Last night, Ascend Long Island took high-level networking to the water! Our leadership team, Program Director, @wanda.almonte-williams and Procurment Consultant @Dean Bennett alongside a select group of our most active and engaged Ascend member businesses, set sail on the Spirit of New York for the prestigious NAMC (National Association of Minority Contractors) Tri-State 2026 Networking Dinner Cruise.

Departing from Chelsea Piers, this exclusive evening was a masterclass in our “Market” pillar. It gave our cohort members direct access to prime contractors, corporate sponsors, and industry titans—including NAMC Vice President Cheryl McKissack Daniel and President Nayan Parikh.

The energy on board was unmatched as we celebrated regional diversity leaders and connected our businesses directly with the decision-makers shaping the future of Tri-State construction and development. At Ascend, we don’t just talk about scaling, we put our businesses in the exact rooms (and onto the ships!) where major contracts are forged.

A massive thank you to the NAMC Tri-State Chapter for hosting an incredible, high-impact evening of alignment and opportunity!

📸 Swipe through to check out some highlights from an unforgettable night on the harbor!

In Partnership with Hofstra – Institute of Innovation and Entrepreneurship, The National Center for Suburban Studies at Hofstra University, The IdeaHUb, Frank G. Zarb School of Business, JP Morgan, BOC Capital and BOC Network.