Collaboration, Innovation, Efficiency, Excellence & Leadership
- Mike Benischek: Mike Benischek joined the Dutchess BOCES communications team in February 2024 after spending 20 years covering the mid-Hudson Valley as a reporter, columnist and editor for the Poughkeepsie Journal. Most recently, Benischek served as the organization’s news director for more than three years. A lifelong Hudson Valley resident and Marist College graduate, Benischek’s expertise ranges from reporting and page design to understanding online engagement and how to target specific audiences through varying mediums and messaging style.
- Desiree Gagon: A graphic designer with 25 years of experience, Gagnon has designed everything from annual reports, brochures, logos and posters to indoor/outdoor signage and wearables. She is skilled at creating digital assets for online use and has experience in website management/design, as well as video production. She also has more than a dozen years experience decorating and staging large events. She has been with the department since 2011.
- Carol Mackin-O’Leary: With more than 20 years experience in art direction, graphic design and photography, Mackin-O’Leary has shared those skills through Dutchess BOCES Communications Office since 2006. She has expertise in content creation, creative design, social media and marketing.
- Dan Pietrafesa: A writer and editor with more than 35 years of experience, Pietrafesa joined the Dutchess BOCES communications team in November 2022. Prior to coming to Dutchess BOCES, he was reporter for seven years at Catholic New York, the largest Catholic newspaper in North America, where he won writing awards and managed a sports blog for the Archdiocese of New York. Before his work for the archdiocese, he worked with the Poughkeepsie Journal sports department for over 25 years, serving in various roles in sports and the newsroom, and winning awards for his writing and work as a section editor.
- Elisa Silverio: After more than a decade working in a local school helping immigrant families communicate and assimilate, Silverio joined Dutchess BOCES' communications team in January 2022. A creative innovator, branding, social media strategist and web manager/designer, Silverio brings years of expertise in creating impactful visual print and digital brand solutions for clients across numerous industries. She is multilingual (English, Spanish, and Portuguese) and helps our clients reach more members of their communities.
- Daniel Zuckerman: As a news reporter, Zuckerman covered everything from local government to arts and culture, as well as taking pictures at varied events and meetings. He has also has experience as a radio and podcast host interviewing actors, authors, chefs and more. He joined BOCES in June 2020, as a part time Public Information Officer, before being given full time status in July 2023.