2026 Board of Directors
Nick Stefanovic: Chairman
Eugene chen: treasurer
sean kellas: secretary |
Nick Stefanovic has served as Director of the Monroe County Veterans Service Agency since 2018. A U.S. Marine Corps Veteran (2002–2006) with combat deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan, he is also a disabled Veteran. After overcoming challenges during his transition to civilian life, he became a substance abuse counselor, earning degrees from SUNY Brockport in substance abuse counseling and public administration. Stefanovic is a national advocate for Veterans and has served on numerous boards focused on Veterans, addiction, incarceration, and homelessness.
Eugene Chen brings extensive expertise in financial management, with more than a decade of experience in budgeting, financial reporting, and compliance. He is dedicated to ensuring transparency and fiscal responsibility, and he is passionate about using sound financial practices to strengthen community organizations and expand their impact.
Eugene is a seasoned finance leader at Excellus Blue Cross Blue Shield and a Certified Public Accountant. Earlier in his career, he served in the Coast Guard in Taiwan, an experience that instilled in him a strong sense of discipline and service. That same commitment now guides his efforts to advance Keeping Our Promise’s mission. Sean Kellas served in the U.S. Army from 2020-2023, being stationed in South Korea and Fort Bliss, Texas. Sean took part in Operation Allies Welcome where he worked at Dona Ana Refugee Camp from Aug - Dec 2021. He was one of the first people many refugees from Afghanistan saw coming off the plane, testing them for Covid and welcoming them to the U.S. Now Sean helps KOP with their fundraising and event planning efforts, as well as trying to build the relationship between Special Immigrant Visas holders (SIVs) and the local Veteran Community. Born and raised in Monroe County, Sean received a Bachelor's Degree in Political Science from SUNY Brockport. He later received an Associate's Degree in Intelligence Studies while enlisted in the U.S. Army. Sean currently works as a Facility Security Officer at Metrea Advanced Signals in Victor, NY.
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MEMBERS AT LARGE
Tom Rusling is a philanthropically minded individual who enjoys raising money for worthy causes including Keeping Our Promise. He is an integral part of KOP's fundraising efforts, and led the way for KOP to resettle over 1,000 SIVs since the fall of Kabul in August 2021. Tom, retired since 2011, is a Yale graduate with an Economics degree and successfully rose through the ranks of Howe and Rusling, Inc., Investment Management, where he became president for 29 years. Tom has been married for 59 years and enjoys spending time with his three wonderful children, their spouses and his five grandchildren. Tom's interests are varied and include: choir director at three churches; highly ranked amateur tennis player; Dir. of Rochester Voice Squad; Bridge Life Master; gardener; and collector of wines.
Mirwais Nazari has a bachelor's degree in business administration and worked with Dyncorp International as an Administrative Manager in Kabul Afghanistan.
Since he resettled to the United States in 2016 with the help of KOP, Mirwais has been a valuable volunteer and now serves as an SIV consultant on the board. Mirwais is an interpreter with several agencies and companies in the Rochester area including school districts, hospitals, courts and special events. He recently graduated from the University of Massachusetts with a degree in interpreting and translation. His lobbies include playing music and singing for communities and going on walks with friends. 
Ellen Smith is the founder and Executive Director of Keeping Our Promise. She is a non-voting board member of the organization. |
Abdullah Dindost completed his schooling in Kabul, and worked with the U.S. army in Bagram, and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration for 12 years as a Defect Manager and translator. With the help of KOP, he resettled to Rochester in 2016 with his family, and has been working at Baywinde for 8 years as a Manager. Abdullah is a leader among the Afghan SIV community, and often responds to requests for volunteer support, including translators for our families.
Terri Daniele is a dedicated advocate and accessibility leader with expertise in language equity, political engagement, and business development. With a background in ASL/English Interpreting, she has championed inclusion through entrepreneurship, public service, and policy initiatives. A contributing author and executive leader in local Democratic efforts, Terry applies strategic vision and creativity to every endeavor, ensuring impactful, equitable solutions in both civic and professional spaces.
Zainab Hussaini was born a refugee in the Islamic Republic of Iran and understands the challenges of limited opportunities. However, she didn't let her circumstances hinder her participation and enjoyment of sports. Through determination and perseverance, she built a remarkable career as a runner, becoming the first Afghan to complete an ultramarathon in her country's history. Her struggles fueled her passion for helping other women and refugees enjoy sports, eventually leading her to become the Afghanistan Country Director for Skateistan, a non-profit organization. Alongside her athletic achievements, she studied Political Science and International Relations, further equipping her to make a positive impact. Skateistan empowers children through skateboarding and education in underprivileged communities around the world. In her role, Zainab helps the next generation in Afghanistan stay in school while sports are not currently a priority.
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