NEW YORK, NY - Following the announcement from New York State Governor Kathy Hochul that Hope Knight has been nominated to be Commissioner of the Department of Economic Development and President and CEO of Empire State Development (ESD), RPA board members and leadership made the following statements:

“As we emerge from the worst of the pandemic, there is no one better than Hope Knight to help lead our state’s economic recovery so that we are more prosperous, equitable, and sustainable than before. It has been an absolute privilege working with her on the RPA Board.”
-- Scott Rechler
Chairman, Board of Directors, Regional Plan Association

“It has been a privilege and honor to have Hope as a partner on the RPA board, especially during such a critical time for the tri-state region. Hope’s leadership, expertise, and insight has been and will continue to be an inspiration to many – including myself. Governor Hochul is making a prudent decision by choosing Hope Knight to lead Empire State Development, and I am confident this entire state will benefit from the depth of her experience and resolve.”
-- Matt Kissner
Vice Chair, Board of Directors, Regional Plan Association

“RPA is thrilled to learn Hope Knight will lead Empire State Development as the State of New York. With more than two decades of service in the private, public, and non-for-profit sectors Hope brings a vast breadth of experience that has spurred economic transformation, revitalized communities and improved quality of life for many. We are indebted to Hope for her service as an executive member of the RPA Board and look forward to our continued partnership with her as we all work together for a better future for our entire region.”
-- Tom Wright
President and CEO, Regional Plan Association