Meet The Team
Stacey Sikes
Board Chair, Accelerate Long Island
A seasoned leader in government, higher education, and nonprofit sectors, Stacey Sikes serves as Chair of the Accelerate Long Island Board. She also holds the role of Vice President of Government Affairs at the Long Island Association, where she drives public policy and innovation initiatives.
David Calone
CEO, Jove Equity Partners LLC
David Calone leads Jove Equity Partners LLC, a venture capital firm focused on investing in cutting-edge healthcare and technology startups across the U.S. With a strong track record in innovation-driven industries, David plays a pivotal role in accelerating growth for the companies he supports.
Matt Cohen
President & CEO, Long Island Association
Since May 2021, Matt Cohen has served as the President and CEO of the Long Island Association (LIA), the region’s foremost business advocacy group. Under his leadership, LIA continues to champion economic growth and innovation throughout Long Island.
Susan Poser
President, Hofstra University
Appointed by the Hofstra University Board of Trustees, Susan Poser began her tenure as President on August 1, 2021. She brings a forward-thinking approach to higher education and a deep commitment to academic leadership.
Bruce Stillman
President, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory
Dr. Bruce Stillman brings scientific excellence to his role as President of Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory. A native of Australia, he holds a Ph.D. from the John Curtin School of Medical Research and has made significant contributions to biomedical research and academic leadership.
Jerry Ward
Partner, Ernst & Young LLP
Jerry Ward is a licensed CPA in New York and a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. With a degree in accounting from Dowling College, he brings financial acumen and regulatory expertise to his role at Ernst & Young.
Steve Winick
Managing Director, Topspin Partners
Steve Winick brings deep industry expertise to Topspin Partners, where he serves as Managing Director. His previous executive roles include leading Honeywell International’s $2 billion Security Group, underscoring his leadership in high-growth ventures.
Leo Guthart
Founder & CEO, Topspin Partners
Leo Guthart is the visionary behind Topspin Partners, where he serves as Founder and CEO. His career includes leadership roles such as President, CEO, and Chairman of Ademco Security Group, highlighting a legacy of innovation and executive excellence.
Michael Dowling
President & CEO, Northwell Health
Michael Dowling oversees one of the nation’s largest and most respected healthcare systems. As President and CEO of Northwell Health, he leads a network known for delivering world-class clinical care across the New York metropolitan area.
Nancy Rauch-Douzinas
Director, Accelerate Long Island
After two decades as a psychologist and family therapist, Nancy Rauch-Douzinas turned her focus to philanthropy and community development. As Director of Accelerate Long Island and leader of the Rauch Foundation, she has been instrumental in shaping initiatives that foster regional innovation.
Hank Foley
President, New York Institute of Technology
Dr. Henry “Hank” Foley holds advanced degrees in chemistry from Providence College, Purdue University, and Penn State. In addition to leading NYIT, he contributes his expertise as a board member for several prominent organizations, including Providence College and regional development entities.
Charles M. Strain
Managing Partner, Farrell Fritz & Board Member, Accelerate Long Island
Charles Strain is a respected legal and civic leader. As Managing Partner at Farrell Fritz and a longtime board member for Accelerate Long Island, he’s also known for his service as Chairman of Winthrop-University Hospital’s Board of Directors.
Management Team
Michelle Byrne
Finance Director ALI, CFO LIA Partners
Michelle Byrne manages financial operations across multiple organizations, including her dual role as Finance Director for Accelerate Long Island and Chief Financial Officer for the Long Island Association. She brings strategic oversight and fiscal leadership to both institutions.
Dan Lloyd
Program Director, Accelerate Long Island
Dan Lloyd connects startups with the resources they need to thrive. He leads networking events and supports commercialization efforts throughout Long Island, managing a diverse portfolio of high-tech ventures through the Accelerate New York Seed Fund.