Meet the Staff

Norris joined the Chamber in March of 2023. He brings decades of experience as a community connector with expertise in convening a diverse set of stakeholders to advance a common goal. He worked at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute for 29 years. For 23 of those years at RPI, he managed The Houston Field House and oversaw event staffing, box office operations, public safety, and emergency services associated with events. He has a passion for our business community and region. Norris has been involved with the Chamber for many years and was a member of the inaugural class of the Leadership Institute in 2006. His high level of energy positions this organization well for growing our membership and expanding programming.

Norris received his bachelor’s from Susquehanna University and his master’s from Shippensburg University. Norris is extremely involved in the community, he is a member of the Capital Region YMCA Board of Directors, a founding member of the Frear Park Conservancy, an active parishioner at St. John’s Episcopal Church, and a past board member of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. He and his wife, Marguerite Pearson, who is the senior director of marketing and communications at the Mohawk-Hudson Humane Society, have lived in the Capital Region since 1990 and have four cats whom they refer to as the Troy Boys. Norris is an active runner and has completed 41 marathons.

Lucas joined the Chamber in June of 2023. He brings a wealth of knowledge and experience from running his event promotions and celebrity/athlete services business. He conceptualizes, executes, and promotes programming and events that serve all Chamber members. In addition to this, he developed the Chamber’s 2025 budget, worked as part of the leadership team to finalize the strategic plan for the next 3 years, is responsible for overseeing marketing and communications efforts, serving as the primary fundraiser, and working with staff to improve efficiencies and implement cost-saving measures.

Lucas graduated from Scotia Glenville High School in 2017 and is pursuing a degree in business administration. Outside of his role at the Chamber, Lucas likes to spend time with his family, friends and dog Benji. He is active and enjoys outdoor activities, attending concerts, volunteering with various non-profits, and eating throughout the Capital Region.

Cynthia joined the Chamber in February of 2025. She comes to us with ample education and experience. She has worked for a variety of communications agencies and most recently handled communications for a NYS Senator. Cynthia is very enthusiastic about her work with the Chamber. She handles the organization’s marketing and communications needs across the board and is willing to help wherever else she is needed, such as events, promotions, etc.

Cynthia earned her bachelor’s in communications from Le Moyne College in 2022 and her master’s in public relations from Syracuse University’s S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications in 2023. When Cynthia is not working, she can be found hanging out with her friends, family or dog Snoopy. She also loves music and is always interested in going to a concert.

Emily joined the Chamber in June of 2025. She started with us after graduating from the Hudson Valley Community College Honor’s College with an associate’s degree in digital media. Emily’s creativity and innovation are what drive her positive attitude everyday at the Chamber. She is responsible for greeting our members, answering the phone, keeping up to date with collections, and providing support at events and any other tasks as necessary.

Emily is currently a full-time student pursuing a bachelor’s degree in communications on a digital marketing track at Siena University. When Emily is not at work or in class, she enjoys photography, cuddling with her kittens, hanging out with family and going to late night Rock N Bowl.