Keuka College Chaplain Eric Detar has been appointed as one of Yates County’s liaisons for the New York State Office of Faith & Nonprofit Development Services’ newly formed Interfaith Council—a statewide initiative aimed at strengthening collaboration between faith communities and public resources.
The initiative, launched by Governor Kathy Hochul, seeks to engage trusted faith leaders in all 62 New York counties. Its goal is to promote interfaith cooperation, foster connections across religious and cultural lines, and better address pressing community needs. As part of the program, the state is making an initial $5 million in funding available to support local initiatives.
“I’m hopeful we’ll be able to secure some of that funding to have a positive impact on our campus and community,” said Chaplain Detar.
As a liaison, Chaplain Detar will represent both Yates County and Keuka College, working to share state resources with local organizations and strengthen relationships between public agencies and community-based faith groups. He will serve alongside Sandi Perl of The Living Well Mission.
Building Bridges at Keuka and Beyond
Chaplain Detar sees the appointment as a natural extension of his work at Keuka College, where he directs both the Office of Community & Belonging and the Higher Education Opportunity Program (HEOP). He said the College’s existing interfaith programming—which emphasizes respectful identity, relationship-building, and service—can serve as a model for broader county-wide efforts.
“Keuka College students are already learning how to build community across lines of difference,” he said. “I think some of the programs that come out of the Office of Community & Belonging, along with this state program, will create opportunities to expand conversations.”
He also sees potential connections with the College’s Wellness initiatives, as well as community partners like the Living Well Mission, which supports families of all faiths.
“We’ll be strengthening the relationships we already have,” he added, “and hopefully making some new connections.”
A Strong Fit for Keuka College’s Mission
Keuka College President Amy Storey praised Chaplain Detar’s appointment, calling it a testament to his leadership and the College’s commitment to service and inclusion.
“Chaplain Detar’s appointment is not only a recognition of his leadership, but a reflection of Keuka College’s values,” President Storey said. “We are proud that he will represent Yates County and Keuka College in the vital work of bringing communities together.”
The Interfaith Liaisons’ inaugural meeting is scheduled for September 23. In his new role, Chaplain Detar hopes to not only share information from the state but also help local leaders address challenges like food insecurity, housing instability, and support for vulnerable populations.
“My hope is that it can be more than just a channel for sharing information,” he said. “It’s a chance to bring people into the conversation.”
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