As your local financial institution with a strong foothold in the community, we understand the value of building relationships. We work directly with our business owners, as well as local commercial real estate brokers, CPAs, attorneys, and investors, offering a suite of business services and lending opportunities that can make your business more robust, efficient, and profitable.
Looking to expand, increase inventory, purchase equipment or boost cash flow? Our team of industry specialists can help guide you on your financial journey with HVCU. Find a local Business Expert below, make an appointment online, or email us.
Branch Managers
Branch Managers are your resident, on-the-ground resource. They can help you open accounts, assist you with insurance, support you in filling out a business credit card application, or refer you to a financial planner to prepare you for your organization’s future.
Julie Franceschini 
Wappingers Falls
Phone: 845.463.3011,
Ext: 1934
Commercial Loan Officers
Our Commercial Loan Officers are savvy in their regions and exceed expectations by keeping up-to-date on market trends in Commercial Real Estate. Looking to renovate, refinance, or construct? As Business Experts, our Commercial Loan Officers function as your economic partner. Each is qualified and knowledgeable, and can walk you through a series of lending possibilities including credit cards, lines of credit, vehicle and equipment loans, commercial loans, SBA Loans, and more.
Serving Orange County
Phone: 845.463.3011, Ext 2273
Serving Dutchess County
Phone: 845.463.3011, Ext: 2269
Serving Putnam & Westchester Counties
Phone: 845.463.3011, Ext: 2193
Serving Dutchess & Ulster Counties
Phone: 845.463.3011, Ext: 2279
Serving Northern Ulster County & the Albany Region
Phone: 845.463.3011, Ext 2262
Patrick has more than 30 years of experience in the financial services industry, specializing in SBA financing and commercial mortgages. A graduate of SUNY Empire majoring in Business, Management, and Economics, his career encompasses commercial banking, branch management, financial planning, and insurance. In addition, Patrick is a Notary Public. Patrick works closely with HVCU's business members in Orange County. A resident of Orange County, Patrick is active in the local community. He is a member of the Orange County Chamber of Commerce and a graduate of Leadership Orange.
Diane Elias has 20 years of experience in commercial banking and lending, cash management, portfolio management and business development. Diane works closely with HVCU's business members in Dutchess County. Diane is a member of the New York State Commercial Realtor Association, the Hudson Valley Builders Association, and the Orange County Chamber of Commerce. She previously served on the Board for the Hudson Valley Bankers Association, Orange County Revolving Loan Fund Committee, and the Estate Planning Council. She resides in Dutchess County.
Alicia Punkosdy has over 20 years of experience in commercial lending, portfolio management, business development, coaching, mentoring, and retail branch management. Alicia works closely with HVCU's business members in Dutchess and Ulster Counties. Alicia has served on the Board of Directors for The Vassar Warner Home, as well as a committee member and volunteer for such organizations as New Horizon Resources Inc., Abilities First, Grace Smith House, and the FDR Softball Booster Club. She resides in Hyde Park with her two daughters.
Monofer has over 10 years of experience in retail banking and the financial services industry. A lifetime resident of Albany, NY, Monofer works closely with businesses, commercial leasing agents, developers, and commercial real estate investors to achieve their financial goals and guide their borrowing decisions. An advocate for the community and the next generation, he’s forged strong relationships volunteering in the Junior Achievement program. Usman is passionate about providing businesses and his neighbors the skills needed to own their economic success, plan for the future, and make smart financial choices.
Christopher Galayda has a combined 26 years of experience in the real estate, development, and retail banking industries. Chris works closely with businesses, commercial leasing agents, developers, and commercial real estate investors in the Westchester area to achieve their financial goals and guide their borrowing decisions. A proud U.S. Navy Veteran, Galayda brings the core value of commitment to securing the most affordable and equitable product for the needs of the business. Chris and his family reside in Southern Dutchess County.