A Legacy of Leadership

“The Westchester County Association is formed primarily to be of service to our County, to our neighbors, to our commercial and cultural groups.” – Edward P. Prezzaro, first Chair of the WCA.

Founded 75 years ago as the voice of Westchester’s top companies, its original members include Reader’s Digest, Consolidated Edison, Bleakley, Platt & Schmidt LLP, JP Morgan, Verizon, Sarah Lawrence College, and The Journal News. While some organizations have evolved, many remain active, contributing to Westchester’s vibrancy. Today, the WCA unites businesses, nonprofits, higher education, and government entities, all driven by innovation, action, and impact amidst three quarters of a century of growth, we remain dedicated to service.

Timeline of Key Milestones

1950s

First Board Meeting

Held at Reader’s Digest, establishing the foundation for decades of advocacy and leadership.

Infrastructure Advocacy

Supported the completion of I-287 and the opening of the Tappan Zee Bridge.

Promoted significant infrastructure improvements, including enhancements to Westchester Airport, highway transportation systems, and the development of a centralized U.S. Mail Service.

Business Support

Championed General Motor’s expansion in North Tarrytown.

1960s

Educational Growth

Played an instrumental role in expanding higher education in Westchester, including projects with Manhattanville College, SUNY Purchase, and New York Medical College.

Transportation and Infrastructure Advances

Advocated for improvements to I-287, Hutchinson Parkway, Route 9, Saw Mill River Parkway, and I-684.

Advocated for the creation of a centralized U.S. mail handling facility for the County.

Regional Collaboration

Partnered with organizations like the Long Island Association and Northern Metropolitan Hospital Association (NORMET).

1970s

World Trade Council

Collaborated with the U.S. Department of Commerce to establish the World Trade Council to bolster international trade.

County Budget and Policy Oversight

Conducted detailed analyses and recommended strategies to optimize both county budgets and operational efficiencies.

Advocacy Efforts

Secured funding to protect the Croton Watershed.

Advocated for consolidating the Parkway Police and Sheriff’s Department to streamline law enforcement.

Petitioned President Nixon to resolve the mail strike.

1980s

Westchester 2000 Project

Partnered with the County Government to assess challenges and trends as the county approached the 21st century.

Infrastructure Improvements

Supported initiatives like the Westchester Airport Master Plan, creation of a county-wide solid waste facility, recycling programs, and the expansion of Tappan Zee Bridge capacity.

Seminars and Advocacy

Hosted forward-thinking seminars on topics such as employee discrimination, computer security, and women in the workforce.

1990s

Economic Partnerships

Collaborated with the Westchester County
 Government to form the Westchester Partnership for Economic Development.

New Programs Launched

Launched the Westchester Venture Group, “Westchester Future” Cable TV Series, and an Annual WCA Breakfast with the Westchester County Executive.

2000s

Healthcare Reform Advocacy

The Blue Ribbon Task Force led to historic healthcare legislative reforms, including strengthening health insurer transparency and consumer protection
rights (2006–2009).

Collaborated with the NY Attorney General to secure a $50 million refund for overcharged small businesses.

Partnered with Normet to create the state’s first federally designated patient safety organization (PSO).

Call-to-Action Campaign

Addressed Westchester’s high property tax burden through the Property Tax Commission, which directly contributed to the adoption of the state’s 2 percent tax cap.

Economic Growth Initiatives

Formed alliances with organizations like the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) and Long Island Association to drive state government reform.

Programs for Professional Growth

Managed the U.S. Department of Labor’s $10 million Jobs Waiting program, recognized as one of the top 23 nationwide.

Established the Higher Education Committee to develop programs aligning business needs with academic institutions.

The World Trade Council

Facilitated Westchester’s engagement in global trade and positioned the county as a destination for international investment.

2010s

60th Anniversary Celebration of the WCA

Blueprint of Westchester

Engaged business, academic, real estate, and urban sectors to reduce or repurpose six million square feet of unoccupied Class A office space.

Gigabit Westchester

Partnered with local mayors on a $750M Smart
Cities project to introduce 1-gigabit broadband,
aimed at enhancing healthcare, education, and economic development.

Advancing Reforms

Continued advocacy through the evolved Call-to-Action Campaign, which successfully addressed the anti-business climate in the region.

The Blue Ribbon Task Force successfully advocated for and achieved the passage of crucial legislation, restoring prior approval authority to the state insurance department. This legislation also increased the medical loss ratio from 75% to 82% for small businesses and from 80% for individuals, marking a significant step forward in improving insurance oversight and fairness.

Jobs Waiting Program

Westchester County Association managed the successful Ready to Work program for Westchester County (2014-2019). The U.S. Dept. of Labor recognized Jobs Waiting as among the best of 23 Ready to Work programs in the nation.

2020s

Advancing Digital Modernization

Launched Y-Zone and Connect Westchester, in partnership with the county and STEM Alliance, to improve digital equity and access.

Promoting Sustainability

Hosted the region’s first sustainable business conference in partnership with Pace University’s Elizabeth Haub School of Law.

Created the Clean Energy Portal to help businesses access and utilize federal programs and incentives.

