UTICA, NY – SUNY Polytechnic Institute will host its inaugural College of Business Week from September 15–19, 2025. As the first in a new series showcasing SUNY Poly’s colleges and academic strengths, the program will feature lectures, panels, and events highlighting the college’s partnerships with alumni, industry leaders, government officials, and the regional business community.

The week will feature keynote presentations from distinguished leaders and culminate in a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new NYSTEC Business Center of Excellence, located in Donovan Hall.

“We are thrilled to showcase the many ways SUNY Poly’s College of Business connects students with alumni and industry partners,” said Dr. Rafael Romero, Interim Dean of the College of Business. “College of Business Week is a chance to celebrate innovation, leadership, and community impact while offering our students valuable insights and opportunities for their future careers.”

Featured Events
•  Leadership with Purpose: Alicia Dicks, President and CEO, Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties
Wednesday, September 17, 6 p.m.
Alicia Dicks will discuss the challenges and opportunities of leading a major community-focused nonprofit, offering insights into effective leadership, collaboration, and community impact.
• Workplace Culture - A Foundation for a Thriving Company: Kevin Owens, President and CEO of NYSTEC
Thursday, September 18, 6 p.m.
Kevin Owens will share leadership lessons drawn from his experience guiding NYSTEC, emphasizing workplace culture, organizational growth, and innovation.
• Ribbon Cutting: SUNY Poly’s NYSTEC Business Center of Excellence
Friday, September 19, 2 p.m.
This special ceremony will celebrate the opening of the NYSTEC Business Center of Excellence, which will serve as a hub for innovation, entrepreneurship, and interdisciplinary education. The center will integrate cutting-edge fields such as artificial intelligence, business ethics, and financial market innovation, made possible by the generous support of numerous donors.

A Full Week of Engagement
Beyond the highlighted events, College of Business Week will include lectures on ethics, finance, entrepreneurship, leadership, and interactive panels featuring alumni, government officials, and industry professionals. These sessions will provide SUNY Poly students, faculty, and the broader community with opportunities to engage directly with leaders across multiple sectors.

All events are free to attend with RSVP required. A full schedule of lectures, panels, and activities can be found on SUNY Poly’s website.

College of Business Week is part of a broader year-long initiative. Throughout the 2025–26 academic year, SUNY Poly will also spotlight its College of Arts and Sciences, College of Engineering, College of Health Sciences, and Office of Research, ensuring that each division has the opportunity to highlight its impact, partnerships, and contributions.