Mercy University Hosts Business Leaders for Conversation on NYC's Economic Future

Mercy University welcomed students, faculty, staff, and business and community leaders to its Manhattan Campus on March 4 for a vital conversation on making New York City a better place to do business.

Hosted in partnership with 1010 WINS and Dime Community Bank, the event featured a roundtable discussion moderated by 1010 WINS' Rob Walsh and Juliet Papa. Panelists included Andrew Rigie, executive director of the New York City Hospitality Alliance; Elena Boyd, managing director at Accenture; Haris Khan, chief of staff of NYC Department of Small Business Services; and Gregg Bishop, executive director of the Joe and Clara Tsai Foundation's Social Justice Fund.

The dynamic discussion explored challenges facing entrepreneurs and small businesses in New York City, with a focus on streamlining processes and creating more equitable pathways to business ownership.

"Streamlining the process of doing business in New York City isn't just about efficiency, it's about equity," said Mercy University President Susan L. Parish, PhD, MSW. "It's about ensuring that the next generation of entrepreneurs, innovators, and leaders, including many who will walk across our stage at commencement, have a fair shot at building something meaningful here."

President Parish emphasized the importance of cross-sector collaboration in addressing these challenges. "At Mercy University, we believe in the power of partnership. We believe that when higher education, government, and the business community work together, we can create an environment where everyone—regardless of their zip code or background—has the chance to succeed."