Legal Aid Society of Northeastern New York Announces Expanded Management Team
The expanded management team leads the next chapter
ALBANY, N.Y. (July 18, 2024) — The Legal Aid Society of Northeastern New York (LASNNY) has acquired three new members of their Executive Management Team since the start of the year, including Samantha Ashline, CPA, Director of Finance and Accounting; Tammy Gaynor, Director of Development and Communications; and Dan Merkt, Director of Operations.
As Director of Finance and Accounting, Samantha is responsible for overseeing LASNNY’s day-to-day accounting operations including operational accounting, financial accounting, internal auditing and managing the Finance Department team. Previously, Samantha was the Controller at the Commission on Economic Opportunity and has over 15 years of experience in not-for-profit accounting, auditing, management, and grant administration. She earned her CPA license while working in public accounting in the health care/tax-exempt practice at The Bonadio Group in Albany. Samantha received both her Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in accounting from the University at Albany.
Tammy is responsible for overseeing LASNNY’s development and communications efforts — fundraising, including the Justice for All law firm giving campaign, stewardship, external communications, special events, social media and fostering relationships with LASNNY’s many community partners. She has over 25 years’ experience in event planning, fundraising and nonprofit and higher education advancement. Previously, Tammy was the Organizational Advancement Manager at Troy Rehabilitation and Improvement Program (TRIP), a housing organization, and Director of Alumni Relations and Special Events at Albany Law School. She received her Bachelor of Arts from the State University of New York at Potsdam.
In the newly created position of Director of Operations, Dan is responsible for working with leaders to evaluate and optimize day-to-day operations at LASNNY. In addition, he plays a leading role in helping to improve and maintain an efficient training and project management structure. Dan brings over 20 years of nonprofit experience in both operations and marketing. marketing. Before joining LASNNY, Dan spent 14 years with Excelsior University first as their Director of Enrollment Operations then Director of Enterprise Operations. Dan received his bachelor’s degree from Western New England University.
“Our three newest team members will help catapult us into the next chapter of LASNNY. They all bring a wealth of knowledge to their fields and a deep commitment to LASNNY’s mission to close the access to justice gap,” said Nic Rangel, Esq., executive director of LASNNY. “Samantha’s rich experience with nonprofit regulatory compliance, financial accounting, and budget management will build a strong and lasting foundation for stable financial growth. Tammy’s deep roots within the legal community and proven track record in development and advancement will amplify the organization’s work to mobilize support for civil legal services. Dan’s data-driven strategies and technological fluency will enhance the efficacy of our operational management and elevate our ability to serve our clients.”
Samantha, Tammy and Dan join four long-serving Executive Management Team staff including Deputy Directors Wendy Wahlberg and Erica Zimny; Director of Advocacy and Race Equity, Marlene Morales; and Director of Facilities, Marshall Coulter.
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The Legal Aid Society of Northeastern New York (LASNNY) fights for fairness, dignity, and justice for those living in poverty and for a society that is inclusive and equitable for all. Their mission is to transform lives, build community, and empower people by using the law to address individual and systemic wrongs and inequities. LASNNY has six regional offices in Albany, Amsterdam, Canton, Gloversville, Plattsburgh and Saratoga Springs; and serves 16 counties in Northeastern New York and the St. Regis Mohawk/Akwesasne Reservation.
