The Rockland Community College (RCC) Foundation’s appointment of new members to its Board of Directors strengthens the foundation’s leadership as it continues its mission to support student success, innovation and strategic growth at RCC.
The newly appointed board members bring extensive experience across education, business, philanthropy and community engagement. Their leadership will help guide the Foundation in expanding scholarship opportunities, advancing academic and workforce programs,and increasing access to resources that empower RCC students.
New member Brian J. Bertaux is a seasoned financial executive with over 20 years of leadership in manufacturing, construction and sustainable industries. He has served as CFO at Hudson Technologies, a national refrigerant reclaimer and HVAC/R solutions provider, since 2024. Bertaux’s career includes nearly 20 years at Trex Company, where he advanced from senior director of finance to Interim president of Trex Commercial Products, helping grow revenue from $100 million to $900 million. He also served as vice president of finance at von Drehle Corp. during its 2022 acquisition by Marcal Paper and as CFO at Brown Haven Homes.
Bertaux holds a Bachelor of Science degree in finance and accounting from Frostburg State University, an MBA from the University of Maryland and is a CPA and CTP. His financial management and strategic leadership benefit the Rockland Community College Foundation Board, supporting its mission to expand educational access.
Crismelly Morales is an immigration and family law attorney and founder of the Law Office of Crismelly Morales PC in New City, New York. An alumna of RCC, she earned her A.A.S. in paralegal studies before completing her B.A. at SUNY Purchase and J.D. at New York Law School. Morales later returned to RCC as an adjunct professor and serves on the Legal Studies Program Advisory Committee and was the Class of 2025 commencement speaker at RCC’s 65th Commencement Ceremony. She is active in the legal community and was admitted to practice in New York, New Jersey, and before the Second and Third Circuit Courts of Appeals.
Gemini Watanabe is the owner of Summit Street Design, a kitchen and bath design firm based in Nyack, New York that she started 23 years ago. She earned degrees from Smith College and the Culinary Institute of America. A resident of Rockland County for 29 years, she and her husband raised two sons in Nyack. She previously served on the village of Nyack Architectural Review Board, and her recent empty-nester status has given her more time to volunteer with local organizations such as Angel Nyack, Meals on Wheels, and the Rockland County YMCA.
“Each of our new board members brings unique strengths and together they represent an extraordinary depth of experience, innovation, and community connection. Their leadership will play a vital role in advancing the foundation’s mission and supporting the continued success of Rockland Community College,” said Walter Goldman, chair of the RCC Foundation.
“We are thrilled to welcome these outstanding leaders to the RCC Foundation Board,” said Karen Lewis, executive director of development at Rockland Community College. “Their diverse perspectives, professional expertise and passion for student success will help us strengthen our impact across the region.”
Board Vice Chair Howard Hellman said, “The continued growth and vitality of RCC depend on strong leadership and meaningful community partnerships. Our new board members will be instrumental in elevating the foundation’s work and broadening our reach.”
Since 1981, the Rockland Community College Foundation has dedicated itself to transforming lives by increasing access to quality education and supporting students, faculty and staff.
Through strategic fundraising, community collaborations and philanthropic initiatives, it offers vital scholarships, emergency aid and program funding to foster student success.
