Nyack, NY – On September 26, Ken Zebrowski, newly appointed president of the Rockland Business Association (RBA), addressed attendees at a luncheon held at the Nyack Seaport. The event was attended by a capacity crowd, including County Executive Ed Day, Economic Development and Tourism Director Jenna Nazario, Clarkstown Supervisor George Hoehmann, as well as numerous companies and stakeholders across the Hudson Valley.
During his speech, Zebrowski outlined the future vision for the RBA under his leadership, dubbed “RBA 2.0,” emphasizing a forward-thinking, data-driven approach while maintaining respect for the organization’s long-standing traditions. As a matter of fact, part of the plan is to reboot a number of the programs that former President (and current CEO) Al Samuels and team had implemented in years past prior to COVID – such as the Pinnacle Awards.
RBA 2.0: A New Era of Advocacy and Data-Driven Strategies
Zebrowski began by acknowledging the legacy of the RBA, which has served the Rockland business community since the 1960s. However, he stressed the need for reinvention and adaptation in the post-pandemic world. “Every organization, from Fortune 500 companies to local nonprofits, must continually reinvent themselves,” he noted, reflecting on the lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic.
The heart of Zebrowski’s RBA 2.0 vision lies in sharpening advocacy efforts and embracing a data-driven approach. He highlighted the importance of nonpartisan, professional advocacy tailored to meet the specific needs of RBA members. “We deserve a data-driven and professional approach to politics and government,” Zebrowski remarked, positioning the RBA as a leader in providing its members with the information and resources needed to navigate an increasingly partisan political environment.
Building Strategic Relationships
A key element of RBA 2.0 is the strengthening of relationships with local, state, and federal officials to advocate effectively for the business community. Zebrowski plans to develop public policy agendas and update them quarterly, ensuring that the RBA’s efforts are results-oriented and focused on measurable outcomes.
He also emphasized the importance of direct engagement with elected officials, with plans to arrange trips to Washington, D.C., Albany, and local offices. “We’re going to be connecting members to information and providing avenues for mobilization,” Zebrowski said, underscoring his commitment to advocacy that yields tangible benefits for RBA members.
New Programming and Events
In addition to advocacy, Zebrowski announced a range of new programs and events aimed at fostering collaboration within the Rockland business community. These initiatives include industry-specific workshops, business-to-business networking events, and interactive sessions with government agencies and business leaders.
Zebrowski also revealed plans for the return of several RBA hallmark events, such as the Pinnacle Awards in May 2025 and the popular fall/winter keynote speaker series. “We want to get back to celebrating our community,” Zebrowski stated, adding that these events will serve as opportunities for members to showcase their achievements and build stronger connections.
Fostering Collaboration and Growth
The RBA 2.0 vision places significant emphasis on collaboration. Zebrowski called on members to work together, not only to advocate for their individual businesses but also to support the broader Rockland community. He introduced plans for a mentorship and sponsorship program that will connect larger businesses with smaller enterprises and nonprofit organizations, creating an “ecosystem of collaboration” in the county.
“Expect everyone in this room to hear directly from me in the coming months. I want to learn about each of your businesses and organizations, and what you think the RBA can do to help each of you.”
Zebrowski concluded by reaffirming his commitment to leading the RBA into a new chapter, stating, “At the end of the day, we should be One Rockland, and we should be the leaders in this room advocating and celebrating our County.”