Meet theStaff
Alexander (A.J.) LaPoint – Executive 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 Bachelors of the Arts degrees in Creative Arts and 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. A.J. joined the FrancisCorps staff in 2014, becoming the Director in 2015 and Executive Director in 2026. 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 Executive Director is responsible for the FrancisCorps program in its entirety. The Executive Director primarily oversees financial operations, mission advancement, and strategic planning as well as supporting and overseeing the formation program provided to the volunteers.
Want to contact A.J.? Email him at alexander@franciscorps.org or call him at 315-299-2427.
Nora O’Malley – Program Director
Nora O’Malley was born in Buffalo, New York, but has been living in Syracuse, New York since age 10. She received a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature and History from the Franciscan University of Steubenville and has spent most of her professional life as a Catholic school educator at both Bishop Ludden High School and Christian Brothers Academy here is Syracuse. In recent years, she worked as a campus minister for Retreat Ministry and Faith Formation at Le Moyne College. She has a passion for ministering to young adults and is so excited to walk with the FrancisCorps volunteers on their journey of faith and service.
Areas of Responsibility
The Program Director is responsible for the day-to-day operation of the volunteer experience, walking with volunteers from initial interest through completion of their FrancisCorps experience. The Program Director is primarily responsible for recruitment and program management.
Want to contact Nora O’Malley? Email her at nora@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 in other capacities from time to time.
Want to contact Friar Nader? Email him at friarnader@franciscorps.org
