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Nicole DeSousa to succeed retiring Erin Brennan as leader of CUFSD Business Office

Nicole DeSousa, Assistant Superintendent for Business

Nicole DeSousa has officially joined the Chester Union Free School District as Assistant Superintendent for Business, succeeding retiring Business Official Erin Brennan, who began his tenure with the district in 1997. Mr. Brennan’s retirement was formally recognized at the Board of Education meetings on September 11 and October 9, with his retirement date set for November 1, 2024.

The Board of Education and district administration have been working to ensure a seamless transition in leadership. Since her appointment in September, Ms. DeSousa has been collaborating closely with Mr. Brennan, the Business Office team, the superintendent, and other district leaders to continue the strong fiscal management and budgeting practices that have been the hallmarks of Mr. Brennan’s tenure in Chester.   

“We are confident that Ms. DeSousa will bring the same dedication and excellence in financial leadership that our community values,” said Superintendent Catherine O'Hara. “Her collaboration with Mr. Brennan and the Business Office team have ensured a smooth transition, maintaining the district’s high standards for fiscal management in support of our educational mission and district goals."

Ms. DeSousa was selected after an extensive interview process that included a number of highly qualified candidates.  Her credentials include a New York State School District Business Leader Certificate of Advanced Study, a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Mount Saint Mary College, and a Master’s in Business Administration from The College of Saint Rose. She has excelled in financial oversight, budget development, and operational leadership in every district she has served.

“I am excited to begin my journey here at Chester Union Free School District and am grateful for the warm welcome I’ve received from the community,” said Ms. DeSousa. “While I bring years of experience with me, I recognize the big shoes I have to fill following Mr. Brennan’s many accomplishments. With the audit presented at the recent board meeting, it’s clear that he’s leaving the district in a strong fiscal position, which provides a great foundation for me to build upon with our team. I look forward to working with the Board, administration, and community to continue achieving great things here in Chester.”

Board of Education President Kim DiCurcio expressed gratitude for Mr. Brennan's long-standing service and confidence in Ms. DeSousa’s ability to lead the district’s financial future. "The Board deeply appreciates Mr. Brennan's outstanding service and looks forward to working with Ms. DeSousa as she steps into this important role. We’re confident the transition will be smooth and the district’s financial health will remain strong under her leadership."

Mr. Brennan expressed his gratitude during the October 9 Board of Education meeting, reflecting on his long career with the district. “Working with my 27th Board of Education here in Chester and my seventh Superintendent,” said Mr. Brennan “it’s been great staff, great colleagues, great friends,” He shared his appreciation for the many opportunities and experiences gained during his tenure, thanking everyone he has worked with and the community for their support.


Photo: Nicole DeSousa, Assistant Superintendent for Business

Nicole DeSousa, Asst. Superintendent for Business, CUFSD

 

Teachers reading materials.

Chester Union Free School District teachers attended a professional development (PD) session on October 31. PD sessions keep teachers informed and equipped when it comes to the latest topics, tools and techniques in education. PD is an investment in our educators, but its biggest return on investment is felt in the positive educational outcomes they lead to for Chester students. PD sessions help us keep our highly qualified and dedicated faculty ready to deliver the most innovative, data-driven and career-connected learning experiences available, which aligns perfectly with the second of our district goals for the 2024-25 school year.

Read More about Teachers at Chester Union Free School District attended an informative professional development session