John (Jack) P. Kobistek – Executive Director

Mr. Kobistek is the founder and Executive Director of Policy Innovations Institute. He was born and raised in the City of Pittsburgh. As a lifelong resident of this region, Mr. Kobistek believes our region’s strength stems from its many, diverse communities/neighborhoods. He believes there is a simple solution to enhancing our region: better housing plus better education equals better communities. In order to positively affect the day-to-day lives of people, Jack understands it is essential to discover new ways to enhance and support our current environment. He feels the best solutions come from innovative public-private partnerships. Through these partnerships, “everyone has a vested interest in the solutions, thus providing a greater opportunity for success.”

Jack has a degree in Finance with Masters Degrees in Public Management from Carnegie Mellon University’s Heinz School and Instructional Leadership from Robert Morris University. His work experience includes many years as a consultant in the areas of management, organizational effectiveness, labor relations, public policy, nonprofit programming, and diversity. Some of the companies he has worked with include: US Airways; USPS; PriceWaterhouseCoopers, LLC; Cigna Co’s; and the United Way.

Donald G. Bennett, II - President Board of Directors

Mr. Bennett has been President of the Policy Innovations Institute’s Board of Directors since its inception. Mr. Bennett is a Financial Consultant for Janney Montgomery Scott, LLC. He is a life long resident of the City of Pittsburgh and has been very active in urban renewal and graffiti prevention.

Before becoming a Financial Consultant, Don joined the firm’s Operations Department in 2000. Prior to this, Don worked at RR Donnelley where he assisted in the development of many financial quarterly reports and prospectuses. He received his Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from Robert Morris University and has earned his NASD/NYSE Series 7 and 66 licenses and Life/Accident & Health certifications.

Don is also president of the Steel City Networking Group and an active member of Toastmaster International and Millvale Sportsman’s Club. In his spare time, Don enjoys the outdoors and weightlifting and is committed to preserving the nation’s resources for future generations.

Rocco Mercurio, Jr. - Director

Rocco Mercurio, Jr. has been a Director on the Policy Innovations Institute Board for the last two years. Currently, Mr. Mercurio is a Research Analyst with the University of Pittsburgh, Graduate School of Health, where he is involved in a number of studies that have a profound effect on our region and the world. He has BS in Social Science from West Virginia University and a Masters of Business Administration from the University of Pittsburgh’s, Katz School of Business.

Rocco along with his wife and children have been life long residents of the City of Pittsburgh. He is very active in community development and youth programs throughout the city. Rocco enjoys the outdoors, golf, and spending time with his children. He is passionate about enhancing the quality of life in his favorite city - Pittsburgh.

Currently the third Director’s position on the Policy Innovations’ Board is vacant due to a recent resignation.