- ELECTIONS 2023 -

As stated in our mission, we are directed to "continue the next step" in our democratic process. In accordance with our BY LAWS - Section 5.2, directors to the board are elected for three (3) year terms. We believe the most effective way to have a strong board presence is to have the elections on a three-year cycle.

Thank you for supporting the success of our co-op!

- MEET THE CANDIDATES -

My wife Peg and I have lived in Williamsville for 20+ years after moving here from Boston, MA. We are extremely excited at the prospect of having a Member-Owned Food Co-Op here in Williamsville!

As Founder of BrightWebConsulting, I draw on 20 years of experience, building and scaling tech companies. I have started 7 companies over the last 20 years, with 3 exits. My focus is Ad-Tech, anything in and around buying or selling online advertising. I also have deep experience selling private label products via eCommerce/Amazon. I work with clients across the country on a wide variety of digital strategy engagements. From Start-Ups to Fortune 500 companies.

I have enjoyed working on moving the Co-Op forward over the last 2 years and excited to see our vision come to life! We have an amazing board that is dedicated to seeing this new community asset come to life!

Jon Carmen - Current Board Vice President - Board Candidate

D. Ryan Duquette - Board Candidate

I am a boomerang Western New Yorker, I was born a raised in Williamsville, attended Williamsville South then Canisius College, and moved to the NYC area after I graduated. I met my wife Katie and moved back home in 2012. We have two young boys who attend Maple West Elementary.

We love cooking and are excited about the Co-Op Market bringing fresh locally grown ingredients to our community. In my professional life, I have worked as a user experience designer for small local and large international companies.

I am currently a Lead Product Designer at Liberty Mutual. I focus on putting people first, understanding their needs as well as business needs, challenging assumptions, redefining problems, and creating innovative solutions. I work with people and product teams to find better ways of doing things and solving complicated problems. In my personal life, I enjoy skiing with family, weekend hikes, and of course, watching the Bills and Sabres.

Jeff Bagel - Board Candidate

I am the Managing Principal with eAdvancement Consulting and have extensive experience in leading organizations to maximize their potential through fundraising, volunteer and board development, the creation of annual fundraising plans, capital campaigns and the development of alumni and member programs.

My first book, “Annual Fundraising Plans Made Simple,” has been sold in more than 30 countries and has become a solid resource for fundraising professionals around the globe. I am currently completing my next book on fundraising, which will be available in the spring of 2024.

I am born and educated in the 716 and have lived in 14221 for almost 20 years with my wife, Maryalice. My office is on Main Street in heart of Williamsville, where I can often be found walking my dog Aruba and experiencing the best of what the village has to offer. I am involved in numerous community organizations and activities. I currently serve on the Board of Directors at the Foundation for Jewish Philanthropies and am a past President of MusicalFare Theatre and the Association of Fundraising Professionals, WNY Chapter. My history of community service includes serving on the boards of: The Taste of Buffalo, Meals on Wheels, Crisis Services of WNY, the Erie County Youth
Board, the FBI Citizen’s Academy, and Mental Health Advocates of WNY.

I am excited about where the VCMW is today with a planned 2024 grand opening, and also about being its 1000 th member. A community becomes stronger when we work together for the betterment of all. The VCMW is a perfect example. It is the right project at the right time for our community.

Nancy Corigliano - Board Candidate

I'm excited to pursue a seat on the VCMW board at the Village Co-Op Market of Williamsville. My background in leadership, customer satisfaction, and strategic thinking, combined with my diverse career path from the United States Air Force (as a Ground Radio Electrician primarily stationed at Yokota Air Base Japan) to Physical Therapy to Healthcare Administration, makes me a valuable candidate.

My values of community, healthy eating, and education align perfectly with the co-op's core values. I'm eager to contribute my trustworthiness, accountability, and respect to this role. I hope to bring my passion for serving others to the Village Co-Op Market of Williamsville..

Isra Jahan - Current Board Member - Board Candidate

I moved to the area in March of 2022. Holding a degree in Psychology from Stockton University in
southern New Jersey, my path has taken me through a myriad of sectors including retail, food service,
hospitality, finance, and tech, which has broadened my perspectives and honed my versatility.

In a moment of profound connection, I became a member-owner of VCMW in June 2023, a choice
infused with intention. Driven by a fervor for community engagement and inspired by the co-op's
resolute vision and principles, I embarked on a journey towards greater involvement.

The co-op thrives on candid discourse, attentive listening, and harmonious collaboration. My aspiration
is to serve not only as a community member but as a catalyst for positive transformations. Guided by
the co-op's ethos, I'm excited to contribute to sustainable development, individual empowerment, and
resilient communities.