SUNY Polytechnic Institute (SUNY Poly) is pleased to announce the appointment of alumnus Nicholas (Nick) Cavanaugh ’17 to the SUNY Poly Foundation Board of Directors, bringing more than a decade of experience in banking, financial management, and community engagement to the role.

“We are delighted to welcome Nick to the SUNY Poly Foundation Board,” said Andrea LaGatta, Vice President of Institutional Advancement and Executive Director of the SUNY Poly Foundation. “As an alumnus, he understands firsthand the value of a SUNY Poly education, and his extensive experience in financial services, business development, and community leadership will be a tremendous asset as we continue to strengthen philanthropic support and create opportunities for our students.”

Cavanaugh currently serves as Vice President and Senior Branch Manager at M&T Bank in Utica, where he oversees branch operations, business development, and customer relationships while leading a team of banking professionals.

A 2017 graduate of SUNY Poly with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and Business Administration, Cavanaugh has built a successful career in the financial services industry. Prior to joining M&T Bank, he held leadership positions at Community Bank and NBT Bank, as well as a financial services role at First Source Federal Credit Union.

Throughout his career, Cavanaugh has demonstrated a commitment to professional development, mentorship, and community service. He holds certifications in small business banking from the American Bankers Association and commercial banking and credit analysis from the Corporate Finance Institute.

An active member of the Mohawk Valley community, Cavanaugh serves on the boards of directors for Anita's Stevens-Swan Humane Society and Empowered Pathways CNY. He has also served on SUNY Poly's Alumni Advisory Committee since March 2026.

“SUNY Poly played an important role in preparing me for my career, and I am honored to have the opportunity to give back to an institution that has meant so much to me,” said Cavanaugh. “I look forward to working alongside fellow board members to support the university's mission, strengthen its connections throughout the community, and help create opportunities for current and future generations of Wildcats.”

The SUNY Poly Foundation, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation established in 1974, encourages philanthropic support from individuals, corporations, foundations, and other organizations to provide scholarships, assist faculty and staff, and advance campus development. The Foundation’s Board of Directors, composed of alumni, college representatives, and community leaders, provides exemplary leadership and oversight to ensure the financial health and fiscal stewardship of the Foundation.