By Abigail Sprague

Oct. 16, 2025: Bereavement Center of Westchester Tree House (BCW Tree House) is pleased to announce changes to its Board of Directors, bidding a fond farewell to departing members while extending a warm welcome to new leadership. The organization proudly names Wendy Halley of Bronxville, NY, as Chair of the Board.

Wendy Halley

A dedicated BCW Tree House board member since 2020, Ms. Halley brings both experience and passion to her new role, advancing the Center’s mission of providing a safe, supportive environment for individuals navigating grief and healing. “I am deeply honored to assume the role of Chairperson for the Bereavement Center of Westchester Tree House,” Ms. Halley stated. “I am equally delighted to welcome our newest board members, Laura Frerer-Schmidt, Jill Frizzley Bethea, Maureen Stapleton and Lori Deutsch whose talents and commitment will be invaluable to our work. I also extend heartfelt gratitude to MK O’Shaughnessy, our outgoing Chair, for her extraordinary service to BCW Tree House since 2017, including six years of exceptional leadership. Her dedication has greatly strengthened both our Board and our impact.”

The newest members, Ms. Bethea, Ms. Frerer-Schmidt, Ms. Stapleton and Ms. Deutsch, bring a wealth of experience, fresh perspectives, and enthusiasm that will help expand BCW Tree House’s presence in the community.

Since moving to Bronxville in 2017, Ms. Bethea has sought an opportunity to serve a local charitable organization. “I have attended many BCW Tree House events,” she noted, “and have always been impressed by their ability to bring people together to support such a vital cause. I look forward to helping expand BCW Tree House’s mission in Bronxville and beyond.”

Jill Frizzley Bethea

Ms. Frerer-Schmidt shares a deep commitment to the organization’s goals, bolstered by decades of professional work with nonprofits. “Throughout my 30-year career in media, I collaborated with numerous organizations devoted to charitable giving,” she shared. “One of my most meaningful experiences was partnering with Lauren Bush Lauren to create FEED, an organization dedicated to providing children with proper food and nutrition. I have seen firsthand how a supportive environment can transform lives, and I am honored to contribute to BCW Tree House’s important mission.”

Laura Freyer-Schmidt

Ms. Stapleton has longtime ties to Bronxville. “My husband and I grew up in Bronxville, and our parents instilled the importance of giving back to the community. I’ve served on the Bronxville school PTA and Reformed Church Nursery School Board. I’ve also been on several committees for events around town. It’s rewarding work and helps me teach the value of volunteering to my own children.”

Maureen Stapleton

Ms. Deutsch is a psychiatrist and psychoanalyst living in Bronxville and is looking forward to her role as BCW Tree Houe board member. “I’ve learned a lot about BCW Tree House through conversations with supporters in the community, and I was so excited when I was asked to join the board. The support children and families receive from BCW programs is exceptional. I’m so glad to be involved.”

Lori Deutsch

Looking ahead, Ms. Halley expressed enthusiasm for the Board’s upcoming initiatives. “We are dedicated to raising funds in support of BCW Tree House’s essential work, and have begun planning for our fall fundraiser, Mad For Plaid. This year’s event will be on November 21^st at the home of Laura Frerer-Schmidt. The community’s support for this event and their unwavering dedication to our mission help make the future brighter for all those we serve.”