CenterState CEO Celebrates 353 Businesses at Economic Champions Event

353 Companies Recognized for Creating Jobs; Growth and Expansion; Capital Investments; New Business Openings and More

Community Visionary Award Presented to Onondaga Community College

SYRACUSE, NY – CenterState CEO’s annual Economic Champions Celebration, presented by FustCharles and AmeriCU Credit Union, recognized the collective contributions of 353 companies and organizations to the growth and vibrancy of the Central New York economy. Nearly 600 community members helped to celebrate during the event at the Oncenter Oct. 29, 2025.

Together, these nominees were recognized for their aggregate hiring of more than 4,800 employees, over 1.3 million square-feet of expansions, and over $1.4 billion in capital investments. 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.

View Full List of 2025 Economic Champions

Companies are nominated as Economic Champions by CenterState CEO and the Greater Oswego-Fulton Chamber of Commerce, the Downtown Committee of Syracuse, 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,” CenterState CEO President Rob Simpson said. “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.“

The celebration event also featured remarks from Syracuse University Women’s Basketball Head Coach Felisha Legette-Jack. A Syracuse native, Legette-Jack shared how her growth as a coach has been alongside that of the region she calls home.

“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.”

The Economic Champions Event also marks the annual recognition of CenterState CEO’s Community Visionary Award, sponsored by Wegmans Food Markets. This year's honoree is Onondaga Community College (OCC) for its commitment to economic opportunity and community prosperity.

“Onondaga Community College is dedicated to creating stronger outcomes for its students, our community and the entire region,” said Evelyn Ingram, Wegmans director of Community Engagement. “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. 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.

Notably, 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, opened in October 2025, create a vital tool to prepare students for jobs at Micron and other companies. 

"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," said Dr. Warren Hilton, president, Onondaga Community College. “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."

Watch the 2025 Community Visionary Award video and more highlight videos of this year’s Economic Champions on CenterState CEO’s YouTube Channel.

CenterState CEO thanks the 2025 Economic Champions sponsors!