Peconic Landing’s leadership maintains an environment that cultivates success.
Our overall structure of management meetings, goal setting, reviews and ongoing communication provides the entire team with the foundation needed to consistently deliver excellence. Achieving and sustaining success is a collaborative endeavor at Peconic Landing. Our tradition of exceptional performance is upheld by the collective efforts of the Board of Trustees, management, members and team members. Decisions are based on the best interests of the members, and that commitment has continued to be evident as our community has evolved into a preeminent Life Plan Community.
Governance
Peconic Landing’s Sponsor Board includes 14 individuals who provide governance for the community. The Sponsor Board is responsible for ensuring the fiduciary integrity of the organization and the performance of services outlined in the contractual agreement between Peconic Landing and members of the Cooperative Association.
Members of Peconic Landing are granted membership in the Cooperative, a corporation, through the community’s distinctive equity program. The Housing Association Cooperative Board has seven members – four appointed by board members and three elected by members of the community.
As a Life Plan Community providing long-term care, Peconic Landing is subject to all the laws and regulations set forth by the New York State Department of Health in association with the New York State Continuing Care Retirement Community Council. The cooperative ownership aspect of the community is governed through the New York State Attorney General’s Office while the long-term care component of the Lifecare contract is overseen by the New York State Department of Financial Services, which approves monthly service fees and purchase prices.
Peconic Landing is also a member of LeadingAge (formerly AAHSA) and LeadingAge New York (formerly NYAHSA).
Board of Trustees
Paul V. May
Chair
Paul V. May was elected as Chair in November of 2020.
Paul V. May is an accomplished financial services attorney with national and international expertise in compliance risk assessment, fraud detection and prevention, and regulatory compliance, among other specialties. He currently serves as Securities and Business Advisory Counsel for the financial services law firm Pastore & Dailey, LLC. He was appointed to Peconic Landing’s Board of Trustees in 2018 and has served as a valued member of the nonprofit’s Board Finance Committee.
Mr. May has a lasting history with Peconic Landing, helping to incorporate Peconic Landing at Southold Inc. more than 20 years ago. His father, John M. May served as Chair of the Peconic Landing Board for 12 years, until his passing in 2015.
Mr. May is a graduate of Brooklyn Law School and the College of the Holy Cross, where he met his wife, Peggy May, with whom he shares three children and six grandchildren. He is a founding board member of the Holy Cross Lawyers Association and recently completed his term as Board Chair of New Yorkers Against Gun Violence.
Paul Connor
Vice Chair
Paul Connor is a healthcare executive with almost 30 years of progressive responsibility in hospital and health systems management, including 18 years as a CEO.
Paul Connor is skilled and experienced in program management, reimbursement maximization, managed care and resource development. He has served as Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Nassau-Suffolk Hospital Council (NSHC), the association that represents Long Island’s 24 not-for-profit and public hospitals. He also served on the board of the East End Health Alliance, the parent organization of Long Island’s three East End hospitals who advocated for a stronger bargaining position in negotiations with insurance providers and managed care companies.
Mr. Connor has a bachelor’s degree in Marine Biology and a master’s degree in Health Care Administration. He has been President/CEO of Eastern Long Island Hospital in Greenport since 1999.
Edward Wellington Webb II (Secretary)
Retired, Senior Vice President American Heart Association
Rosamond Phelps Baiz
President, The Old Field Vineyards Southold, New York
Rebecca Corning Chapman
Senior Philanthropy Advisor LongHouse Reserve
Robert T. Goldman
Capital Cities / ABC; formerly with American Broadcasting Companies, Inc.
Carol W. Hance
Managing Director Emeritus, LongueVue Capital
Jim Lubin
Founder and CEO, Beacon Hill Private Wealth Management
Thomas J. McCarthy
President, Thomas J. McCarthy Real Estate, Inc. Southold, New York
Eileen T. McGuire
Retired, AIG Compliance & Customer Experience
Sandra K. Novick
Strategic Marketing Consultant, Banking. Peconic Landing Board Chair 2016 – 2019
Fred Pollert
Retired, Director of Suffolk County Legislature’s Budget Review Office, Deputy County Executive for Finance and Management
Donald T. Russo
Retired, National Catholic Education Assn. American Academy of Religion
Richard W. Vandenburgh
Founder of Greenport Harbor Brewing Company, Real Estate Attorney
Emeritus Members
Luke M. Babcock
Jerry J. Callis, DVM
Tom Doolan
Edgar Goodale
John Halsey
Alice J. Hussie
Lisa Israel
Reverend Peter M. Larsen
Raymond G. Wesnofske
Gregory Ferraris
Peconic Landing recognizes the tremendous legacy of the late William G. Thompson, Peconic Landing’s founder, and John M. May, longtime chairman of the board.
Management Team
Our management team is committed to maintaining Peconic Landing’s legacy of exceeding members’ expectations.
