Carissa Bentley was recently appointed executive director of the SUNY Jamestown Community College Foundation by its board of directors.
“We are incredibly excited to have Carissa step up to the position of executive director," said Wade Weatherlow, president of the JCC Foundation. “Carissa has eight years of foundation expertise and a wealth of experience, which will significantly contribute to the success of our mission.
“In her new role,” Weatherlow added, “we anticipate a fresh perspective as we continue to inspire community support for Jamestown Community College.”
Bentley, who replaces the retired Maria Kindberg, was JCC’s Development and Alumni Relations coordinator since 2022. She joined the Foundation in 2017 and has served in various capacities for both the Foundation and the college.
Bentley earned a B.A. in political science from SUNY Fredonia.
As executive director, Bentley is responsible for the overall operation of the JCC Foundation, including financial giving campaigns, alumni relations, and community relationships.
In her role as Development and Alumni Relations coordinator, Bentley led the colleges two volunteer alumni association boards through major fundraisers, such as the Cattaraugus County Campus golf tournament and the Jamestown Campus mystery theater; planned and executed giving days; and helped elevate JCC’s annual awards dinners into a gala event that raises money and inspires donors.
“Carissa is passionate about her work with the JCC Foundation and supporting the dreams of our students and the legacies of our donors,” said JCC President Daniel DeMarte. “I am excited for what Carissa will bring to her new role and am confident that she will continue to strengthen the Foundation’s mission of benefitting our college, our students, and the community.”
The JCC Foundation is an independent, not-for-profit organization which develops, maintains, and manages an endowment to support projects and activities that strengthen the college’s mission.