Stevens has an extensive understanding of the State University of New York (SUNY) System, having worked in various roles throughout the system. Her wealth of institutional and higher education knowledge, her 15 years of working with the SBDC and SUNY Research Foundation, and her commitment will be instrumental in helping to oversee the statewide NYSBDC network.
"I am thrilled and humbled by my new appointment at the NYSBDC, a network I am deeply passionate about and committed to. With my knowledge of the SBDC network and the higher education system that supports it, I eagerly embrace the challenge and look forward to devising innovative and dynamic strategies to bolster our ecosystem," said Stevens.
Before her appointment, Stevens served as the Finance Coordinator at the NYSBDC since 2020. In that capacity, she managed contracts, sub-agreements, and associated budgets while reconciling expenses, cost share, and program income for all twenty-two New York Small Business Development Centers.
Jay Barclay, Operations Manager at The Research Foundation for SUNY, said: "Ms. Stevens proved to be a key member of our team. She is detail-oriented and has a strong acumen for financial transactions and analysis. Ms. Stevens understood the importance of compliance while meeting deadlines for the SUNY System Administration portfolio of externally funded programs. She has a proven ability to make strong connections with both internal and external stakeholders, and I feel she will be a great addition to the SBDC leadership team."
Sonya Smith, New York SBDC State Director, said: "Gerianne has shown a great ability to effectively manage multiple projects and consistently meet deadlines. Her appointment will further bolster the NYSBDC's dedication to supporting and assisting small businesses throughout New York State. I am eager to collaborate with her in her new role and build upon the excellent work we have already begun."
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