Robert J. Syron
President & CEO
“We’re motivated to succeed by a results-oriented philosophy founded on empowerment. The Peconic Landing team provides members with peace of mind and the opportunity to learn and grow. Our members are empowered to explore their interests and passions to the fullest to make the most of their successful aging journey.”
Robert J. Syron has been a catalyst for Peconic Landing’s rapid evolution into a preeminent lifecare retirement community. Responsible for overseeing the community’s operations and assets, he also serves 400+ members and 200+ employees. Since taking the helm in 2003, Mr. Syron has cultivated excellence by fostering a team-oriented culture, implementing long-range strategic goals and improving employee and member satisfaction.
Mr. Syron has 30+ years of management experience and degrees in Health Science & Public Administration and Healthcare Management. He is a recipient of the James W. Sanderson Memorial Award for Leadership in Long-Term Care from Leading Age NY. In addition, Mr. Syron also earned his Certified Aging Services Professional (CASP) certification through the Coalition for Leadership in Aging Services and the University of North Texas, an honor held by approximately 2,000 individuals in the country.
Gregory J. Garrett
Chief Operating Officer
“Our mission is about achieving excellence to make a difference in the lives of our members. We encourage them on their path to successful aging, and are here to support them along the way.”
Gregory J. Garrett joined Peconic Landing in 2006 and became Executive Vice President/Administrator of Health Services in 2009.
Mr. Garrett is a licensed NYS Nursing Home Administrator, Certified Aging Services Professional, Certified Nursing Home Administrator and a member of the American College of Health Care Administrators. He holds a master’s in Health Service Administration and a B.A. in Economics. He was awarded the Thomas Clarke Young Administrator of the Year Award in 2009 by LeadingAge NY. Professional affiliations include: Intercounty Health Care Facilities, LeadingAge and LeadingAge NY. In 2019, Mr. Garrett was promoted to Chief Operating Officer.
Patricia Lutzky
Senior Vice President of Independent Living
“I don’t think of what I do as a job. I think of it as a mission. At Peconic Landing, we don’t just want to do things well; we strive for excellence – to be innovative and really make a difference. Through innovation, we can help our members to age successfully.”
Patricia Lutzky has served Peconic Landing since its inception in 1997 and became Vice President of Member Services in 2008. Prior to that, she served as Director of Member Services.
Ms. Lutzky has over 30 years of management experience in the not-for-profit community. She holds a master’s in Business Administration, a B.A. in English and Literature and an AAS in Liberal Arts. In 2014, she received the Professional of the Year Award from LeadingAge New York. In 2007, she earned her Certified Aging Services Professional (CASP) certification through the Coalition for Leadership in Aging Services and the University of North Texas, an honor held by approximately 2,000 individuals in the country. She is currently enrolled in the New York Institute of Art and Design’s Interior Design program, working towards certification. Ms. Lutzky was instrumental in renovating several areas of the community during our most recent expansion, including residential living, assisted living, and our marketing show houses.
Lisa Quinn
Chief Financial Officer
“Working at Peconic Landing means being part of an environment where we are always encouraging each other to be a better version of ourselves. I feel so fortunate to work in a place that brings such excellence to our members as well as the greater community.”
Lisa Quinn joined Peconic Landing in 2002. Starting as an accountant, she was later promoted, first to Assistant Controller, and later to Controller. During this time, she was integral in completing two bond financings and the expansion project. Ms. Quinn was named Director of Finance for Peconic Landing in 2018.
Prior to joining Peconic Landing, Ms. Quinn worked in public accounting specializing in financial reporting and auditing for clients in the medical, legal, automotive, and real estate industries for 10 years in Manhattan.
She received a BBA in Accounting from Adelphi University and an MBA in Finance from Wagner College.
Jane Willsey
Vice President of Human Resources
“We have a simple philosophy at Peconic Landing: ‘A Happy Team Makes Happy Members.’ It is rewarding to see our staff embracing our members and touching their lives so positively on a daily basis. It is also encouraging to witness our members mentoring our employees, and helping them to grow.”
Jane Willsey brings a wealth of experience to Peconic Landing. Jane has worked for the past twenty years as a Director of Human Resources, focusing on healthcare and the unique issues that pertain to it. Jane holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Organizational Management. When Jane refined her focus to Human Resource and Healthcare, she continued her education at St. Josephs College and obtained a Human Resource certification. Jane has been a member of The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) for over twenty years and has earned numerous distinctions within the Human Resources community. She is known for her fairness and thoughtful insights into employee relations.
Darryl Volinski
Vice President of Environmental Services
“We know that little things can make a big difference in the lives of our members. Through constant interaction, we listen to and learn about what really matters to them. That ongoing process motivates us to keep striving to be better and help our members to age successfully.”
Darryl Volinski was named Director of Environmental Services at Peconic Landing in 2006.