Collaborated with Fordham University to provide an online course focused on organizational sustainability and strategic innovation.

Building a Talent Pipeline

Through initiatives like the Healthcare Talent Pipeline Program, filled over 200 local jobs and addressed critical employment shortages.

Designed jobseeker guides and regional job fairs to connect professionals, businesses, and students.

Real Estate and Housing Initiatives

Developed the Real Estate Policy Playbook with actionable zoning strategies for local governments.

Co-founded “Welcome Home Westchester” and “5 
in 2025 agenda,” a housing initiative addressing
 regional shortages.

Launched the Municipal Climate Education Project to align development strategies with climate action.

Focus on Impact

From digital equity to healthcare to housing innovation to sustainability, the WCA remains committed to driving economic growth and fostering a thriving, connected community.

Looking Forward

Career Pathways:

Enhancing the regional talent ecosystem by
 guiding high school and college students in career development, skill-building, and networking to
prepare the next generation for diverse industries
while addressing workforce gaps.

Healthcare Talent Pipeline Program (HTPP):
Continuing to align the curriculum, expand clinical training, and build resources for sustaining the healthcare workforce.

Housing Initiatives:
Progressing under the “5 in 2025” banner to combat housing shortages with innovative solutions.

Clean Energy Portal:
Ongoing efforts to provide accessible resources that help businesses transition to sustainable and energy-efficient practices.

Connect Westchester and Beyond:
Connect Westchester was created to empower communities to thrive in the digital economy. WCA research shows that digital skills significantly enhance access to telehealth, financial literacy, education, and job training opportunities. Together with the STEM Alliance, WCA will continue hosting regular webinars and virtual events to bring the community together and foster meaningful discussions on key issues.

Testimonials

Susan Fox

 President & CEO, White Plains Hospital
Chair, Westchester County Association

“The WCA brings community and business leaders together to focus on the issues that are important to the continued growth and strength of Westchester County and the region. And, as members, we really take that to heart. It truly is about pursuing the greater good for our community.”

Susan Parish

President, Mercy University

“WCA is a critical partner in how the county does economic and workforce development. Our priorities are the same: to ensure that Westchester has a workforce prepared to serve the needs of employers and our communities.”

Megan Baldwin

Senior Vice President, Government & Community Relations, WMC Health
Co-Chair, WCA Policy Committee

“You can count on WCA to bring the right people to the table. We identify our common challenges, roll up our sleeves, and work together to create solutions.”

John Emra

President, AT&T, Atlantic Region

“Digital connectivity is not just about infrastructure; it’s about creating opportunity. WCA’s initiatives help underserved populations access workforce training, telehealth, and the digital economy, driving long-term economic growth and equity across the region.”

Jonathan Gertman

Senior Vice President of Development, Northeast, The NRP Group

“We need to address housing affordability and smart development to attract talent and business to Westchester. The WCA finds ways to get to ‘yes’ — for economic opportunities and a high quality of life.”

Justin E. Driscoll

President & CEO, New York Power Authority

“Climate change is a challenge we can’t afford to ignore — it impacts every sector of our economy. Embracing clean energy and resilient practices positions businesses for long-term success while driving growth and protecting our communities.”

Meg Glander

Director of External Affairs, Crown Castle

“In Westchester, digital connectivity is an urban/ suburban issue. From Yorktown to Yonkers, we must solve affordability and access. Our digital conference united federal, state, and local partners, showcasing a ready coalition.”

Ashley Ley

Vice President, Municipal & Land Use Planning, AKRF

“The WCA’s Policy Playbook with its real-world examples of successful, climate-resilient, energy-efficient projects, is an invaluable tool for the public and private sector. It’s my go-to resource.”

Melinda White

SVP & Director, Middle Market Banking Metro NY, Popular Bank

“As a banker, lender, and local resident, I’m invested in Westcheser’s economic betterment. The professionals I work with through the WCA are among the most influential — people who drive change and overcome challenges.”

Joe Simone

President & CEO, Simone Development Companies

“The WCA has brought about unity by fostering collaboration among some of the best minds in Westchester County and the surrounding area to rise to the challenges and the needs of our region.”

Frank P. Micalizzi

 Regional President & SVP, M&T Bank

“WCA offers me the opportunity to exchange ideas and information about the most pressing issues facing the business community and local residents. Most importantly, WCA is then able to bring the tools and advocacy that makes Westchester and the region the best place to live, work, and play.”

Dr. Belinda S. Miles

 President, Westchester Community College

“Westchester Community College is proud to partner with WCA in developing a strong, diverse workforce that fuels the engines of our county’s businesses. WCA serves as a vital conduit for informing the College of workforce development needs and promotes the high quality of workers who attain their skills and credentials through the College.”

Ramata Dumbuy

Optician Assistant, Raymond Opticians
HTTP, Participant

“The HTTP program gave me hope. My confidence has skyrocketed. It’s a program that will positively impact anyone, regardless of background.”

