A Note from ELT
As we transition from a summer of innovation and outreach to the vibrant start of fall, we want to take a moment to reflect on our accomplishments and express our heartfelt gratitude for your unwavering dedication.
The Griffiss Institute is dedicated to driving our mission forward with a significant regional and national impact through the collective efforts of our teams. Our commitment to talent development, technology transfer, and venture development is evident in our outreach initiatives, which have engaged over 700 STEM camp graduates and supported 1,390 collegiate and graduate interns while empowering 52 tech startups over the past five years. Together, we are effectively preparing technical talent for the defense industrial base.
This summer, our team actively fostered connections between students, entrepreneurs, and professors with the Department of Defense (DoD) through our tech transfer initiatives. Since planning for the summer of 2024 last year at this time, we successfully hosted 153 events, including 55 Innovare tours, reaching diverse audiences across government, education, and industry. These events advanced our mission and highlighted the critical role a strong talent pipeline plays in national security and technological advancement.
As we move into the fall, we look forward to implementing new strategies to enhance our programs. With our strong social media presence—boasting 858 posts this year—we continue to connect with our community digitally, outperforming benchmarks in nonprofit, higher education, and government sectors. Together, we embrace this season, knowing that great planning leads to great success.
We remain committed to promoting STEM education and facilitating tech transfer that ultimately benefits national security. Let’s continue to stay focused, engaged, and innovative as we continue to develop new opportunities and resources that will shape the future of our students and the communities we serve.
Thank you for your ongoing support and dedication. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the next generation’s lives and the future of our nation.
Griffiss Institute POCs
Tracy DiMeo
Todd Humiston
Mike Feng
Seth Mulligan
Dr. John Salerno
Tim Thomas
Brian Abbe
Kelly Poynter
Pam Mustee
Jennifer Marshall
Ben Graniero
Wendy Carpenter
Makenzi Enos
Tom Kramer
Ashley Springer
Amy James
Melissa Tallman
Dean Korsak
David Semadeni
Heather Hage President & CEO
Mike Wessing Chief Engineer
Todd Humiston Chief Talent Officer
Seth Mulligan Chief Operations Officer
Tracy DiMeo Executive Office Manager
Melissa Tallman Chief Brand Officer
David Semadeni Chief Financial Officer
Tim Thomas Chief Academic Officer
Matthew Mroz Executive Vice President of Strategic Planning
Dean Korsak General Counsel and Corporate Secretary
Angela Wright VP of Intergovernmental Affairs
The Griffiss Institute’s First Philanthropic Initiative Raises over $30,000
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On September 20, 2024, the Griffiss Institute (GI) made a sensational debut in the Mohawk Valley Gives event, a powerful movement launched in 2022 to galvanize community support for our region’s incredible non-profits. By 2024, this movement had blossomed into the Mohawk Valley’s largest day of giving, uniting over 300 organizations in a remarkable celebration of generosity!
Excitement was palpable as GI rallied the community with a high-energy, 24-hour social media-a-thon, led by our dynamic Digital Marketing Associate, Corrine Bush. The day brought unforgettable moments, including the hilarious spectacle of our President and CEO, Heather Hage, delivering a pie in the face of Safety and Security Officer Tom Kramer! LEGO robot races and a spirited march by GI staff kept the energy high and donations flowing.
The goal? To raise funds that empower GI to cultivate the next generation of innovators—scientists, engineers, and entrepreneurs! Every unrestricted donation allows us to channel resources to where they are needed most, enhancing our programs and expanding our outreach. This flexibility ensures we’re ready to tackle emerging challenges and seize new opportunities for STEM, Startups, & Storytelling.
What a weekend it turned out to be! Thanks to the vibrant spirit of our community, we received an outpouring of support through shares, donations, earned prizes, and generous matching funds from AX Enterprize and Hage & Hage, LLC. We surpassed our initial goal of $20,000, raising an astonishing $32,374! That’s 162% of our target.
A massive shoutout to our incredible staff who shared, liked, hashtagged, donated, and infused the campaign with their own stories. This achievement would not have been possible without your unwavering dedication. Together, we’ve met our goal and ignited a fire that will propel us into the new year and beyond. We can’t wait to exceed expectations again at next year’s Mohawk Valley Gives!
