New Members

Marissa Kresge

Marissa Kresge has a long history of being involved in our community through the Interact Club at OFA, the Rotary Exchange Program, Apalachin Fireman Field Days, and the United Methodist Church Clothing Closet.

She was a Rotary Exchange Student in 2014–2015 in Florianópolis, the capital of the Brazilian State of Santa Catarina. Located in the country’s center southern region Florianópolis is an island just off the mainland.

Marissa has a Bachelor of Arts degree in English Literature and Writing with a minor in Journalism. She works as a community health educator at the Family Health Clinic of Tioga Opportunities, where she is the social media manager as well as an interface for patients regarding their needs outside the clinic. She writes and delivers presentations on health and wellness topics such as diet, technology, and STDs. In doing so, she creates and maintains relationships with outside organizations for cross promotion and referrals.

A believer in the importance of continually learning throughout life, Marissa is deeply passionate about exploring other cultures, learning new languages, and trying new foods. She is also a cat mom of a rambunctious Maine coon mix.

Looking ahead, Karissa is excited to continue giving back to her community through her job and the Owego Rotary Club. She is eager to encourage young people to join the movement to help others.

Here is how Marissa answered the question Why do you want to join Rotary?

“Rotary has fundamentally shaped my life in such a strong, positive and rewarding way that I find it extremely important to give back to the people and community who have given me so many amazing experiences and opportunities. I can only hope that I can do the same for future generations to come.”

Spencer Keller

Growing up near the Atlantic coast in Toms River, New Jersey, Spencer Keller was drawn to the ocean’s calming waves and sandy beaches. His weekends were spent basking in the sun, building sandcastles, and playing beach soccer with friends and family. These early experiences instilled in him a deep appreciation for the beauty of the natural world and laid the foundation for his love of outdoor activities.

In December 2023, Spencer embarked on a new chapter of his life when he bid farewell to Toms River and set his sights on Owego. The rolling hills and lush forests of upstate New York offered Spencer the perfect backdrop for his love of outdoor adventures.  From the moment he arrivedSpencer felt a sense of excitement and anticipation for the experiences that awaited him in his new home.

In addition to outdoor activities Spencer’s hobbies include discovering new restaurants. From cozy diners to upscale eateries Spencer’s culinary adventures are as diverse as they are delicious.

Spencer has also developed a love for pickle ball and has found that he enjoys the peaceful activity of mowing his lawn.

His journey from Toms River to Owego is a testament to his adventurous spirit and unwavering enthusiasm for life. Through his love of nature, culinary exploration, and his hobbies, Spencer  embraces every opportunity for adventure and discovery. As he looks towards the future, he is excited to continue exploring the world around him and to find joy in the simple pleasures of life in Owego.

Spencer has a Bachelor of Business Administration degree, is a Licensed Insurance Agent at AJ Freedom Financial, and is studying to be a Financial Planner.