The New York Ski Educational Foundation (NYSEF) has hired Danielle LaCavalla as its Director of Communications and Development. LaCavalla replaces Beatty Schlueter, who has assumed leadership of the NYSEF Winter Term Program for the 2017-2018 season.

LaCavalla, a NYSEF program alumna, grew up just outside of New York City and skied at Windham Mountain in the Catskills before enrolling at the Northwood School in Lake Placid. She then moved on to attend St. Lawrence University, earning her Bachelor’s while competing for four seasons on the NCAA Division 1 Alpine Ski Team for the Saints.

After graduation, LaCavalla became a paralegal with an attorney in the Boston area while jointly serving as Head Alpine Ski Coach for Tufts University. LaCavalla then transitioned to Norwich University in Northfield, Vermont, where she served in several roles within their Development and Events Departments, including Assistant Director of Class Giving and Assistant Director of Bicentennial Events.  Most recently, LaCavalla has led the the Greater Ishpeming-Negaunee Area Chamber of Commerce (GINCC) in Northern Michigan, serving as the organization’s Executive Director.

LaCavalla is eager to begin her new role with NYSEF. “Coming home to NYSEF is something I’ve hoped for and looked forward to for years now. I’ve gathered a lot of diverse experience with several key organizations throughout the past few years,” writes LaCavalla. “I’m looking to use that background to promote positive engagement and develop relationships within the NYSEF community.”

On returning to NYSEF, LaCavalla adds,“I truly believe in the mission of NYSEF and the promotion of health and wellness, specifically related to youth development. Snowsports teach independence, hard work and determination – skills that are valuable in all aspects of life.”

LaCavalla will be working alongside Hadley Driscoll, Race Administrator and Assistant Director of Development, who was appointed in the fall of 2016. “I am grateful for Hadley’s experience with the current NYSEF event calendar and its community. I’m looking forward to working closely with her and the rest of the NYSEF team,” adds LaCavalla.

“Danielle brings a great deal of relevant experience and passion for community to NYSEF,” said John Norton, NYSEF’s Executive Director. “As an athlete, coach and administrator, she has amassed a valuable understanding of the joys and challenges we face as a youth sports organization. I’m pleased that Danielle will be joining our team and am looking forward to working with her to carry NYSEF forward.”

LaCavalla moves back to the area with her partner Shane MacDowell along with their two cats (Spike and Whitey). Alongside her passion for skiing, LaCavalla has discovered a new love for mountain biking and is looking forward to riding the BETA Trails, as well as participating in other outdoor activities throughout the Adirondacks.