HIA-LI, one of the recognized voices for Long Island business and a powerful force for regional economic development, has welcomed five accomplished professionals to its Board of Directors for 2026. The new board members bring a wide range of expertise across a myriad of Long Island business sectors, further strengthening HIA-LI’s role as an advocate for the region’s business community.
“HIA-LI continues to benefit from leaders who bring both strategic insight and a genuine commitment to Long Island,” said Terri Alessi-Miceli, President and CEO of HIA-LI. “This new group of board members reflects the depth and diversity of talent across our region. Their collective experience will help guide our organization as we address the evolving needs of employers and communities alike.”
Anthony Manetta, HIA-LI Board Chairperson, added, “Strong leadership is essential to meaningful advocacy. These new board members represent key sectors that drive Long Island’s economy, and each brings a thoughtful, solutions-oriented perspective. We are fortunate to have them lend their expertise to HIA-LI’s work.”
The five new members joining the HIA-LI Board of Directors are:
Babak D. Beheshti, Ph.D., of Bethpage, is Dean and Professor of the College of Engineering and Computing Sciences at New York Institute of Technology, based in Old Westbury. With more than three decades of experience in engineering education and academic leadership, Dr. Beheshti has been instrumental in expanding NYIT’s academic offerings, including programs in artificial intelligence, civil engineering, and doctoral-level studies. A strong advocate for career-focused education, he has built partnerships between higher education and industry to better prepare students for workforce demands.
Dawn Cagliano, of Brookhaven Hamlet, is President of IVCi, headquartered in Hauppauge. Since joining the company in 2006, Cagliano has advanced through multiple leadership roles, culminating in her appointment as President in 2024, the first woman to hold that position in the company’s history. She is widely respected for her operational expertise, client-focused leadership style, and commitment to professional development. Cagliano also serves on the board of the National Systems Contractors Association Education Foundation, supporting workforce and leadership development in the commercial integration industry.
Timothy M. Foley, of Mineola, is Long Island Business Banking Market Executive for Bank of America, based in Melville. In this role, Foley leads teams that deliver integrated financial solutions to help businesses improve cash flow, invest in growth, and plan for the future. He holds degrees from Long Island University, the University of California, Berkeley, and Columbia University, and is actively engaged in the community through leadership roles with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Long Island and the Mineola Lions Club.
Katherine M. Fritz, of Brookhaven Hamlet, is President and Chief Executive Officer of Long Island Cares, Inc. – The Harry Chapin Regional Food Bank, based in Hauppauge. With more than 30 years of experience in nonprofit leadership, development, and communications, Fritz has dedicated her career to strengthening mission-driven organizations. As President and CEO, she is leading Long Island Cares through its next chapter, focused on collaboration, equity, and long-term solutions to food insecurity across Nassau and Suffolk Counties.
Robert McBride, of Northport, is Founder and Chief Executive Officer of McBride Consulting & Business Development Group, based in Babylon. A seasoned entrepreneur and business strategist, McBride has worked across a broad range of industries, including energy, construction, transportation, real estate, and health care. His experience also includes advising public-sector leaders on complex initiatives and public-private partnerships, bringing a practical, results-driven approach to organizational leadership.
ABOUT HIA-LI
Now in its 47th year, HIA-LI is one of Long Island’s largest business advocacy organizations. It also represents the Long Island Innovation Park at Hauppauge, the largest industrial park in the Northeast. The park supports 55,000 jobs, produces $13 billion in goods and services each year, and accounts for eight percent of Long Island’s gross domestic product. For more information, go to www.HIA-LI.org.
