UTICA, NY – SUNY Polytechnic Institute (SUNY Poly) is pleased to announce that Amela Hrustic, a dedicated public servant and community leader with extensive experience in electoral administration, legislative coordination, and community engagement, was appointed to the university’s College Council by New York State Governor Kathy Hochul.

“We are delighted to welcome Amela Hrustic to the SUNY Polytechnic Institute College Council,” said RoAnn Destito, chair of the SUNY Poly College Council. “Her wealth of experience in community engagement, administrative leadership, and fostering collaborative relationships will be a tremendous asset to our work. Amela’s dedication to education, diversity, and building stronger communities aligns perfectly with SUNY Poly’s mission, and we look forward to her contributions to our council and the broader campus community.”

Hrustic currently serves as the Democratic Deputy Commissioner at the Oneida County Board of Elections, overseeing voter registration, election processes, and public information initiatives. Prior to her role at the Board of Elections, Amela served as Legislative Coordinator for the New York State Assembly's 119th District. She specialized in legislative research, event coordination, and public communications, crafting impactful correspondence and managing digital outreach for the Assemblymember.

Hrustic’s academic achievements include a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology from Syracuse University, where she was a member of the prestigious Phi Beta Kappa Honor Society and the Renée Crown Honors Program. She also holds dual Associate of Arts degrees in International Studies and Humanities & Social Science from Mohawk Valley Community College.

Fluent in Bosnian, Croatian, Montenegrin, and Serbian, she brings a global perspective to her work. Hrustic’s skills in communication, organizational leadership, and cross-cultural understanding will make her a valued contributor to the SUNY Poly College Council.

"I am truly honored and excited to join the SUNY Polytechnic Institute College Council,” said Hrustic. “SUNY Poly is a vibrant institution dedicated to innovation, excellence, and fostering an inclusive community. I look forward to collaborating with the council, faculty, staff, and students to support the university’s mission and contribute to its continued success."

The SUNY Poly College Council, which meets quarterly, holds a vital role, offering valuable advice and guidance to campus leadership, while also fostering meaningful connections between the institution and its surrounding communities. This collaboration ensures the university remains deeply rooted in and responsive to the needs of its students and the local region.

Community members on the Council, in addition to Destito and Hrustic, include: Darlene Burns, Mitchell Ford, F. Christopher Giruzzi, Nichole Hinman, Dr. Keith Levatino, and William Thickstun. Each year, the Council also has a student representative, elected by peers, a role currently filled by Greyson Weddle. Prospective College Council members are appointed by New York State Governor Kathy Hochul.