Turicio
Marketing, Siena College - Vice Chair
Carmela Pasquarella
Marketing Operations at MVP Health Care - Co-Treasurer
Constance Larkins-Reynolds
Director & Owner Lil Lambs Christian Daycare, Inc. - Co-Treasurer
Jeffrey Ricchiuti
Broadview Wealth Management - Secretary
Rebecca Fitch
YWCA of Northeastern NY
Members
- Ellen Burns
Early Childhood Family and Community Engagement Center (FACE)/ Special Education - Tami B. Callister
Executive Director, Achievements & Kids Express - Chelsea Engle
Speech-Language Pathologist, Language Fundamentals - Christine DiMaio
Chief Financial Officer, Northern Rivers Family Services - Rebecca Fitch
YWCA of NorthEastern NY - Demetris E. Fullard
CEO Infinite Love LLC Early Education Program - Deirdre Greco
CUNY PDI Coach, retired Child Care Director - Constance Larkins-Reynolds
Director & Owner Lil Lambs Christian Daycare, Inc. - Kathy M. Messore
Director of Human Resources, Hometown Health Centers - Carmella Pasquarella
Marketing Operations at MVP Health Care - Allison Turcio
Siena College, Marketing - Jeffrey Ricchiuti
Director of Advisory Operations, Broadview Wealth Management - Caroline Hussey
Early Intervention Program Coordinator, Schenectady County - Tia Martin
Early Child Program/Human Resource Officer, Commission on Economic Opportunity - Jessica Quackenbush
Early Childhood Instructor, Capital Region BOCES
