Investing in the Next Generation of Business Leaders 

SUNY Poly marked a major milestone in the evolution of its business and innovation programs with the official launch of the NYSTEC Business Center of Excellence, celebrated last September. The event brought together campus leaders, faculty, staff, and students alongside elected officials and regional partners, underscoring the Center’s importance to both SUNY Poly and the Mohawk Valley. 

The interdisciplinary center was made possible by a transformational $500,000 pledge from the New York State Technology Enterprise Corporation (NYSTEC), a longtime SUNY Poly partner. In recognition of this commitment, the new hub in Donovan Hall proudly bears the NYSTEC name. Among those helping to guide this partnership is SUNY Poly alumna Jasminka Husic ‘08, NYSTEC’s chief financial officer, whose leadership reflects the growing influence of alumni shaping innovation and economic development across New York State. 

Alumni philanthropy also played a defining role in bringing the Center to life. Campaign co-chairs Steve (‘06) and Gina (‘03) Surace, both SUNY Poly alumni, contributed $200,000 toward the creation of the Center’s state-of-the-art AI Trading Room. Their investment exemplifies how alumni continue to give back in ways that directly enhance the student experience and prepare the next generation of leaders. 

“The NYSTEC Business Center of Excellence is more than a physical space,” said SUNY Poly President Winston O. Soboyejo. “It is a place where students will engage with artificial intelligence, confront the ethical challenges of modern business, and transform ideas into action. The generosity of our alumni and partners is creating opportunities that will shape careers and strengthen our region for years to come.” 

Designed as a hub for innovation, ethics, and entrepreneurship, the Center brings together several signature initiatives under one roof. Students will explore the impact of artificial intelligence through an AI and Business Lab, examine real-world dilemmas through the Business Ethics Initiative, and pursue startup ideas with support from the Entrepreneurship and Innovation Hub. The AI Trading Room offers hands-on exposure to financial markets using advanced simulation tools, bridging theory and practice in powerful ways. 

Beyond the Suraces’ leadership, additional alumni and community support fueled the effort. Contributions from Greg and Maryrose Raab, the Community Foundation, M&T Bank and Partners Trust Bank Charitable Fund, Jerome and Donna Donovan, the Senator James H. Donovan Memorial Fund, First Source Federal Credit Union, and others have helped raise more than $885,000 to date. 

SUNY Poly also announced that Assistant Professor Dr. Jim Staihar, director of the Center for Business and Applied Ethics, has been appointed executive director of the NYSTEC Business Center of Excellence, ensuring strong academic leadership as the Center grows. 

The launch of the Center builds on the recent reaccreditation of SUNY Poly’s College of Business by AACSB, a distinction held by fewer than six percent of business schools worldwide. Together, these achievements reflect the power of alumni engagement, strategic partnerships, and a shared belief in SUNY Poly’s mission to educate ethical, innovative, and workforce-ready graduates.