New Appointments at New Jersey Innovation Institute
New Jersey Innovation Institute (NJII), an extension of the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT), proudly announces the recent appointments of Chrissy Buteas and Elisa Charters to its Board of Directors. This strategic move signifies NJII’s commitment to driving innovation and collaboration in the state.
Meet Chrissy Buteas
Chrissy Buteas serves as the President and CEO of the HealthCare Institute, which advocates for biopharmaceutical and medical technology industries. Her experience includes vital roles as VP of Government Affairs at Optimum and Chief Government Affairs Officer at the New Jersey Business & Industry Association. Her broad expertise in leadership positions is set to enhance NJII's operational objectives.
Background and Contributions
Buteas brings a wealth of experience from her tenure in various organizations, focusing on government affairs and healthcare innovation. As a graduate of Rutgers University-Newark, she holds a Master of Public Administration and a Bachelor of Arts from Rowan University. Her commitment to collaboration resonates with her belief in strengthening research ecosystems and promoting technology advancement.
Introducing Elisa Charters
Elisa Charters is a highly regarded executive strategist with over three decades in public-sector finance and negotiations within major economic development projects. Notably, she has played a pivotal role in assessing revenue programs as Assistant Comptroller while aiding in post-9/11 redevelopment initiatives.
Innovation Through Entrepreneurship
Transitioning into entrepreneurship, Charters established EAC Business International LLC and most recently launched Juegos AI Lab, emphasizing her focus on technology and social impact. Her passion for underserved communities is evident in her co-founding of Latina Surge National nonprofit, showcasing her drive for education and empowerment.
Vision for the Future of NJII
Charters, an alumna of NJIT with dual degrees in Environmental Science and a graduate degree in International Finance from Columbia University, expresses enthusiasm for her new role. She remarks on the rapid global advancements in AI, emphasizing that it's an opportune moment for New Jersey to lead in this domain. With strong support from NJIT as a premier R1 research institution, Charters believes NJII can significantly impact key innovation sectors.
Leadership Endorsement
Michael Johnson, Ph.D., President of NJII, conveys excitement about the new board members, indicating that their extensive backgrounds will be integral to NJII's mission. With their insights, NJII aims to enhance technology-driven growth and collaboration across New Jersey's pivotal sectors.
Recent Developments at NJII
Under Dr. Johnson’s guidance, NJII has experienced transformative changes, including the unveiling of the NJII Venture Studio, the state's latest Strategic Innovation Center. This center focuses on high-tech innovations, further solidifying NJII’s role in workforce development through comprehensive training programs in advanced fields such as AI and biotechnology.
About New Jersey Innovation Institute
The New Jersey Innovation Institute operates as a non-profit organization wholly owned by NJIT. Since its establishment in 2014, NJII has effectively integrated the resources of a major research university with industry and governmental partnerships, fostering technology acceleration and innovation across a range of sectors. With significantly over $330 million generated in revenue across AI/ML, Defense, Entrepreneurship, and Healthcare divisions, NJII continues to make substantial economic contributions.
About New Jersey Institute of Technology
NJIT leads in cultivating technological expertise in the state and is recognized as a foremost polytechnic institution. It holds the prestigious R1 classification, supporting innovation and academic excellence reflected in high alumni success rates. NJIT is committed to providing high-value educational opportunities contributing to economic mobility and social advancement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the newly appointed board members of NJII?
The new board members are Chrissy Buteas and Elisa Charters, bringing extensive experience in healthcare and economic development.
What is Chrissy Buteas's professional background?
Buteas is the President & CEO of the HealthCare Institute of New Jersey and has held major leadership roles in several organizations.
What initiatives is NJII focusing on?
NJII is focusing on advancing technology, fostering collaboration, and strengthening workforce development through innovative training programs.
What is Elisa Charters known for?
Charters is recognized for her strategic leadership in public-sector finance and her commitment to educational initiatives for underserved communities.
How is NJII contributing to New Jersey's economy?
NJII drives economic growth by accelerating technology transfer, fostering innovation, and developing a skilled workforce in various sectors.
