FOCUS Forums are a series of engaging public discussions featuring expert panelists who discuss a range of topics that impact Central New York residents, including education, environment, local government, business, health, public service, and more. Each forum consists of insightful presentations followed by a moderated Q&A session that encourages community participation. We aim to create an inclusive space for residents to learn and contribute to the issues that matter most in our community.
When: Friday, May 23, 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Registration & Location: In-Person & Zoom. Registration is free and open to everyone.
Our May FOCUS Forum will be held in-person at the Central New York Philanthropy Center, with the option of virtual participation via Zoom.
Topic: The May FOCUS Forum will present information on the continuum of technical skills training, job placement, and educational/career advancement in place programs locally that promote equity in the achievement of job and career goals by students and adults in our expanding job market. The Forum will highlight programs and pathways for high school students in the Syracuse City School District designed to support their success in pursuing workforce and college opportunities upon graduation. It will also feature skills development, job training, and career growth programs for adults offered through a multi-sector collaboration which also supports participants with related needs such as childcare, housing, and financing.
Panelists & Sponsor:
Emilija Postolovsak, Director of Workforce Innovation, CenterState CEO
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Emilija is the Director of Workforce Innovation at CenterState CEO, focusing on collaborative strategies to meet the workforce needs of the growing and in-demand manufacturing sector. In this role, she oversees the Bridge to Manufacturing Careers program, a pathway for women, people of color, un/underemployed residents to gain increased access to careers at Micron and other advanced manufacturing employers through career awareness, barrier mitigation and skill development, preparing individuals for education that leads to family-sustaining employment. Previously, she held various roles addressing social determinants of health in vulnerable populations, including as a Senior Consultant at MS Hall + Associates, Program Director of the Transforming Communities Initiative, and Program Associate at the Health Foundation for Western & Central New York. Emilija also serves as a board and executive committee member of the Syracuse-Onondaga Food Systems Alliance, the CNY Lyme & Tick-Borne Disease Alliance, and Syracuse Northeast Community Center. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in public health from Syracuse University, and a Master’s degree in public health through a cooperative program between SUNY Upstate Medical University and the Maxwell School at Syracuse University.
Quindell Williams, Workforce & Talent Development Coach, Department of Career and Technical Education (CTE), Syracuse City School District
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Quindell assumed the position of CTE Workforce & Talent and Development Coach Workforce in July 2024 and is responsible for working with students seeking employment, post-secondary certification/diploma options, and other steps that support their career goals. Previously, Quindell served as a High School Educator for six years at Public Service Leadership Academy at Fowler High School where he taught Remote Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS/Drone) technology. Quindell is also a FAA Part 107 certified sUAS Drone pilot and Emmy Award winning Photojournalist. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Broadcasting and Mass Communications from SUNY Oswego, and an Associate of Applied Science degree in Electronic Media Communications from OCC.
FOCUS extends our heartfelt gratitude to EDR for their generous sponsorship of the May 2025 FOCUS Forum. EDR’s support enables us to continue providing free access to this valuable educational resource.
| Founded in 1979, EDR is a certified Woman Owned Business (WBE) dedicated to sustainable, multidisciplinary solutions arrived at through collaboration with our clients and allies. EDR’s mission is dedicated to creating and sustaining a better environment – for our clients, for our employees, and for our communities. Our diverse Practice Areas include Landscape Architecture, Engineering, Environmental, Cultural Resources, Community Planning, Visualization, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) supported by our Operations team that includes Finance, Human Resources, and Marketing/Communications. |
Join us in making a difference by becoming a sponsor and helping sustain this impactful program. Sponsorship opportunities are available for individuals, organizations, and businesses who are eager to make a positive impact.