IgniteU was thrilled to attend and support the 2026 NYSEDC Annual Meeting in Cooperstown, NY. Victoria Palasieski and Shae Brown were joined by Erin Bruce, representing NYSTEC, and Manna Doyle and Mercy McInnis, representing the Empire APEX Accelerator, to network with economic development professionals from across the state. Throughout the event, our team shared information about IgniteU, the Empire APEX Accelerator, and NYSTEC services, helping to strengthen connections and highlight the support we provide to communities and organizations across New York.
Hi! My name is Ella Halpern and I am a junior at Rensselaer Polytechnic institute (RPI). I’m majoring in business management and science, technology, and society. I am originally from Longmeadow, Massachusetts but have relocated to Troy, NY for school and work. At RPI, I did undergraduate research for a sustainability/business podcasts and serve as the Vice President of Community Relations for my sorority, Pi Beta Phi. Outside of school I love to read (my goal is to read 60 books this year), running, and trying new restaurants. This summer I am most looking forward to meeting everyone and getting great work experience!
Hi everyone! My name is Maverick Douglas, but everyone can call me Mav. I am a PhD student at CUNY Graduate Center in their Developmental Psychology program, going into my second year this fall. I was originally born and raised in a small town in Southern Vermont, I lived in Burlington, VT for a couple years, moved to Florida for a time, and then lived in Albany, NY before moving to Brooklyn for school.
I have always been passionate about research, and have enjoyed work where there isn’t always a clear cut answer and I am able to spend time searching and learning. This is a skill I’m looking forward to bringing to NYSTEC. I am looking forward to learning with everyone at NYSTEC and expanding my skills (and maybe start figuring out what I want to do once I’m finished with school). I enjoy reading, art, and most recently exploring NYC for the first time! I have two cats named Sherlock Holmes and Alec Lightwood, named for two of my favorite book characters and who will likely attempt to take over any remote meetings I take part in. I’m looking forward to meeting everyone and getting started!
New episodes now available!
In this episode, Lieutenant Colonel Michael Hutchinson joins us to discuss how artificial intelligence is reshaping the workforce and creating new opportunities across education, technology, public service, and industry. He shares insights on the skills learners of all ages need to thrive in an AI-driven world and how adaptability, confidence, and emerging technologies are shaping the future of work.
Dayna Maniccia and Victoria Palasieski attended the Annual Bronx Bankers Breakfast in support of Bronx Week, joining regional leaders, community organizations, and business professionals in celebrating the borough’s continued growth and impact. The event provided an opportunity to strengthen connections within the Bronx community while highlighting the importance of collaboration between education, workforce development, and local business initiatives. Attendance also helped further IgniteU’s ongoing efforts to build relationships and support economic development opportunities throughout New York State.
IgniteU attended the Albany Business Review 40 Under 40 event, where NYSTEC served as a presenting sponsor. We were able to share information about the program and increasing visibility among attendees. The event provided an opportunity for NYSTEC and IgniteU to be represented and to support a regional event recognizing emerging leaders across the Capital Region.
