HIA-LI, a powerful force for Long Island business and regional economic development, has welcomed five new leaders to its Board of Directors.
“This new group of board members reflects the depth and diversity of talent across our region,” said Terri Alessi-Miceli, HIA-LI president and CEO.
Meet the new directors:
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.
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 also serves on the board of the National Systems Contractors Association Education Foundation.
Timothy M. Foley, of Mineola, is Long Island business banking market executive for Bank of America, based in Melville. 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.