Angela Wright and Dean Korsak Join Executive Leadership Team
Griffiss Institute is thrilled to announce two significant appointments that will enhance our efforts to expand our programs and strengthen our governance.
We are pleased to welcome Angela Wright as the new Vice President of Intergovernmental Affairs, a strategic addition aimed at bolstering the VICEROY Scholars program. “Angela’s proven track record in government relations and advocacy will be invaluable as we strengthen our strategic partnerships and expand the reach of our VICEROY Scholars program,” said Heather Hage, President and CEO of Griffiss Institute. “Her expertise will enhance our existing team and help cultivate champions among our university partners and key governmental stakeholders.”
Angela brings a wealth of experience from her previous role as Associate Vice Chancellor for Government Relations at the State University of New York (SUNY). Her extensive background in managing state and federal relations includes leading advocacy campaigns, coordinating legislative efforts, and promoting educational initiatives across SUNY’s 64 campuses. Notable achievements in her career include leading advocacy days in Washington, D.C., overseeing federal research priorities, and enhancing SUNY’s research portfolio through strategic collaborations.
Expressing her enthusiasm for the new role, Angela stated, “I am thrilled to join the Griffiss Institute team and look forward to leveraging my experience to enhance our partnerships and support the growth of the VICEROY Scholars program. This is a unique opportunity to make a lasting impact on STEM education and help cultivate the next generation of leaders.”
Angela holds an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Agricultural Science from SUNY Cobleskill, as well as a Bachelor of Science in Applied Economics and Management and a Master of Professional Studies from Cornell University.
In addition to Angela, we are excited to announce the appointment of Dean Korsak as the new General Counsel and Corporate Secretary to the Board. Dean brings a wealth of experience as a recently retired military officer and supervisory attorney with a robust background in technology and global operations.
In his new role, Dean will oversee the legal affairs of the Griffiss Institute and support the Board of Directors in all aspects of corporate governance. “We are thrilled to welcome Dean Korsak to the Griffiss Institute,” said Heather. “His extensive experience and proven leadership will be invaluable as we continue to advance our mission and strengthen our governance and legal frameworks.”
Dean joins us from the Air Force Research Laboratory in Rome, NY, where he served as Legal Director and Staff Judge Advocate. His career highlights include empowering teams to deploy advanced technology systems and advising on a range of complex legal matters including data privacy, nuclear facilities, and missile defense architecture.
“I am excited to join the Griffiss Institute and contribute to its mission of advancing national defense and economic impact,” Dean remarked. “It is deeply rewarding to empower world-class researchers and propel the next generation of scientists and engineers. Griffiss is a leader in creating the future of technology.”
Dean holds a Master of Laws from Columbia Law School, a Juris Doctor from Mississippi College School of Law, and a Bachelor of Science from Liberty University, along with various military education credentials.
With the addition of Angela and Dean, Griffiss Institute is well-positioned to enhance its programs and navigate the complexities of governance and advocacy. We are excited about the future and the contributions both will bring to our mission!
Dean Korsak General Counsel and Corporate Secretary
Angela Wright Vice President of Intergovernmental Affairs
Partnership with B3K Prosperity Aims to Grow The Aerospace Innovation Economy
B3K Prosperity has announced an exciting partnership with the Griffiss Institute to establish an Aerospace Innovation Hub in East Kern, focused on enhancing tech transfer and commercialization of innovations from the region’s defense and civil research installations. This initiative is backed by a $2 million federal appropriation from the 2024 National Defense Authorization Act, thanks to the support of former Congressman Kevin McCarthy.
“Launching our Aerospace Innovation Hub is a significant milestone for us,” said Justin Salters, B3K’s interim Executive Director. “It will help us unlock the untapped potential for tech transfer in East Kern and the Antelope Valley, boosting our aerospace and defense innovation economy and creating quality jobs for residents from all backgrounds.”
The Griffiss Institute, known for its role as a premier STEM talent and technology accelerator for the U.S. Department of Defense, will play a crucial role in this partnership. The Institute manages the Innovare Advancement Center, which serves as a collaborative hub for innovation and research. This center connects a diverse range of partners from academia, government, and industry, facilitating projects that advance defense technology and disruptive innovation.
Through its Partnership Intermediary Agreement with the Air Force Research Laboratory, the Griffiss Institute promotes collaboration and technology transfer between federal R&D entities and other stakeholders. The B3K Aerospace Innovation Hub will leverage this framework, with plans already underway to establish additional partnerships with regional R&D assets.
