Board of Directors
President
Stacy Miller
Merit Apprenticeship Alliance
Stacy Miller is a dedicated training professional and founding member of NAWIC CNY with a passion for helping others grow through education, opportunity, and support. As Director of Training for Merit Apprenticeship Alliance, Stacy oversees apprenticeship-related instruction, instructor development, compliance, training documentation, and partnerships with employers and community organizations.
She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice Administration from Columbia College and is an NCCER Program Manager. Stacy was named a CNY Business Journal 40 Under Forty recipient in 2023 and received the NAWIC Buffalo-Niagara Scholarship to attend the Northeast Region Fall Conference in 2024.
Known as a straightforward, “got your back” leader, Stacy is committed to strengthening the construction industry by expanding access to training, supporting women in construction, and helping build the next generation of skilled professionals.
Treasurer
Christine O'Dell
Structural Associates, Inc.
Christine is a CPA and has worked in accounting for over 27 years. She worked in public accounting at Firley, Moran, Freer & Eassa for 23 years. During her time at FMFE, Christine performed financial statement audits and reviews for several construction clients. In 2022, Christine accepted the role of Controller at one of her long-time clients, Structural Associates, Inc.
Christine is a chartering member of NAWIC CNY and is currently the Chair of the Finance Committee and a member of the Scholarship Committee.
Christine is also the Treasurer of Great Swamp Conservancy, Inc. and Canastota Dollars for Scholars.
Corresponding Secretary
Liz Christman
Merit Apprenticeship Alliance
Liz Christman is the Engagement Coordinator for Merit Apprenticeship Alliance, supporting apprenticeship and workforce development programs across New York State. She is passionate about creating pathways into the skilled trades and advocating for increased opportunities for women in construction.
Outside of work, Liz enjoys spending time with her family, cheering on her children in their pursuits, and making memories with her dog, Benny. She also appreciates the automotive world and the strong sense of community that can be found both in the trades and beyond. Liz is honored to serve on the NAWIC board and support its mission of empowering women in construction.
Board Director
Cynthia Hernandez
VIP Structures
Cynthia Hernandez is Chief People Strategist at VIP Structures, a women-owned integrated design-build firm based in Syracuse, New York, providing architecture, construction, development, and technology services. In her role, she leads enterprise-wide people strategy across multiple affiliated companies, with a focus on employment law, compensation design, organizational development and safety and compliance in the construction industry. She serves as a Director on the Board of the NAWIC Central New York Chapter, advancing leadership and career opportunities for women in construction, and as a Board Director for the Alzheimer’s Association Central New York Chapter, supporting families and communities impacted by dementia.
Board Director
LaTerese Matthews
Van Dyke Norris Cleaning
LaTerese R. Matthews is the Founder and President/CEO of Van Dyke Norris Cleaning Services, LLC, a certified Woman-Owned and Minority-Owned Business Enterprise based in Syracuse, New York. Since founding the company in 2019, she has grown the business from a small startup into a thriving commercial cleaning company serving office, medical, industrial, educational, and post-construction clients throughout Central New York.
Under her leadership, Van Dyke Norris Cleaning Services has earned a reputation for quality, reliability, and exceptional customer service, receiving the 2024 Business of the Year Award. LaTerese is passionate about creating employment opportunities, mentoring aspiring entrepreneurs, and advocating for the growth and success of women-owned businesses.
As an active member of NAWIC Greater Central New York Chapter #401, LaTerese serves on the Strategic Planning Committee and is committed to supporting and empowering women in construction and related industries. She is also a graduate of the SBA THRIVE Emerging Leaders Program and holds multiple industry certifications focused on leadership, safety, and business development.
LaTerese believes that strong relationships, continuous learning, and community engagement are the foundation of lasting success and is proud to contribute to the advancement of women in construction throughout Central New York.
