Staff
Alexander (A.J.) LaPoint – Director
A.J. was born and raised in Plattsburgh, New York. He holds a Masters of the Arts degree in Higher Education Administration with a concentration in Catholic University Leadership from Boston College and a Bachelor’s of the Arts in Creative Arts and a Bachelor’s of the Arts in Mathematics from Siena College. A.J. is a former FrancisCorps volunteer, having served with FrancisCorps 10 (2008-2009) in Syracuse at the Assumption Food Pantry and Franciscan Northside Ministries. After spending time working with young adults and their personal, professional, and spiritual development, A.J. joined the FrancisCorps staff in 2014, becoming the Director in 2015. A.J. is thrilled and excited to be lending his experience and skills to help FrancisCorps continue to be the fantastic and life-changing experience it is!
Areas of Responsibility
The FrancisCorps Director is responsible for the FrancisCorps program in its entirety. The Director oversees the volunteers, the day-to-day operations of the program, as well as future planning.
Want to contact A.J.? Email him at alexander@franciscorps.org or call him at 315-299-2427.
Jenny Rose Anacan – Associate Director
Jenny Rose was born in Quezon City, Philippines, but grew up in O’ahu, Hawai’i. She received a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a minor in Christian studies from Chaminade University of Honolulu. Jenny Rose was part of FrancisCorps 20 (2018-2019) where she served at Catholic Charities of Onondaga County’s Vincent House on the west side of Syracuse as the After School Program Coordinator. After being a FrancisCorps volunteer, she went to graduate school to receive a Masters of Science in Higher Education and Student Affairs Administration from Canisius College. In 2021, Jenny Rose returned to Syracuse to be part of the FrancisCorps staff. She is happy to be working with potential volunteers and loves watching the different ways current volunteers grow from the FrancisCorps experience.
Areas of Responsibility
The FrancisCorps Associate Director is primarily responsible for walking with potential volunteers who apply to FrancisCorps, but also assists in all facets of the FrancisCorps program.
Want to contact Jenny Rose? Email her at jennyrose@franciscorps.org or call/text her at 315-299-3343.
Friar Nader Ata, OFM Conv. – Chaplain
Friar Nader was born in Brooklyn, New York, and grew up in Central New Jersey. Friar Nader entered formation for the Conventual Franciscan Friars in 2003, professed his first vows in 2007, and then professed his solemn vows in 2011. He was ordained as a friar-priest in 2017 while living in Syracuse, New York. After 3 years of ministering in Brooklyn, New York, Friar Nader has been reassigned to Syracuse, New York. He now ministers at Assumption Church and The Franciscan Place Chapel and Gift Shop in Destiny USA. Friar Nader is excited to journey with the volunteers during this year dedicated to service, prayer, and community.
Areas of Responsibility
The FrancisCorps Chaplain supports the spiritual and formative development of the volunteers, particularly with retreats. The Chaplain may also help out the Director in other capacities from time to time.
Want to contact Friar Nader? Email him at friarnader@franciscorps.org
