FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
PRESIDENT & CEO SHELTON J. HAYNES APPOINTS MARY C. CUNNEEN AS CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER OF ROOSEVELT ISLAND OPERATING CORPORATION
Roosevelt Island, NY – September 30, 2022 – Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (RIOC) President & CEO Shelton J. Haynes today announced the appointment of Mary C. Cunneen as Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation. Cunneen will serve as Acting COO pending RIOC Board confirmation.
"Having worked with Mary for the past five years, I have seen first-hand her ability to work effectively with a results-driven approach," said RIOC President & CEO Shelton J. Haynes. "Mary's keen eye for operational efficiency is exactly what RIOC needs to ensure our continued success. Her unparalleled understanding of the Island and its people proves she is the perfect person for the job. Anytime there is an opportunity to promote within the organization, it demonstrates growth and an ongoing commitment to our team. Together we will continue to advance the progress made for all who live, work, and seek to uncover the beauty of Roosevelt Island."
Cunneen possesses over 14 years of operational and personnel development experience in several industries and over a decade of management experience. Before joining RIOC in 2017, Cunneen served at the University of Massachusetts (UMASS) as the Associate Director of Athletic Facilities & Operations. While at UMASS, she was responsible for leading, developing, and managing the facility's master planning initiatives. She worked strategically with other members of the University to improve the athletic facility's footprint, processes, and policies. Cunneen also worked at Fordham University as the Associate Director of Athletics for Facilities & Events. While at Fordham University, she oversaw numerous departments while serving as the Leadership Director for the Athletic Department. Cunneen was awarded the Facility Manager of the Year Award through the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics in 2017.
"Mary is a wonderful asset to the corporation as she always approaches each assignment with diligence and great care," said Vice President & General Counsel Gretchen Robinson. "Her institutional knowledge of the inner workings of RIOC; and having a solid understanding of the organization's departments makes her the perfect person to be elevated to this demanding position. We look forward to working with her in this new role, and I wish her much success."
"I am honored and humbled for this opportunity provided by Mr. Haynes," said Acting Chief Operating Officer Mary Cunneen. I am excited to continue to deliver on RIOC's commitment to serving the Island in this capacity. It's an exciting thought to continue the sustained collaboration with our talented team, enhancing our strategic plan, remaining solution-oriented, and growing together as a corporation."
When Cunneen first started her tenure at RIOC, she began as the Director of Parks and Recreation in May 2017. Subsequently, she was promoted to Director of Organizational Efficiency and Special Projects in March 2020. Then in June 2021, Cunneen was elevated to serve as the Corporation's Internal Control Officer ("ICO"). In her most recent role as the ICO, Cunneen's responsibilities included the creation, implementation, maintenance, and monitoring of RIOC's comprehensive program of internal control.
Cunneen holds a Bachelor's and Master of Business Administration degrees from St. John's University. She is also a Certified Project Management Professional and holds a certificate in change management.
About Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (RIOC): The Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (RIOC) was created in 1984 by the State of New York as a public benefit corporation with a mission to plan, design, develop, operate, and maintain Roosevelt Island. With a focus on innovative and environmentally friendly solutions, RIOC is committed to providing services that enhance the island's residential community. RIOC manages the two-mile-long island's roads, parks, buildings, a sports facility, and public transportation, including the iconic aerial tramway. Additionally, RIOC operates a Public Safety Department that helps maintain a safe and secure environment for residents, employees, business owners, and visitors.