Matthew Mroz, Executive Vice President for Strategic Programs at the Griffiss Institute, shared his enthusiasm, “We have seen firsthand the positive economic impact when a region harnesses the potential of local R&D. We are excited to partner with B3K to launch this Innovation Hub and tap into the incredible innovation already occurring in the region.”
East Kern and the Antelope Valley are home to key aerospace and defense assets, including the Mojave Air and Space Port, Edwards Air Force Base, and Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake. Despite these strengths, B3K’s 2020 Market Assessment revealed that Kern County significantly underperforms in tech transfer and commercialization compared to peer regions. The Aerospace Innovation Hub will be pivotal in addressing this gap and enhancing the region’s competitiveness.
The partnership plans to utilize funding for various activities that promote tech transfer, including organizing Hack-a-Thons, sponsoring accelerator programs, scouting new technologies, and supporting internships and fellowships. Additionally, B3K plans to establish a physical location in East Kern that will serve as a “onestop” resource center for entrepreneurs, inventors, and students seeking to access technology and support for commercialization efforts.
“This is just the beginning,” Salters emphasized. “We look forward to collaborating with our partners at all levels to advance our aerospace innovation economy and drive sustainable, inclusive growth for our region.”
Through this partnership, B3K and the Griffiss Institute aim to foster an environment that encourages innovation and economic development, ultimately changing the trajectory of East Kern’s economy.
Top HUSTLE Teams from Cohort 3 Awarded Thousands in Prize Money
The Griffiss Institute proudly celebrated the achievements of eight tech companies that completed the HUSTLE Defense Accelerator program during HUSTLE Pitch Day on August 15, 2024. This immersive 12-week program, designed for emerging tech startups focused on national security, has gained significant momentum with the support of partners such as the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), Empire State Development (ESD), and National Grid.
The HUSTLE Defense Accelerator equips startups with the tools and resources needed to align their technologies with national defense requirements, offering technical expertise and valuable networking opportunities. With financial backing from ESD and National Grid, this initiative empowers these startups to drive technological breakthroughs and enhance local economic growth.
2024 HUSTLE winners on the Emerge Track included Marhold Space Systems and Triarii AI, whom each secured $25,000 to further develop their innovative ideas. Artificial Brain took home the grand prize of $100,000 promising significant advancements in AI.
From the Elevate Track, 2024 HUSTLE winners included Archangel Response Corp., taking home $100,000 and positioning itself as a pivotal player in the tech sector. Drone City claimed the grand prize of $250,000, which will accelerate their innovations in the drone industry.
HUSTLE Pitch Day not only showcased the groundbreaking ideas from the 2024 cohort but also fostered a festive atmosphere with local refreshments and networking opportunities open to the public.
“I am immensely proud of these exceptional teams,” said Heather Hage, President & CEO. “Their creativity and resilience will enhance national security while shaping the future of technology in the Mohawk Valley.”
Seth Mulligan, Senior Director of Innovation & Partnerships at Griffiss, emphasized the transformative nature of the program, noting, “Their dedication and innovative breakthroughs set a new standard in national security technology.”
Hope Knight, President and CEO of ESD, praised the accomplishments of the teams, affirming, “By supporting competitions like HUSTLE, we are investing in the region’s innovation economy and establishing New York as a leader in national security technology.”
Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. highlighted the program’s impact on local economic development, stating, “These startups are creating opportunities that will benefit our region for generations.”
Dr. Michael Hayduk, Deputy Director Air Force Research Laboratory Information Directorate noted, “The progress made by these entrepreneurs is a testament to public-private partnerships, ensuring a robust future for defense technology.”
Alberto Bianchetti, National Grid’s regional director, reiterated the importance of supporting innovation, stating, “The startups emerging from HUSTLE are catalysts for a more secure future, and their success will enhance local economies.”
The HUSTLE Defense Accelerator continues to serve as a critical platform for seed-stage tech startups specializing in artificial intelligence, machine learning, cybersecurity, and more. This year’s eight selected startups demonstrated their potential to elevate U.S. national security and competitiveness, marking a promising future for innovation in the Mohawk Valley.
