WNY News Now

(WNY News Now) – Albany, NY – Governor Kathy Hochul has unveiled a roster of skilled individuals to bolster her administration’s efforts in making New York more affordable, livable, and safer. 

“As we work to make New York more affordable, more livable and safer, it’s critical to have a team of public servants who can deliver results,” Governor Hochul said. “These qualified, talented individuals will help us continue the fight for New York’s future, and will be important parts of our efforts to reach communities in every corner of the Empire State.”

Governor Kathy Hochul, in her pursuit to fortify New York’s future, has appointed a cadre of accomplished professionals to crucial roles within her administration. These selections, each with a unique background and expertise, are poised to contribute significantly to the state’s ongoing initiatives.

• Ivan Acosta – Deputy Chief of Staff: Ivan Acosta, with a distinguished tenure in the New York City Mayor’s Office of Management and Budget, assumes the role of Deputy Chief of Staff. His six-year stint as Associate Director and prior positions in various city offices demonstrate a wealth of experience in budget management, legislation, and constituent services.
• Robert Calarco – Assistant Secretary for Long Island Intergovernmental Affairs: Robert Calarco, former Assistant Regional Director for the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, brings his experience as a five-term Suffolk County Legislator to the role of Assistant Secretary for Long Island Intergovernmental Affairs. His master’s degree in public policy enhances his capacity to address regional challenges.
• Shanna Cassidy – Assistant Secretary to the Governor: Shanna Cassidy, with over a decade of legislative experience, assumes the role of Assistant Secretary to the Governor. Her previous roles as Legislative Director and Committee Director underscore her ability to navigate the complexities of state governance.
• Colleen Deacon – Deputy Secretary for Upstate Intergovernmental Affairs: Colleen Deacon, having served as the Senior Director of Upstate Intergovernmental Affairs, brings extensive knowledge to her role as Deputy Secretary. With a background in regional and municipal affairs, she is poised to address the unique challenges facing upstate New York.
• Daniel Dornbaum – Assistant Secretary to the Governor: Daniel Dornbaum, previously Director of Operations for the New York State Democratic Committee, steps into the role of Assistant Secretary to the Governor. His experience in operational roles within the Democratic Committee and the Executive Chamber aligns with the demands of his new position.
• Stevens Martinez – Deputy Director for Long Island Intergovernmental Affairs: Stevens Martinez, with a background in Government Affairs and External Affairs, has been appointed Deputy Director for Long Island Intergovernmental Affairs. His experience in both public and private sectors positions him well for this key role.
• Jacqueline Paredes – Assistant Secretary for Legislative Affairs: Jacqueline Paredes, drawing on over 16 years of service with the New York State United Teachers, assumes the role of Assistant Secretary for Legislative Affairs. Her extensive experience in legislative representation and political consulting equips her for the complexities of legislative engagement.
• Shirley Paul – Assistant Counsel for Judiciary: Shirley Paul, with a background in civil and criminal law, is appointed Assistant Counsel for Judiciary. Her diverse legal experience, including roles in the Executive Chamber and New York City Law Department, enhances her capacity to address legal matters within the administration.
• Edgar Santana – Executive Deputy Secretary to the Governor: Edgar Santana, previously Deputy Secretary to the Governor, now holds the position of Executive Deputy Secretary. With a broad career encompassing roles in political and governmental affairs, his leadership is poised to make a significant impact on the administration.
• Jessica Scaperotti – Assistant Secretary for Cabinet Affairs: Jessica Scaperotti, transitioning from real estate development, assumes the role of Assistant Secretary for Cabinet Affairs. Her decade-long experience managing press offices for various government departments positions her well for this communications-focused role.
• Angel Vasquez – Deputy Secretary for Downstate Intergovernmental Affairs: Angel Vasquez, with a diverse background including roles as Assistant Secretary for Intergovernmental Affairs and Chief of Staff to a state senator, takes on the role of Deputy Secretary for Downstate Intergovernmental Affairs. His broad experience in policy and intergovernmental relations is crucial for this position.

Governor Hochul expressed confidence in her appointees, stating that their collective expertise would be instrumental in addressing the multifaceted challenges facing New York.