Alliance Network Welcomes New CEO, William C. Wasserman

Alliance for Empowerment has hired Bill Wasserman as Chief Executive Officer, replacing Leisa Alger, who retired from the position at the close of 2024.

Wasserman comes to the agency with a depth of experience in human services, specifically in agencies that serve people with disabilities. Most recently, he served as Executive Vice President/Chief Financial Officer for Sodrel Holdings, Inc., based in Jeffersonville, Indiana. There, he honed and practiced his skills and abilities related to strategy, financial sustainability, planning, and capital/real estate. His human service leadership experience includes time as Executive Director of Grow Associates, Inc. in Randolph, Massachusetts, Executive Director of Sparc Enterprises, Inc. – Stepping Stone Residential Services in Grants Pass, Oregon, and as Associate Executive Director of Abilities First in Poughkeepsie, New York.

“I am confident Bill will lead us, with compassion and vision, through our next chapter as a regional organization,” said Board Chair Aaron Alsheimer. “From the start, it was apparent to me that the model upon which Alliance is built, as well as the culture that exists throughout the network, were aligned with my own values of service delivery,” Wasserman said. “I have a passion for creativity and service provision and I’m looking forward to building on the good work that’s been done by the team in place here.”

Leisa Alger remains on staff as Director of Strategic Projects. In this part-time, temporary role, she will work directly with Wasserman on projects identified through the agency’s strategic planning work, including initiatives focused on workforce development, clinic services sustainability, and adaptive technology enhancements.

“On behalf of the board of directors, I wish to extend my gratitude to Leisa for her work and commitment during this critical transition period,” said Alsheimer. “As always, I am thankful to every member of the team at Alliance, Able2 and Capabilities.”

Alliance for Empowerment was formed in 2022 as the administrative parent organization of Able2 and Capabilities, Inc., both of which serve people with disabilities in the Chemung County area.