HUSTLE 2024 Winners Pose Together on HUSTLE Pitch Day
ORION Ribbon Cutting
August 23, 2024, Open-Architecture Resilient IoT for Operational Networks (ORION) officially launched with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at its NTROPEE facility in Rome, NY. This event marked the establishment of the region’s first cross-organizational tech partnership focused on the Internet of Things (IoT), which connects devices for improved communication and efficiency in everyday tasks.
ORION aims to transform the tech landscape by addressing critical challenges in the IoT industry, boosting economic growth, creating jobs, and attracting investment. “Leading ORION has been rewarding, showcasing how innovation can transform the IoT landscape,” said Anthony Macera, Director of ORION.
The initiative is a collaboration between the Air Force Research Laboratory, Assured Information Security, Quanterion Solutions, the Griffiss Institute, and the New York State Technology Enterprise Corporation, supported by $5 million in federal funding.
Senator Schumer emphasized ORION’s role in enhancing national security and positioning the Mohawk Valley as a hub for IoT innovation. Local leaders, including Oneida County Executive Anthony Picente and Rome Mayor Jeffery Lanigan, highlighted the project’s potential to drive economic development.
With ORION, Central New York is poised to set new standards in IoT and cybersecurity, showcasing the power of collaboration to drive technological advancement.
‘Women Investing in Women’ Returns in November
2023 Women Investing in Women Grant Recipients
At the Griffiss Institute, we are thrilled to be a proud partner of the Women’s Fund of Herkimer and Oneida Counties in their inspiring initiative, “Women Investing in Women.” Launched in 2022, this grant opportunity is dedicated to empowering female entrepreneurs and helping them flourish in their small businesses, all while boosting our local economy.
We’re excited to announce that for the third consecutive year, we will be hosting the Women Investing in Women awards ceremony at the Innovare Advancement Center. This event is not just a celebration; it’s a showcase of the incredible talent and determination of women-owned businesses in our region.
Joining us as partners are Baird Private Wealth Management and UpMobility Foundation, who share our commitment to fostering growth and opportunity for women in business.
We encourage all Griffiss Institute staff to join us for this important event on November 13th, 2024, at 12:00 PM. This is a wonderful opportunity to engage with our community, connect with fellow supporters, and show our enthusiasm for local small businesses that drive innovation and economic vitality.
Anthony Macera Speaking at the ORION Ribbon Cutting
Culture Club Update
Culture Club has been reminiscing about the accomplishments they had in 2024 and how they can increase their effectiveness going forward into 2025. Both the small and big wins are being taken into consideration and they are excited to see what the next year brings for the Griffiss Institute.
The seven members who currently make up Culture Club include: Ashley Springer, Ashley LaForce, Corrine Bush, Jennifer Marshall, Tom Kramer, Ariana Belluscio, and Eric Royer.
Culture Club is also looking for more members. If you want to join in on the chance to make a difference in the Griffiss Culture, please contact Ashley Springer via email at aspringer@griffissinstitute.org.
Keep your eyes out for more information and fun opportunities that will be coming out in 2024-2025 from your Culture Club!
LOOKING AHEAD
October 30th, Griffiss Institute will be holding their 2nd annual Halloween Party filled with snacks, games, costumes and fun galore. This get-together will have opportunities for both remote and in-person employees to participate!
Griffiss Institute Staff Celebrating Halloween in 2023
The Giggling Griffin
How clever are you? Can you figure out the answers to these silly jokes before discovering the answers on the bottom of this page?
#1 Why did the scarecrow get promoted?
#2
It’s Poll Time!
What is your favorite fall/winter holiday?
Join in the fun and answer this edition’s burning question... Submit answers here!
You’re a bus driver on a fall leaf tour. At the first stop 4 people get on. At the second stop 8 people get on, at the third stop 2 people get off and, at the forth stop everyone got off. The question is what color are the bus driver’s eyes? #1 He was out standing in his field! #2 The same as yours, you’re the bsu driver
Upcoming Events
Wearable IoT for Healthcare and Defense Workshop | October 10, 9:00am-4:00pm
Innovare Advancement Center - Event Center
Coffee & Concepts | October 17, 10:00-11:00AM
Innovare Advancement Center - The Hive
Guest speaker: William Durgin, SUNY Polytechnic Institute
*RI Industry Day | October 21
Innovare Advancement Center - Event Center
Colonel Greg Stevens, Commander at AFRL/RI, will provide welcome and briefing followed by Dr. Hayduk. Staff is encouraged to attend this portion.
