Governor Hochul Presents WCA with Proclamation at
Westchester’s Premier Business Event

Milestone evening honors regional changemakers, highlights IBM keynote
on innovation and AI, and ushers in new board leadership

(November 20, 2025 – New Rochelle, NY) — More than 450 business, nonprofit, and government leaders gathered at Glen Island Harbour Club on November 19 for the Westchester County Association’s (WCA) “Impact in Action” Annual Leadership Event—the capstone celebration of the organization’s 75th anniversary. A highlight of the evening was the attendance of New York Governor Kathy Hochul, who presented the WCA with an official proclamation recognizing its 75 years of leadership and partnership in strengthening the region’s economy.

Governor Hochul praised the milestone, saying, “What a celebration, a storied history of this organization over the last 75 years and what a transformation this county has seen in that time. As I come out here tonight, I look out and I see the people who are driving the change and its reputation, which is stellar. I mean, so many people want to live in this great County and it really punches above its weight.”

She also highlighted the WCA’s role in advocacy and collaboration, noting, “I appreciated meeting with Mike and others to bring together people who are really saying, yes, we want to be housing communities. This is a trusted organization that when they need something out of our state capitol, they want to meet the governor or my team. We open the doors wide because we know who you’re representing and how important that is. I’m going to continue being a strong ally.”

Looking ahead, Governor Hochul emphasized the county’s potential, stating, “This is an extraordinary county, an extraordinary business group… great potential, but it can be unlocked even more if we allow more people to unlock the doors of a new home in this County.”

The event program spotlighted WCA’s history of leadership, innovation, and impact while recognizing the people and partnerships shaping the region’s economic future. In welcoming remarks, Susan Fox, WCA Board Chair and President & CEO of White Plains Hospital, noted the WCA’s accomplishments in 2025 and reflected on its enduring legacy.

“This year marked a defining moment for the WCA,” said Fox. “For 75 years, the WCA has united leaders to build infrastructure, strengthen our workforce, and grow a vibrant economy. This year, we connected thousands of residents to broadband, protected vital healthcare funding, expanded our talent pipeline programs, advanced affordable housing and smart growth, and strengthened the partnerships that make Westchester thrive. Tonight, we celebrate that progress and the people carrying it forward.”

The program also featured a keynote address by Ed Lovely, Chief Data Officer at IBM, representing the WCA’s founding members. He spoke about how trusted data and responsible AI are transforming the way organizations operate and compete. Lovely highlighted how AI is helping businesses work smarter, boost productivity, and unlock new avenues for growth. His remarks emphasized the importance of innovation, technology, and collaboration in building a resilient, future-ready economies.

Honoring Leadership and Impact

Michael N. Romita, WCA President & CEO, presented the Founders Legacy Award to the organizations whose early leadership helped establish the WCA’s foundation and enduring influence: Bleakley Platt & Schmidt, LLP; Con Edison; Construction Industry Council of Westchester and Hudson Valley Inc.; IBM; Sarah Lawrence College; The Building and Realty Institute; The Journal News/lohud; and Turner Construction.

Andrew Weisz, President of RPW Group, and Brad K. Schwartz, Esq., Partner at Zarin & Steinmetz LLP, presented the New Leader Trailblazer Award to Steven M. Wrabel, Esq., Partner at McCullough, Goldberger & Staudt, LLP, honoring his advocacy for smart growth, innovation, and mentorship as a founding member of the WCA’s New Leaders Roundtable.

Georgette Gouveia, writer, Westfair Communications, and William V. Cuddy Jr., Executive Vice President at CBRE, presented the Alfred B. DelBello Visionary Award to Joan McDonald, Director of Operations for Westchester County, recognizing her leadership in advancing economic vitality, infrastructure resilience, and community development across the region.

“These honorees reflect the best of Westchester—visionary, committed leaders whose work strengthens our economy and communities,” said Romita. “Their achievements remind us that progress happens when business, government, and nonprofit leaders come together around shared purpose.”

A Milestone Year of Progress

The WCA’s 75th anniversary year showcased measurable achievements across its five strategic pillars—digital connectivity, healthcare, real estate and housing, sustainability, and workforce development. Among the highlights:

  • Expanded broadband access for more than 7,500 households through Connect Westchester, helping close the region’s digital divide.
  • Strengthened the healthcare workforce by training 375 job seekers and placing 300+ residents in high-demand healthcare positions through the Healthcare Talent Pipeline Program.
  • Advanced affordable housing and smart growth through the “Five in 2025” campaign and new training for regional leaders on zoning, resiliency, and sustainable development.
  • Mobilized the business community on sustainability, hosting Profit & Purpose ’25 and launching the Actionable Solutions Competition with Pace University to foster climate innovation.
  • Connected employers and educators through WCA’s 1000 Jobs Challenge, workforce summits, and job fairs, engaging 500+ job and internship seekers and generating over $20 million in economic impact.

Leadership Transition

The evening also ushered in a new era of board leadership as Susan Fox completed her four-year term as Board Chair and Christopher B. Fisher, Esq., Partner at Cuddy & Feder LLP, assumed the role of incoming Chair. A decades-long active member of the WCA, Fisher has served the past four years as Vice Chair, working alongside Fox to advance the organization’s strategic priorities, strengthen member engagement, and grow its impact across the region. Known for his ability to align policy and law to achieve business goals, he has become a key figure shaping forward-thinking policies across Westchester and the broader Hudson Valley region.

A recognized leader and expert in digital infrastructure and real estate development, Fisher has been instrumental in advancing the WCA’s Digital Connectivity initiative, expanding broadband access, and advocating for smart growth policies that keep Westchester competitive. He has also played a key role in enhancing the member experience—supporting engagement, expanding programming, and ensuring the WCA continues to meet the evolving needs of its members.

“Susan’s leadership has strengthened the WCA and the entire business community,” said Fisher. “I’ve had the privilege of working closely with Susan and Michael over the last several years, and I look forward to building on our progress—advancing the infrastructure, technology, talent, and partnerships that will shape a smarter, stronger, future-ready Westchester.”

Romita noted that Fisher’s appointment comes at a pivotal time for Westchester’s economy, as the region experiences continued growth in housing, infrastructure, and workforce investment.

“As we close our 75th anniversary year, the WCA remains focused on the future—driving investment in clean energy, housing, healthcare, and economic opportunity, and ensuring Westchester continues to lead as a model for smart, inclusive growth,” added Romita. “Susan has led us through a period of rapid growth and a crystal-clear focus on impact. She demands your very best and gives you hers. Now, with Chris Fisher, our next chapter begins with tremendous momentum.”

For more information about the Westchester County Association and its initiatives, visit westchester.org.

About the Westchester County Association

The Westchester County Association is the most influential professional membership organization in Westchester and the surrounding region. We unite professional leaders to advance issues and lead initiatives that strengthen our regional economy.  Our mission is to drive Westchester’s economic vitality, stimulate new business development and job creation, and provide our members with the resources and talent they need to grow. For more information about the Westchester County Association, visit westchester.org.