Names to Know: Meet the Seacoast business professionals receiving recognition

FedPoint Chief Information Officer Michael Crones elected to National Defense Industrial Association New England Board

PORTSMOUTH — Federal and military benefits administrator and marketplace operator FedPoint announces that Michael Crones, the company’s chief information officer, has been elected to the board of the National Defense Industrial Association (NDIA)’s New England chapter.

The NDIA is America’s leading defense industry association promoting national security. Its mission—and that of its chapters—is to engage leaders in U.S. military, government, industry and academic sectors to promote and advocate for the best policies, practices, products and technology for warfighters and others who ensure the safety and security of the U.S. and its citizens. The NDIA provides annual education and events for Department of Defense (DoD) contractors with a focus on ensuring that current best practices for cybersecurity and compliance flow down to all stakeholders in the military supply chain on an ongoing basis.

“We strongly support Michael’s appointment to the NDIA New England board,” said FedPoint CEO Kevin Hill. “It’s a win-win. As a federal contractor serving the military and federal civilian markets, we benefit from access to the resources and information on best practices in cybersecurity that NDIA provides. Likewise, we have little doubt that NDIA will benefit from the formidable knowledge and real-world expertise that Michael brings. When public and private join forces in support of a common goal—in this case cyber-security—the results are powerful.”

Crones said he has been a member of NDIA New England for the past 10 years, and he was honored to be asked to join the board and continue to help further the organization’s mission to promote a strong, diverse security ecosystem in New England.

“Given the ever-increasing role that data and technology play in our nation’s defense, helping contractors in the military ecosystem maintain a strong, secure cybersecurity posture to protect our nation against evolving threats has never been more important,” Crones said. “NDIA provides an ideal platform for leaders across public and private sectors to come together in support of our nation’s security and defense needs.”

Crones noted in support of NDIA New England’s mission, the organization is hosting its 8 ^th annual cybersecurity event on Tuesday, Sept. 10, called, “Secure Horizons: Navigating Threats in an Era of AI and Government Enforcement.” The event is being held at Gillette Stadium in Foxboro, Mass., and will bring together speakers from U.S. Government and industry thought leaders to present and converse on topics ranging from the China threat and AI to Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification and compliance.

Andres Mejia appointed Board Member for the Racial Unity Team

STRATHAM — The Racial Unity Team (RŪT, pronounced root) announced the appointment of Andrés Mejía to its Board of Directors. Mejía, who isDirector of Organizational Learning and Talent Development at New Hampshire Charitable Foundation, will serve the remaining vacant term of board member Kathleen Blake, who stepped down because of other obligations.

The New Hampshire resident was accepted by unanimous vote by the RŪT Board of Directors. “I am excited to welcome Andrés as our newest board member,” said Board Chair Ken Mendis. “He is no stranger to New Hampshire and understands the needs of Granite Staters.”

Mejias served as the inaugural Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Justice for the New Hampshire School Administrative Unit 16, which consists of seven school districts. Prior to the SAU 16 position, he spent 13 years spearheading equity, diversity, inclusion, and social justice initiatives across New Hampshire and Massachusetts.

“The addition of Andrés to the board embodies the spirit of community and adds a new talent with deep community knowledge and a passion for diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice. RŪT is very fortunate to have him join our team as a board member, as we continue to expand our community-to-school programs, Art and Poetry Challenge, Bookshelf Diversity, and Arts In Action, for which we were awarded the Governor’s Award for Arts Education in 2023,” said Mendis.

Living up to RŪT’s mission and vision, Mejia will be instrumental to help grow and expand the impact RŪT will have on hard-to-reach communities to make a difference that assures a future in which Granite Staters fully embrace, respect, and encourage racial diversity and unity so that New Hampshire fosters a genuine feeling of belonging for all who live, work, and visit here. To learn more about the work of the Racial Unity Team or if you wish to become a volunteer, visit their website at www.racialunityteam.com .

Leone, McDonnell & Roberts announces Promotions

SEACOAST — Leone, McDonnell & Roberts, Professional Association, a leading CPA firm with offices throughout New Hampshire, announces the promotions of Angela Zakon, CPA to Manager and Zane Angelopoulos, Sydney Carlisle, Hannah Cloutier, CPA, and Matthew Creamer to Seniors.

Angela Zakon, CPA joined the firm in 2008 and works in the North Conway office, specializing in both tax and audit services. She earned her bachelor’s degree in accountancy from Case Western Reserve University where she graduated cum laude in 1992. Prior to starting with Leone, McDonnell & Roberts, Angela worked at one of the “Big Four” where she gained valuable experience and an affinity for teaching and training.

A resident of Center Conway, Angela enjoys spending time with her family as well as gardening, hiking, and skiing. She serves the local community as treasurer at two local nonprofit organizations, White Mountain Community Health Center and Assistance Canine Training Services (ACTS).

Zane Angelopoulos , a resident of Somersworth, joined the firm in 2022 and works in the Dover office on both tax and audit engagements. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting (2022) and just a few months later earned a Master of Science (2022) from New England College. There, Zane was recognized with the NEC Scholar Athlete Award, NEC Management Division Award, and he graduated with a 4.0 GPA. He enjoys spending time with his family, playing golf, hockey and skiing.

Sydney Carlisle started in July 2021 after completing a busy season internship with the firm. She lives in the Lakes Region and works from the North Conway office. She graduated magna cum laude from the University of New Hampshire where she received her bachelor’s degree in business administration with options in accounting and entrepreneurship. She works on a variety of tax and audit engagements and enjoys problem-solving and helping clients achieve their goals. Outside of the office, Sydney enjoys spending time with family and friends, and can be found at the beach, skiing or hiking throughout New England.

Hannah Cloutier, CPA also graduated magna cum laude from the University of New Hampshire in 2022 where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with concentrations in accounting and finance. In 2022, she launched her career with Leone, McDonnell & Roberts in Dover, after interning and gaining valuable, hands-on experience. Hannah is a resident of Stratham, and enjoys spending time with her family and dogs, as well as hiking and golfing.

Matthew Creamer started at Leone, McDonnell & Roberts in 2023 and specializes in assurance and audit services. Prior to joining the Dover team, he gained valuable accounting experience from internships and full-time work at a large accounting firm where he specialized in nonprofit and employee benefit plan work. He earned his bachelor’s degree in 2021 from the University of New Hampshire and went on to receive a Master of Science in Accounting from there in 2022. A resident of Epping, Matthew likes spending time with his family, playing guitar, snowboarding, and visiting the Lakes Region.

“We are pleased to recognize Angela, Zane, Sydney, Hannah and Matthew on their well-deserved advancement,” said Managing Partner Evan Stowell. “Their outstanding achievements, leadership, and commitment to our clients along with their technical expertise make our firm better. We congratulate them and look forward to their continued growth and development at the firm.”

This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Names to Know: Meet the Seacoast business professionals receiving recognition