Published Spring 2026 | The Bridge – Foundation News
Matthew A. Mroz, an accomplished leader in technology commercialization and innovation strategy, has joined the SUNY Poly Foundation Board, bringing nearly two decades of experience advancing research, entrepreneurship, and industry partnerships across New York State and beyond.
Mroz currently serves as Executive Vice President of the Griffiss Institute, where he leads the launch and operations of the organization’s West Coast defense and aerospace innovation hub and oversees a sponsored programs portfolio $30 million portfolio of federal, state, and private partnerships.
There he is spearheading the launch of a new social enterprise model for regional technology commercialization, leading the organization’s activities to support a defense and aerospace innovation hub in southern California, and leading the effective administration of a portfolio of federal, state, and private programs designed to support the advancement our nation’s economic competitiveness and secure our nation’s critical infrastructure.
Prior to this role, he spent more than 15 years with The State University of New York (SUNY) Research Foundation, ultimately serving as Vice President for Industry and External Affairs, where he led systemwide innovation, technology transfer, and corporate engagement efforts across 30 campuses.
Over the course of his career, Mroz has helped manage hundreds of inventions annually, a portfolio of nearly 1,000 licenses, and the formation of more than 160 university startups. His work has focused on strengthening the bridge between academic research and real-world impact, an experience that aligns closely with SUNY Poly’s mission.
“I am honored to join the SUNY Poly Foundation Board at such an exciting time for the institution,” Mroz said. “SUNY Poly has built a powerful model that connects research, industry, and student opportunity. I look forward to working with fellow board members and campus leadership to expand partnerships, fuel innovation, and create transformative opportunities for students and faculty.”
Andrea LaGatta, SUNY Poly Vice President of Institutional Advancement, welcomed Mroz to the board. “Matt’s deep expertise in technology transfer, venture development, and strategic partnerships will be an extraordinary asset to the Foundation,” LaGatta said. “His career reflects a strong commitment to advancing SUNY’s research enterprise and strengthening connections with industry. We are thrilled to have his leadership and insight supporting SUNY Poly’s continued growth and impact.”
