News from the Noteworthy from Opportunities for Otsego

New Leadership Working To Move OFO Forward

Opportunities for Otsego Inc. has been through some major transitions in the last few months. Our Chief Executive Officer, Daniel Maskin, after decades at the helm of the agency, retired as our leader. In addition, our former CEO, Cheri Albrecht, sadly passed away in September. Their legacies truly made a difference in the lives of the less fortunate across Otsego County and left very large shoes to fill for me as the new CEO.

Some of you may remember me from my tenure at “The Daily Star,” but for roughly the last 15 years, I have been part of the management team here at Opportunities for Otsego, handling the fiscal responsibilities for the agency. While not in direct service, the chief financial officer can only truly be supportive to clients, program staff, and senior management by understanding the programs administered, goals and deliverables for clients, and regulations behind the money. With predominantly state and federal funding, each with its unique requirements, narratives, and systems, there was never a dull moment to ensure compliance in safeguarding those funds for the success of those we support and serve. In this supportive role, collaborative efforts are the backbone to ensure that funding is in the right bucket to support program objectives and client outcomes.

So the question is, now what? How do I effectively make the transition from CFO to CEO? Well, the first focus for me is to get out in the community and make those personal contacts with leaders, other providers, and established partners, so everyone can put a face with my name. While I am not shy in outreach, I am quite humbled by the things I need to learn. I am surprised that after 58 years in the community, OFO and its programs are not widely known, so we have work to do there! In the coming months, I hope to connect with many of you and absorb and leverage your thoughts, suggestions, criticisms, and experiences with our agency. That insight will be invaluable to our organization as we start our new chapter.

OFO’s mission is to be the leader in developing innovative solutions that promote healthy lives, thriving families and caring communities. I can only strive to continue the efforts of my predecessors through collaborative partnership and support of the staff for the ultimate success of our clients. While it will be no small task, it is my privilege to lead the OFO team as we strive to foster economic stability and social justice for all!

Tanya Shalor is the chief executive officer for Opportunities for Otsego.