*Must register and provide GI Cage Code. Registration coming soon.
3rd Annual Women Investing in Women Award Ceremony | November 13, 12:00pm
Innovare Advancement Center - Event Center
Coffee & Concepts | November 7, 10:00-11:00AM
Innovare Advancement Center - The Hive
Guest speaker: TBD
Coffee & Concepts |November 21, 10:00-11:00AM
Innovare Advancement Center - The Hive
Guest speaker: Clyde Vanderpool, Northrop Grumman
Tales of the Griffin
What does our dear mascot do in the off-hours? What happens when we all leave the office for the night?
Griffin After Hours
All the Happenings
Work Anniversaries
1 YEAR
Brady Shuck - 9/18
2 YEARS
Kate Kogge - 9/1
Katie Morrissette - 10/17
Birthdays
Katie Morrissette - 9/6
Kate Kogge - 9/10
Brady Shuck - 9/22
Dixie Holmes - 9/27
Jennifer Matice - 9/27
Kelly Poynter - 10/11
Seth Mulligan - 10/15
New Hireswelcome
Dean Korsak, General Counsel and Coporate Secretary
Angela Wright, Vice President of Intergovernmental Affairs
Staff Spotlight
How long have you been working at the Griffiss Institute?
I will be celebrating two years with the Griffiss Institute at the end of December.
Tell us a little about what you do here:
In my role I work to achieve the mission and goals of the DAF LEGACY (Department of the Air Force Leadership Experience Growing Apprenticeships Committed to Youth) and AFRL/RI STEM programs. Though these are two separate programs, they both work within the STEM pipeline to inspire youth with hands-on learning opportunities and encourage future generations to pursue STEM careers.
What is your favorite part of working at the GI?
My favorite part of working at the GI is being able to have a nation-wide impact. Although I have lived in Rome for my
entire life, I am still able to charge positive impacts on STEM students and my coworkers across the United States.
What are your hobbies outside of work?
I enjoy fishing, watching movies, and spending time with my family.
Do you have any pets? If not, what kind of pet would you like to have?
I two pets: A Mali Uromastyx named Sunshine and a soon to be one year old Great Dane named Maddison (aka Maddie the Baddie – if you have a puppy Great Dane you just understand lol)
What is your favorite song?
Favorite song .. this one is tough there are so many good ones. I love anything that gives nostalgic vibes, but if I had to pick one song it would be Drops of Jupiter by Train
Recommend one of your favorite local (to you!) businesses: Tex Mex Rio Grande in Washington Mills [NY] –their burritos would be my last meal hands down.
Makenzi Enos Talent Division - LEGACY, RI STEM Talent Division Program Analyst
TheGriffin Crossword Puzzle
For your enjoyment each issue of The Griffin will have an interactive game donning some of the best trivia around. Complete it on your own or with friends... But most important have fun with it! Click the puzzle below or head to: https://puzzel.org/crossword/play?p=-O7ngAiZjVzrGiRLubCA to play virtually.
across
6 What you typically carve into a pumpkin
8 The name Fall is in reference to the time of year when deciduous trees shed these
9 Less commonly known as All Hallows’ Eve
10 The Jewish New Year festival help in September
down
1 A global movement that aims to encourage people to spread generosity through philanthropy on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving
2 This seasonal flavor can be found in everything from coffee to M&Ms
3 Popular film genre that thrives leading up Halloween
4 The season in which crops are gathered
5 An unofficial season for the weeks between when the last leaf falls and before snow, popularized by singer-songwriter Noah Kahan
Editor & Publisher: Pam Mustee
Content & Design: Ashley LaForce and Darian Deeley
Photo & Video Production: Mike Betro
Graphic Design: Darian Deeley and Corrine Bush
If you are interested in submitting a story, announcement, update, or other item to The Griffin, please submit your request to GI News found on the GI Corporate Dashboard. If you have any questions or would like addtional information, please contact marketing@griffissinstitute.org.
The Griffin is a publication of the Griffiss Institute MarCom Department. All information herein is reported to the best of our ability and knowledge. Should you have changes or corrections please direct them to Pam Mustee, Marketing and Communications Manager.
The Griffiss Institute
