In recent weeks, three local people were appointed to direct Oneida Nation operations; Dana Sovocool of Liverpool, director of human resources; Linda Gilbert of Jamesville, director of programs and innovation for the Information Technology department; and Todd Saunders of Clinton, director of operations support for the Information Technology department. All three directors have responsibilities for both the Nation and its business enterprises.

Sovocool originally joined the Oneida Nation in 1993 as a human resources specialist with the pre-opening team focusing on recruitment and training. He was promoted to team relations manager in 1998 and senior human resources manager in 2003. A graduate of the University of Buffalo with a Bachelor of Science degree in Management, he also possesses a graduate certificate in Labor Relations from Cornell University’s School of Industrial Labor Relations.

Gilbert was previously director of information technology for Turning Stone Resort and Casino. In her new capacity, she provides innovative solutions to align with business operations initiatives, establishes governance programs and oversees the management of IT Security. She joined the Nation as a gaming analyst in 2003 and was promoted to manager of the IT program management office in 2005. Gilbert was previously employed by the MONY Group in Syracuse for nearly 26 years in several positions, including assistant vice president.

Saunders oversees all aspects of day-to-day computer operations for the Nation and its enterprises.
Before joining the Oneida Nation, Saunders was IT infrastructure operations manager for Carrier Corporation in Syracuse. A graduate of St. Lawrence University, he has 15 years of experience in the area of information technology, primarily in the banking and investment sector.
Saunders is active in his community in youth hockey and soccer.