More than 350 companies celebrated as Economic Champions by CenterState CEO

SYRACUSE, N.Y. — The efforts of 353 businesses and nonprofit organizations were recognized on Oct. 29 during CenterState CEO’s annual Economic Champions Celebration at the Nicholas J. Pirro Convention Center at Oncenter in downtown Syracuse. Those involved were honored for their contributions to the “growth and vibrancy” of the Central New York economy. Nearly 600 community members attended the event. Together, the honored organizations were recognized for their aggregate hiring of more than 4,800 employees, over 1.3 million square-feet of expansions, and more than $1.4 billion in capital investments. CenterState CEO went on to say that “in a sign of positive economic momentum,” 94 businesses were recognized for opening new storefronts, offices, and facilities; 88 were highlighted for celebrating a milestone anniversary; 156 were recognized for receiving significant awards and achievements and 44 organizations and firms were noted for advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in their workplaces and community. Companies are nominated as Economic Champions by CenterState CEO, the Greater Oswego-Fulton Chamber of Commerce, the Downtown Committee of Syracuse, Inc., peers, employees and staff, as well as self-nominations. “During this year’s Economic Champions event we celebrate and reflect on the magic that occurs when preparation meets opportunity. All the successes we recognized today didn’t happen overnight. It is the product of decades of determination and collaboration. Together, we put in the work so that when opportunity came knocking, this region would be ready,” Robert Simpson, president and CEO of CenterState CEO, said in the announcement. “This event brings together leaders from every sector — builders, creators, visionaries — people who believe in the promise of this place. Their dedication has not only powered a true economic transformation in this region, they are also looking ahead and steadfastly preparing to turn today’s aspirations into future achievement. That is what champions do, and that is why this event exists–to celebrate those driving impact today and for tomorrow.” Felisha Legette-Jack, head coach of the Syracuse University women’s basketball team, served as the event’s keynote speaker. “I am blessed to return to my roots in Central New York and witness first-hand the fresh path of growth and possibilities for the future,” said Legette-Jack. “As we strive for success together, our ability to perform will always be tied to our ability to take care of ourselves and each other, both physically and mentally. If we are mentally strong, we can be physically ready to take on any challenge and overcome them for a better future. It is a gift to be home and to be a part of this wonderful community and I look forward to celebrating all of our achievements along the way.”

Community Visionary Award

The Economic Champions event also includes the annual recognition of CenterState CEO’s Community Visionary Award, sponsored by Wegmans Food Markets. This year’s honoree was Onondaga Community College (OCC) for its commitment to economic opportunity and community prosperity, CenterState CEO said. “Onondaga Community College is dedicated to creating stronger outcomes for its students, our community and the entire region,” Evelyn Ingram, Wegmans director of community engagement, said in the CenterState CEO announcement. “OCC understands the critical importance of collaboration, working with employers and partners to design programs that factor in the totality of a student’s experience, including potential barriers to their success. The college actively embraces its role as a forward-looking, instrumental leader, and Wegmans is proud to honor it with this year’s CenterState CEO Community Visionary Award.” OCC has “taken a lead” in workforce innovation, expanding programs, building community connections, and creating new pathways to careers for youth and adults alike, CenterState CEO said. Its degree and certificate programs in health care, manufacturing, and other tech-related fields provide students with direct-to-work and transfer opportunities. And as part of SUNY Reconnect, OCC plays a “pivotal role” in helping more individuals boost their earning power with a free associate degree in a high-demand field, like advanced manufacturing, health professions and cybersecurity. CenterState CEO went on to say that OCC has “shown statewide leadership” on semiconductor training and education, “committed to building pathways” to degree programs and in-demand careers for underrepresented individuals. Additionally, investments like the new Micron Cleanroom Simulation Lab on the OCC campus, which opened in October, “create a vital tool” to prepare students for jobs at Micron Technology, Inc. (Nasdaq: MU) and other companies. Micron will build a semiconductor-manufacturing campus in the town of Clay. “As regional employers seek skilled talent for high-demand jobs and residents look for access to those growing opportunities, OCC is proud to prepare students for careers that are both essential and rewarding,” Warren Hilton, president of OCC, said. “Whether through our new Micron Cleanroom Simulation Lab, expanded training spaces and programs in health care and other industries, and innovative pathways for adult learners through SUNY Reconnect, we remain ‘lazer focused’ on expanding access to high-quality, affordable education while strengthening the region’s economic growth. This award is a testament to our faculty and staff, and to the community whose support makes our mission possible.”