At the Children’s Institute, our commitment to supporting children and families is reflected in the diverse expertise and passion of our Board of Directors. This dynamic group of professionals brings together a wealth of knowledge from various fields, united by a shared mission to create positive change in our community.  

Let’s take a closer look at the individuals guiding our organization:

• Larry D. Perkins, Ph.D., MBA, a longstanding board member since 2006, currently leads as our Board Chair. He is a committed adviser to CI, with extensive experience in management consulting. Dr. Perkins’ wisdom and strategic counsel guides our short-term needs and long-term vision.
• Dianne Cooney Miner, Ph.D., RN, FAAN, FFNMRCSI (Hon), who has been a champion for children in our community, serves as our First Vice Chair. As Senior Advisor and Fellowship Director at the Golisano Institute for Developmental Disability Nursing and deep experience as the founding dean of the Wegmans School of Nursing, Dr. Miner brings a wealth of knowledge in healthcare, emphasizing the importance of well-being. Dr. Cooney Miner was inducted into Childrens Institute’s Coterie on Thursday, April 25, 2024.
• Amy V. Kahn, MBA, SPHR, our Second Vice Chair, and Chair of the Nominating & Governance Committee, has been pivotal in shaping the diverse constituency of the CI board since 2016. As Director of Human Resources at the School of the Holy Childhood, Ms. Kahn’s experience helps us cultivate a supportive organizational culture.
• Loisa Bennetto, Ph.D. serves as our Secretary and Co-Chair of the Strategic Planning Committee. With her role as the former Department Chair and Associate Professor at the University of Rochester, Dr. Bennetto’s insights into clinical and social sciences are invaluable. Elected in 2016, she continues to shape our strategic direction.
• Renu Bora, MIMS, MA, a Technology and Data Consultant who was elected to the board in 2021 is also a Co-Chair of the Strategic Planning Committee and serves as a COMET Board Member. Mr. Bora’s expertise in technology enhances our capacity to leverage data for improved decision-making, ensuring we remain at the forefront of innovative solutions.
• Melissa M. Goodwin, Ph.D., Chairs our Development Committee. She is an Associate Professor and Associate Dean, School of Arts and Sciences, at St. John Fisher College. First elected in 2017, she is dedicated to psychological health and well-being.
• Christopher Homan, Ph.D., an Associate Professor at Rochester Institute of Technology, contributes a strong academic background in computer science. He is Chair of the Audit Committee and serves as a COMET Board Member. His leadership since 2022 helps effectively integrate technology with mission.
• Joseph W. Milks, JD, CSM, our Treasurer and Chair of the Finance Committee and Social Equity Task Force, brings critical financial oversight. His expertise as Chief Compliance Officer guides his work supporting our operations.
• Rashid Muhammad, Ed.D., first elected in 2016, has a wealth of experiences, including in engineering and operations, teaching, as well as community engagement. Dr. Muhammad has a deep commitment to community service and is currently serving as the Director of Community Partnerships for JustCause.
• Allison Pletzer Willems, who joined us in 2021 in her role as the Senior Director of Educational Resources at ProCare Therapy, brings a fresh perspective on educational innovation, and specifically supports the Development efforts of the board.
• Todd A. Savage, Ph.D., NCSP, a Professor at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls, emphasizes the importance of education in our mission. First joining in 2018, his term on the board continues to support our commitment to equity, learning and growth.
• James M. Sperry, Ph.D., MBA, a Managing Director at Tompkins Financial Advisors, lends his financial acumen to our initiatives, ensuring our resources are effectively managed.

New to the CI Board in 2024:

• Megan Ostrowski, an Assistant Principal. Megan’s experience in education will be essential as we strive to enhance our educational programs.
• Dena Phillips Swanson, Ph.D., Dena Phillips Swanson, Ph.D., Department Chair of Human Development & Family Studies at UNC Greensboro, is a professor of human development known for her contributions in the field of child and adolescent development.
• Michael E. Winterhalter, Director of Operational Accounting at Action for a Better Community, Inc., has extensive experience in high-level financial roles across various non-profit organizations.

We are honored to work with such Passionate Leaders, Seasoned Advisors, and Future Visionaries!

Our Board of Directors exemplifies the leadership, commitment, energy, and expertise necessary to fulfill the mission of the Children’s Institute. Their dedication to improving the lives of children and families is not just a commitment; it is a promise to our community. We are excited about the positive changes we can make together.

Click here for board ‘bios’ and more: Meet Our Board of Directors