Board President Craig Diehl is a native of Germantown, NY. Growing up, he was familiar with Clermont and its history. When he joined a grant-gifting non-profit organization in 2014, he wanted to learn more about non-profits that focused on fundraising and was impressed with the Friends of Clermont board. After learning more about the mission of the Friends of Clermont and the Harvesting History program, Craig knew he had to get involved. Along with his husband Michael Koelsch, he’s been on the board since 2020.

On a professional note:

What are some key goals you hope to achieve during your time on the board?

I hope we:

• can transform the barn at Clermont into a working event space to hold festivals, concerts, and other programs when the weather doesn’t cooperate.

• are able to return to Clermont Cottage for meetings, programs, and other events.

• welcome additional board members who can help us continue our mission and grow. 

• see improvements in the pathways from the Visitor Center to the mansion.

• I’d also like to see the Lilac Walk restored. And last, for the mansion’s paint to sparkle for the next 30 years.

Where do you see the board or organization in the next few years, and what role do you think the board will play in getting there?

I see the Friends of Clermont partnering with other sites along the Hudson River to collaborate on programs. I see the board helping more with fundraising programs with the Friends of Clermont and New York State. I hope the Friends of Clermont will partner with Bard College to bring more musical events to Clermont.

How has being part of a board impacted you personally or professionally?

Personally, my life has much more purpose by giving back to others. I am more aware of the communities around where I live. I am more generous with charities and other non-profits because of my work with Friends of Clermont. I feel I am making a difference in the world and not selfishly making my own life better.

The organizational and leadership skills I have developed while on this board and other non-profit boards have helped me professional life. I have been a leader for many years at work and was promoted to manager over a year ago at my job.

What do you find most fulfilling about serving on the board?

I love being a part of the Harvesting History program and planting seeds in young people’s lives. I also love that we donate the produce to local food banks. Food insecurity is a huge problem. I am also glad that Clermont provides a place for people to come to get peace and walk through the trails.

What do you think is the most important responsibility of a board member?

Attending events at Clermont, donating time and money, participating in board meetings, and committee meetings are all important aspects to take into consideration when joining the board. We are all the face of the organization and partner with the state. Positivity and a willingness to pitch in are critical.

What advice would you give to someone considering joining a board for the first time?

Get to know the other board members. At events, get to know Friends of Clermont members. A good board is one that works well together. I also think a board that reaches out to people attending events will help the guests feel more welcome.

On a personal note:

What is your favorite vacation destination and why?

Ogunquit, Maine. It’s just a short drive to get there and I love walking along the coast on the Marginal Way. The ocean views and waves are incredible.

What are your top 3 favorite musicians?

Taylor Swift, P!nk, and Miley Cyrus

What is one of the most interesting facts about you (that most people wouldn’t know)?

I love starting over in life. When I went to college at Johnson & Wales in Providence, Rhode Island, I picked it because I wanted a new life. When I finished college, I moved to Raleigh, North Carolina for work. Then five years later, I moved to Dallas, Texas for work. Each time, it pushed me to create my life and push myself to succeed.

I took a course called Landmark Education that helped me appreciate my life and live it powerfully. My life is not perfect, but I have learned a lot about myself and have tools to help me be the best person I can be. I volunteered as a life coach in that program for nine years after I completed the course. Each group I coached allowed me to grow as a person and created goals in my personal life. That is when I learned I wanted to live in New York near my family. I love it here, and don’t ever plan to move again. I am home.