Co-Hosts Day of Career Exploration with Mercy University and Sister to Sister International, Inc.
The Youth Bureau, in collaboration with Mercy University and Sister to Sister International, Inc. (STSI), hosted over 200 students for a full-day program dedicated to careers in medicine, technology and finance. The March 22 conference was geared to eighth to twelfth graders from across the County interested in new opportunities created by the intersection of these three fields, and increased in both scope and attendance over the 2023 MedTech conference.
Innovation strategist Neeti Sanyal kicked off the conference with a keynote address reflecting her experience in the MedTech & Finance theme, and provided valuable perspectives on innovation, creativity and career opportunities in these fields. Students then went on to connect with experts from Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, St. John’s Riverside Hospital and other industry leaders at morning and afternoon workshop sessions. Workshops focused on timely topics such as robotic surgery, the role of AI in healthcare management and how to best manage your finances to provide for your career.
In addressing the students, Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins referenced his valuable background in technology and said: “Opportunities like the MedTech & Finance Conference are a great example of how County government can partner with private institutions to broaden the possibilities for Westchester’s young people. The fact that so many of you are here today means to me that you are being proactive about your futures and already have a sense of what you are interested in. Being proactive and knowing what direction you might go in means you are already on a path to success.”
Westchester County Youth Bureau Executive Director Ernest McFadden said: “Young people of today face complex challenges. We believe that youth-driven innovation in medicine, technology and finance will be the catalyst for tomorrow’s solutions. The 2025 MedTech & Finance conference highlights the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration to solve the world’s most pressing problems.”
Mercy University STEP/CSTEP Opportunity Programs Director Julie A. Arias said: "We are thrilled to provide students with the opportunity to attend the MedTech and Finance Conference. This experience will not only enhance their knowledge and creativity but also foster greater self-awareness. The insights gained today will empower them to apply these learnings both in their personal lives and in their contributions to society."
Mercy University School of Business Dean Victor Petenkemani said: “We were excited to collaborate with Westchester County, Sister to Sister, International and our community partners to organize the 2025 MedTech & Finance conference. We are committed to deepening these types of partnerships. By engaging all stakeholders and pooling resources, we are better equipped to properly train a high quality workforce to support sustainable economic growth in Westchester County.”
STSI Founder Dr. Cheryl Brannan said: “Sister to Sister was pleased to serve on the leadership team for this great day at Mercy University. We were able to expose students to career opportunities and role models that will help them build confidence and a resilient future. The array of diverse professionals provided students with an impactful and interactive experience. STSI middle and high school students gave the kick-off conference rave reviews!”
Ossining High School Senior Miles Cauthen said: “My biggest takeaway from this event is that there are jobs for anybody in any field. As someone who wants to study computer science, learning that I can use my studies to advance the technology in medical practice is really important to me.”