Aveionce

HTTP, Participant

“I’ve moved from White Plains Hospital to Northwell Health/Northern Westchester Hospital, where I support a cardiology office with 28 providers across subspecialties. I’m currently the primary assistant for two pulmonary physicians, Dr. Ishikawa and Dr. Li, and occasionally cover the Emergency Department on weekends. I now earn $29.50/hr, with opportunities for growth as I near the end of my nursing program. Feel free to reach out for more details to support the program’s success.”

Amy Allen

Vice President, WCA

“The WCA sees our region as the leading destination for hospitals, healthcare providers, and healthcare workers. In 2025, our goals are to build on our successful advocacy efforts, help our providers meet their hiring needs by growing strong regional talent pipelines, and focus on the importance of health equity and social determinants of health.”

Derek Anderson

Executive Director, Northern Westchester Hospital / Northwell

“Clearly, there’s been a need to retool for changes in technology, demographic shifts, and regulatory pressures, but with WCA’s help, we’ve consistently partnered with educational institutions to build new and needed programs that are starved for talent today.”

William V. Cuddy, Jr.

Executive Vice President, CBRE Chair, WCA Real Estate Task Force

“Because the WCA is leading the affordable conversation statewide and locally, we’re seeing real movement that goes beyond strategy.”

Robin White

Director of External Affairs, AT&T
Co-Chair, WCA’s Digital Connectivity Committee

“There’s a big gap in the community. Our team’s priority is to make connectivity possible so people can leverage opportunity and participate in the new economy.”

Christopher B. Fisher

Managing Partner, Cuddy & Feder LLP
Vice Chair, WCA

“We’re not just centered on digital equity; we look at how digital equity translates into economic and business development in Westchester County… “We connect the unconnected to better healthcare, education, and employment, and provide a digital pipeline to our county’s biggest employers, service providers, and the internet economy.”

Jason Chapin

Director of Workforce Development, WCA

“It’s all about creating a local talent ecosystem and pushing for regulatory changes that will ease the shortage…We’re focused on employer needs, which means we need to start that pipeline earlier, even as early as high school.”

Mary Amato

Partner, CohnReznick
Co-Chair, WCA Workforce Development Committee

“All these efforts are helping us to reach the right candidates, who are vested and familiar with the community, instead of our having to compete with New York City.”

Ashish Arora

CFA Senior Vice President, Bank of America
Chair, WCA’s Committee on Energy & Sustainability

“We advanced our education and advocacy goals by successfully hosting the Profit and Purpose conference and by revising the Policy Playbook to be leveraged by local officials and real estate developers in coming up with sustainable building standards for the region.”

Kristen Motel

Partner, Cuddy & Feder LLP
Co-Chair, WCA’s Real Estate Sustainability Working Group

“The impact of climate change is top of mind for all of us, as resilience is not optimal anymore … ESG is here to stay. The WCA is ahead of the curve in preparing everyone for a more sustainable economy.”

WCA Chairpersons

2021 - Present

Susan Fox

White Plains Hospital
2012 - 2021

William P. Harrington

Bleakley Platt & Schmidt, LLP
2007 - 2012

Alfred B. DelBello

DelBello, Donnellan, Weigarten, Wise & Wiederkehr
2005 - 2007

Stanley E. Freimuth

FujiFilm U.S.A.
2001 - 2005

Andrew G. Robel

Merril Lynch
1999 - 2000

Marshall C. Phelps, Jr.

Spencer Trask Intellectual Capital Corportion
1994 - 1999

William F. Plunkett, Jr., CEO

Plunkett & Jaffe, P.C.
1994

William M. Mooney

JPMorganChase
1990 - 1992

George J. Delaney

Consolidated Edison Company
1988 - 1990

George H.C. Lawrence

Lawrence Investigating Company, Inc.
1986 - 1988

William F. Olson

Peoples Westchester Savings Bank
1982 - 1984

Wallace C. Doud

IBM Corporation
1980 - 1982

Sydney P. Mudd

Joyce Beverages
1979 – 1980

Dr. Arthur B. Steele

Union Carbide Corporation
1978 – 1979

Kent Rhodes

The Reader’s Digest Association
1976 – 1978

James R. Hand

National Bank of Westchester
1974 – 1976

Danby C. Osborn

Home Savings Bank
1972 – 1974

Edward R. Weidlein, Jr.

Union Carbide Corporation
1969 – 1972

Albert J. Hall

Burnham Corporation
1968 – 1969

Frank D. Cooney, Jr

Cooney Brothers, Inc.
1967 – 1968

William S. Dowling, Jr.

Burroughs Wellcome & Co.
1965 – 1967

Walter A. Stanley

W.A. Stanley Construction Company
1963 – 1965

Frederic B. Powers

Rawlplug Company
1961 – 1963

Owen A. Mandebille

Owen A. Mandeville, Inc.
1959 – 1961

Colby B. Kalloch

New York Telephone
1957 – 1959

Robert H. Burdsall

Russell, Burdsall & Ward Nut & Bolt Co.
1956 – 1957

Howard B. Fonda

Burroughs Wellcome & Co
1955 – 1956

Louis A. Scofield

Westchester Lighting Company
1950 – 1954

Edward P. Prezzano

Westchester Lighting Company
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