Mr. Volinski has an extensive managerial background in construction and maintenance, including 13 years as director of operations with Belvedere Property Management (Robins Island Preserve). A former Suffolk County police officer, he’s also been an exemplary 33-year member of the Greenport Fire Department and Rescue Squad EMT, where he is currently an Officer of Relief for the Engine Hose Company. He has served terms as chief and fire warden as well.
Diane Radigan
Vice President of Member Services
“My role allows me to work closely with members to ensure their growth and happiness with every aspect of life at Peconic Landing. Our community brings so many opportunities to our members, and we will continue to offer new and innovate programming to help them age successfully.”
Diane Radigan has served as Member Services Director since 2014, providing oversight and support in daily departmental operations. The Member Services team ensures members are engaged in lifestyle opportunities for growth and enjoyment, the delivery of services, and promoting member satisfaction. In her role, Ms. Radigan is also responsible for Peconic Landing’s Social Accountability program and Development initiatives.
Ms. Radigan graduated with honors from the Wallace E. Carroll School of Management at Boston College with a B.S. in Business. In 2013 she earned Advanced Certification from Molloy College for Fundraising and Development.
Jennifer Drofenik, LNHA
Director of Health Services
“Jennifer has a love for learning, and enjoys sharing her knowledge with future leaders in the industry.”
Jennifer has worked in long term care since 2011, when she interned at Peconic Landing as part of her undergraduate studies. Upon finding her passion for the industry, Jennifer obtained her Master’s Degree in Health Care Administration. She is a Licensed Nursing Home Administrator, a Certified Dementia Practitioner and a member of the American College of Health Care Administrators. Jennifer is currently the Assistant Administrator of Skilled Nursing and the Administrator of Assisted Living. In these roles, she oversees the nursing home, short term rehabilitation, assisted living and memory support. She also manages Peconic Landing’s Quality Assurance program.
Jennifer is committed to advocating for seniors, particularly those living with dementia. She is a board member of the Long Island Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association and has participated on the committee for the Suffolk County Walk to End Alzheimer’s since its inception. Jennifer has been a member of the Leading Age New York Assisted Living Cabinet since 2018 and recently accepted a position as Vice President of the Cabinet.
Jennifer has a love for learning, and enjoys sharing her knowledge with future leaders in the industry. She is graduate of Leading Age’s IGNITE Leadership Academy and will be a coach for the next round of Leadership Academy students in 2022. In 2019, she adapted the concept of the Leadership Academy to provide similar training to team members at Peconic Landing. The year-long, voluntary program is open to all team members and is geared towards developing growth in their personal and professional lives.
Dr. Nathanael Desire DO, CMD
Medical Director
“I’m excited to be a part of the Peconic Landing family and to help make a positive impact in the lives of those whom we serve.”
Dr. Desire has recently been named as Peconic Landing’s Medical Director. He oversees individual patient care in addition to the organization’s overall medical program and acts as the key leader in providing innovative and person-centered care options for all Peconic Landing members.
Dr. Desire is the founding Physician of NAD Medical Services, a Medical Practice specializing in Primary Care, and Geriatric Medical Consultation located in the heart of Shelter Island. He has been in practice for over 15 years and has gained the trust and loyalty of thousands. His mild-mannered demeanor and love for sports are topped only by his love for healing.
After receiving his degree in Osteopathic Medicine from the College of Old Westbury in 1998, he went on to continue his post-graduate training and later graduating from Stony Brook University Hospital. Completing his Internal Medicine and Pediatric Residency in 2003, Dr. Desire obtained his Board Certification in Internal Medicine and is now in private Practice on Shelter Island. He is an attending physician currently at Brookhaven Memorial Hospital and a Clinical Instructor at Stony Brook University Hospital.
Housing Association Cooperative Board
The Peconic Landing Housing Association Cooperative Board is comprised of seven persons: four assigned by the Sponsor Board and three elected by members at an annual meeting of the Cooperative. Unlike typical cooperatives, the Peconic Landing Housing Association cooperative works closely with management on behalf of members to monitor the implementation of policies and operations for which management is responsible. The essential functions of the member representatives are to:
- Advocate on behalf of members and respond to their concerns and questions.
- Bring issues to the attention of departmental directors or supervisors, as applicable, and follow up until solutions are reached.
- Serve as liaison member of at least one major committee. Ensure committees operate according to bylaws and represent the interest of the community.
- Meet weekly with CEO and Senior Vice President of Independent Living.
- Attend Peconic Landing Housing Association Cooperative Board meetings.
- Attend Peconic Landing at Southold, Inc. Sponsor Board meetings.
- Serve on Sponsor Board committees as assigned.
- Provide suggestions, ideas and member perspective to management on pending policies, plans, general business decisions and other matters as required.
- Collaborate with fellow elected member representatives to the co-op board to create and maintain formal channels of communication with the membership.
