On June 30th, Mike Tucker will step down after more than eight years as CEG’s president and CEO. Mike guided CEG through a period of immense change and growth, ushering in a new era of recognized success in technology-led development and manufacturing-led revitalization for the Capital Region. During his tenure, CEG has taken a key leadership role in integrating workforce and education, driven entrepreneurship and economic development efforts and continues to address the region’s future infrastructure needs. Mike has been a positive force in the shift toward regionalism and cross-sector collaboration, bringing key projects to completion through inclusive and productive partnerships, and the commitment and investment of CEG members. While the organization undergoes a nationwide search over the next year, Michael J. Hickey, who currently serves as CEG’s Board Chair, has been appointed interim president and CEO. He will take a leave of absence from Siena College, where he is executive in residence and directs the Stack Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship. Dr. Laura Schweitzer, president of Union Graduate College and CEG’s current Vice Chair was elected by the Board to serve as Chair through the end of the year. “Mike is leaving his position knowing that he has made a real impact in positioning our region for future growth,” Hickey said. “On behalf of CEG and our members, I would like to express our thanks and gratitude for all of his efforts these past eight years. He remains a tremendous champion of Tech Valley and a dedicated ally to CEG and its membership.” Mike, who has legal, financial, energy and real estate experience, is planning to return to the private sector. Before joining CEG, Tucker, an attorney and real estate broker, served as president and CEO of the Harriman Research and Technology Development Corp. and was a principal for more than 25 years at Mercer Companies, Inc., an Albany-based energy and real estate development and management firm. Mike will be recognized for his leadership, energy and commitment to CEG and our region at CEG's 2015 Annual Meeting slated for October 25, 2015 at EMPAC in Troy, NY.