The 2025-2026 Officers elected at our 2025 Annual meeting are as follows:
President Amanda Detschner, MMC/RMC/CMFO-Village of Barker
1st Vice President Kerri Harrington, RMC-City of Oneonta
2nd Vice President Corine Bump, RMC-Village of Cuba
Director Liz Gaynor, MMC/RMC/CMFO-Village of Sands Point
Director Anthony Costantini-Village of Hastings-on-Hudson
Secretary Megan Bay, CMC/RMC/CMFO-Village of Naples
Treasurer Martina McClinton-Village of Rhinebeck
Immediate Past President Elizabeth Dreaper, RMC-Village of Dobbs Ferry
Presidents Remarks: October 10, 2025
I wanted to take time to recognize my colleagues during Municipal Clerks Week. Clerks are one of the most under recognized professionals and are typically staffed by humble civil servants that are too busy keeping everyone organized to stop and explain how they do it. In fact, clerks make all aspects of local government look effortless because their effort is relentless, they constantly learn through participating in trainings and exude a passion for excellence. Clerks’ week celebrates the clerk profession internationally and provides the unique opportunity to promote yourself, your department and your staff. It might go against the very nature of your being to brag about yourselves, but it’s important that people understand what clerks do and why they are vital part of local government. At times the role of clerk can be rewarding, and some might even say fulfilling, and other times is filled with contention, self-doubt and under appreciation. With that being said, I’d like to encourage and recognize all clerks because without your unwavering dedication, boundless expertise and unparalleled professionalism our communities would be lost. Let your passion be a beacon of light and keep up the amazing work you do. As NYSACVC President I am proud of you, proud of the services you provide, proud of the improvements you implement and proud of you for being the heartbeat of your local government. And although the world outside may never see the full picture, you live it—one phone call, one signature, on resident at a time.
Happy Municipal Clerks Week and a HUGE thank you for all you do!
Respectfully,
Amanda M. Detschner, CMC/RMC/CMFO
NYSACVC President
Annual Meeting President's Speech
September 18, 2025
It is a true honor to stand before you today at the Annual Meeting of the New York State Municipal Clerks Association. I want to begin by expressing my deepest gratitude to the membership for the work you all do every day, often behind the scenes, ensuring that our communities run smoothly, efficiently, and with integrity. To the Executive Committee: I want to express my immense appreciation for the hard work and dedication you pour into our association. Your efforts have helped our association grow and adapt to what it is today. I am honored to continue our journey with them by my side.
As municipal clerks, not only are we the backbone of local government, we are also the silent forces behind the smooth operation of our cities and villages. We are the stewards of democracy at the most direct level, handling everything from elections and public records to vital documents and meeting minutes. Each task we undertake may seem small on its own, but collectively, we are safeguarding the processes that keep our communities functioning. Each day we work to make our communities better, and every year, we come together to strengthen the foundation of our work.
My first FTS was here in Lake Placid in 2012, just 3 months after being hired. I remember then I was in awe of the entire conference. I met many friendly faces, learned vast amounts of new information and learned quickly that networking was just as important as the classes themselves. Attending my first NYSACVC annual meeting was inspiring, looking at the dais, I set the goal that I one day would serve on the executive committee. Just 7 years later, to my surprise, I was asked if I’d be willing to serve. After careful discussions with my mayor and family, I gladly accepted. This marked the beginning of accomplishing a goal that I set for myself many years prior, but it was more than accomplishing a goal, it was a reminder that no matter where we are in our professional journey, we must continue to grow, adapt and envision new possibilities- not just for ourselves, but for our members and the communities we serve.
When I look back over the past year, I am filled with immense pride for all that we’ve accomplished together. The challenges of recent years—whether related to the ongoing evolution of technology, the changing landscape of public expectations, or the continued demands of fiscal responsibility—have not slowed us down. In fact, they’ve only made us more adaptable, more resourceful, and more committed to finding innovative solutions that better serve our communities. NYSACVC was finally able to launch the new website in late December, and it has quickly proven to be a worthwhile investment.
Our ability to adapt in these changing times is a testament to the strength and resilience of this association. Our shared commitment to ongoing education and training has enabled us to remain leaders in the public sector. I am proud of all the ways we’ve come together to support one another.
But we also know that the success we’ve experienced wouldn’t be possible without each of you. It is your passion, your dedication, and your tireless work that drives our success. Whether you’ve been a part of this association for many years or are new to our profession, your contributions are invaluable, and I thank each and every one of you for your unwavering commitment to excellence in public service.
While we face challenges, we also have much to celebrate. This year, we’ve made significant strides in professional development, with many of our members taking part in the new IIMC Education Program and pursuing RMC certification. We’ve expanded our networking opportunities, building stronger relationships with colleagues from across the state. And we’ve continued to enhance our association’s resources, ensuring that every member has the support and guidance they need to succeed in their roles.
Moreover, our commitment to fostering a sense of community and collaboration has never been stronger. In a time when many of us are dealing with heightened demands in our municipalities, the value of our shared experiences and knowledge cannot be overstated. The power of this association lies not just in the formal programs we offer, but in the informal connections we’ve built—connections that help us solve problems, share best practices, and support each other in the face of any challenge. We must remain united in our efforts to elevate the profession of city and Village Clerks across New York State.
Before I conclude, I want to take a moment to express my sincere gratitude to each of you for the work you do and the dedication you bring to your communities. Whether you are handling day-to-day operations, navigating legislative changes, or fostering positive relationships with your local officials, you are all making a difference. And it is because of you that our association continues to thrive.
Thank you for your trust in me as President. I am excited about the future of our association, and I am confident that, together, we will continue to achieve great things. Here’s to another year of growth, collaboration, and success!
Thank you.
~NYSACVC President Amanda M. Detschner, MMC/RMC/CMFO