NEW: McKee Nominates Beacon Bank President Tsonos to Chair Rhode Island Life Science Hub

NEW: McKee Nominates Beacon Bank President Tsonos to Chair Rhode Island Life Science Hub

Rhode Island Governor Dan McKee announced on Monday that he is nominating Beacon Bank (formerly BankRI) President William Tsonos to serve as the chair of the Rhode Island Life Science Hub.

In May 2024, McKee nominated Tsonos to serve on the Rhode Island Commerce Corporation’s Board of Directors, where he currently serves.

Tsonos is a Bryant University graduate with a degree in business administration; his name will be submitted to the Rhode Island Senate for advice and consent.

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Former Rhode Island Foundation CEO Neil Steinberg was the first chairman of the agency; he stepped down in 2025 after two years in the role.

 

Latest for Organization

It marks the latest for the organization, which has seen a number of recent changes.

Former CEO Dr. Mark Turco resigned earlier in March, just one year into his three-year contract as the agency’s first President and CEO.

Lilia Holt, the vice president for the Rhode Island Life Science Hub, has temporarily stepped in as president of the quasi-public agency.

The Rhode Island Life Science Hub was established in 2023 to facilitate the growth of the state’s life sciences sector.

 

According to the state:

"This includes the development of medical advances and scientific breakthroughs with companies that specialize in the fields of medical devices, biomedical technology, medical therapeutic therapies, biogenetics, biomedical engineering, biopharmaceuticals, genomics, and life sciences.

To make this vision a reality, Gov. Dan McKee appointed a Board of Directors that includes leaders in the sector representing industry, higher education, and health care."