CenterState CEO Shares Statement on Syracuse University Chancellor's Plans to Depart

Posted On
August 27, 2025

Image
SU Chancellor Departure Graphic

CenterState CEO acting president and CEO Ben Sio issued the following statement on the news that Syracuse University Chancellor Kent Syverud plans to step down from his role at the university in June 2026, the end of the academic year: 

"Our region’s ability to tackle big challenges and seize even greater opportunities stems directly from the collaboration of local leaders. We have been especially fortunate over the past decade to have had a thoughtful and strategic partner in Chancellor Syverud. Under his leadership, Syracuse University has played a role in many transformative efforts. This includes the historic Micron attraction effort as well as making connections with other leading businesses. Syracuse University is also a key partner in preparing talent for regional growth, the Future Ready Workforce Innovation Consortium. His tenure has also brought forward nationally recognized models of engagement and success, including the National Veterans Resource Center. As Chancellor Syverud enters his final academic year, we extend our deep gratitude for his leadership in elevating Syracuse University’s national profile and for the profound impact the university has had on our region’s progress.”

 

Other
CEO News

Image
IIH 1 Year Celebration
CEO News | 09/17/2026

INSPYRE Innovation Hub’s First Year Fuels Growth, Connections and Entrepreneurial Success

In its first year, CenterState CEO’s INSPYRE Innovation Hub has become a cornerstone of Central New York’s innovation ecosystem.

Image
2026-09-10-convo
CEO News | 09/11/2026

CenterState CEO Chief Executive Officer Rob Simpson Receives Upstate Medical University’s President’s Award for Distinguished Service

The award recognizes Rob’s longstanding service to Central New York and his commitment to building strong, collaborative partnerships across the region.

Image
GNY10 Finalist Graphic
CEO News | 09/09/2026

Empire State Development Announces GENIUS NY Round 10 Finalists

Finalists from around the world will compete in this milestone year for GENIUS NY, the world’s largest accelerator for drones and robotics.

Image
Whiz Kidz Group
CEO News | 09/01/2026

Whiz Kidz Summer Program Inspires the Next Generation of Entrepreneurs

Students spent a week at CenterState CEO's INSPYRE Innovation Hub turning everyday problems into business ideas, building brands and pitching their solutions.

Image
Craig-Witmer-WEB 2026
CEO News | 08/26/2026

Craig Witmer Hired As CenterState CEO's Vice President of Innovation and Entrepreneurship

CenterState CEO is excited to announce Craig Witmer as its Vice President of Innovation and Entrepreneurship.

Image
GNY9 Group graduation photo
CEO News | 08/20/2026

GENIUS NY Cohort 9 Graduates Yearlong Accelerator

The five companies making up GENIUS NY’s ninth cohort finished their time in the yearlong accelerator for uncrewed systems in August.

Image
Rob Simpson Power 100
CEO News | 07/27/2026

Rob Simpson Named to City & State's Upstate Power 100

The list by City & State New York recognizes 100 leaders who are driving new projects across Upstate New Yrk.

Image
Syracuse panoramic skyline
CEO News | 07/23/2026

CenterState CEO Selected to Take Part in Opportunity@Work and Brookings AI Readiness Lab

CenterState CEO is one of six regional economic development organizations that will participate in the the AIRLab.

Image
Kelly Tyrone Collage
CEO News | 07/20/2026

CenterState CEO Announces New Staff Roles

CenterState CEO's Kelly Fumarola and Tyrone Dixon take on new roles in the organization.