Oswego Health Announces New Board Leadership and Welcomes Two New Members to Its Board of Directors
Contact: Jamie Leszczynski
Oswego Health, an independent, nonprofit healthcare system serving Central New York, is pleased to announce new leadership appointments and the addition of two new members to its Board of Directors, following its annual board meeting held on June 23, 2025.
The Board unanimously appointed Ron Tascarella as Treasurer and Katie Toomey as Secretary, each serving through June 30, 2026. The system also welcomed John D. Trimble, PE, LEED AP, and Rachael Ann Dator, Esq., as new board members, each beginning a two-year term through June 30, 2027.
“As a locally governed healthcare system, Oswego Health has the distinct advantage of having every strategic decision—both operational and financial—made right here by members of our community,” said Michael C. Backus, President & CEO of Oswego Health. “Our board continues to reflect the diversity, expertise, and commitment of Central New York. The experience these new and continuing members bring is invaluable as we continue our work to transform local healthcare.”
Oswego Health has long benefited from diverse board representation across sectors, including finance, healthcare, higher education, economic development, and local business ownership. The latest appointments reinforce that legacy with deep regional roots and proven leadership.
Backus adds, “I also want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to our departing board members, Ellen Holst and Bill Clark, both of whom are long-standing board members and former chairs. Their leadership, dedication, and unwavering support helped lay the foundation for the future of Oswego Health. I’d also like to acknowledge Mark Slayton for his years of service as Treasurer. We’re grateful that Mark will continue serving on the board, and we look forward to his continued contributions.”
New Leadership Appointments
Ron Tascarella, the newly appointed Treasurer, brings over 45 years of experience in banking, specializing in commercial lending and credit administration. Recently retired as Executive Vice President and Chief Banking Officer at Pathfinder Bank, Tascarella is a graduate of SUNY Oswego and an active community leader, also serving as President of the Red House Board of Directors and Treasurer of the Gifford Foundation.
Katie Toomey, the newly appointed Secretary, is the President and Owner of Burt Street Communications & Consulting, bringing expertise in public relations, government affairs, and business development. Her past roles include Chief Marketing Officer at Bond, Schoeneck & King, Vice President of Membership at CenterState CEO, and Executive Director of the Greater Oswego-Fulton Chamber of Commerce. Toomey also serves as President of the Oswego Health Foundation.
New Board Members
John D. Trimble, PE, LEED AP, recently retired as President, CEO, and Chairperson of C&S Companies, a 500+ person engineering and construction firm. With over 37 years of experience, Trimble has led major infrastructure and facility projects across both the public and private sectors. A Clarkson University graduate and licensed professional engineer, Trimble brings deep expertise in operations, engineering, and design-build project management.
Rachael Ann Dator, Esq., currently serves as Administrator of the Oswego County Assigned Counsel Program, overseeing grant funding, budgeting, and program operations. With over a decade of legal experience, Dator has served as an Assistant District Attorney, Court Attorney, and legal counsel to municipalities and social services organizations. A dedicated local leader, she also serves on the Oswego Health Foundation Board of Directors.
Current Oswego Health Board of Directors
The 2025–26 Oswego Health Board of Directors includes: Ed Alberts, Past-Chair; Atom Avery; Michael C. Backus, President & CEO; Timothy R. Barnhart; Peter Cullinan, Vice-Chair; Rachael Ann Dator; Dan E. Dorsey, Jr.; Lynne Eggert; Victoria Furlong, Chair; Adam Gagas; Paloma Sarkar; Wajeeh Sana, MD, Chief Medical Officer; Mark Slayton; Ron Tascarella, Treasurer; Katie Toomey, Secretary; John D. Trimble; and Scott Van Gorder, DO.
As a 144-year-old independent nonprofit healthcare system, Oswego Health remains steadfast in its mission to provide accessible, high-quality, and compassionate care. With strong local leadership at the helm, the organization is well-positioned to continue addressing the evolving healthcare needs of the region.