Cooper MacDonnell, President of Eastern Security Services, is CNY’s Family Business Leader of the Year

Posted on December 14, 2023

Cooper MacDonnell, President of Eastern Security Services, is CNY’s Family Business Leader of the Year

Last week, the CNY Business Journal presented Cooper MacDonnell, President of Eastern Security Services, the Family Business Leader of the Year Award.

For those who don’t know, Eastern Security Services is the leading provider of professionally-monitored burglary alarm, fire alarm, access control, video surveillance, and intercom systems in Central New York. They have been in business since 1976, and members of the chamber since 1978.

To say that 2023 was a game-changing year for this local security company would be an understatement. Aside from accomplishing a record sales year, Eastern Security Services also hired over a dozen new employees, expanded to Rochester and Buffalo – now totaling 4 locations in Upstate New York, and launched an aggressive rebranding and social media marketing campaign. They have been featured in the Rochester Business Journal, as well as IPVM – a major security industry publication, for exposing the ongoing and irresponsible practice of alarm operators working from home. They were also recognized by CenterState CEO as Economic Champions for their achievements this year, in addition to their ongoing and unwavering dedication to protecting life and property in CNY.  

During the award ceremony, Cooper shared that his driving force to grow the family business was the loss of his older brother, Hunter, who passed away in 2022. While he certainly accomplished his original goal of westward expansion, Cooper has made several significant investments in Syracuse. The latest of which, is a 20’ tall video surveillance trailer, which boasts professional monitoring by a local central station in Syracuse, four separate motorized cameras with 25x optical zoom, and infrared technology effective over 300’. Known by the Eastern Security Services team as “Big Red,” this new addition to the team is truly the pinnacle of security and dependability.

As much as Cooper and his team were able to accomplish in one year, there is no talk of slowing down. The shared sentiment throughout each department is that 2023 was just the beginning.

To learn more about Eastern Security Services, visit their website at www.EasternSecurity.net or give them a call at (315) 422-4141. You can also follow them on Facebook, LinkedIn, and TikTok!

CenterState CEO

Other Member News

The MOST Launches STEM Under 40 Awards Presented by Micron Technology
May 21, 2026

The MOST Launches STEM Under 40 Awards Presented by Micron Technology

A new special event recognizing contributions to STEM fields from 20 professionals under age 40 across Central New York. 

15th Annual Red, White, and Blue BBQ Fundraiser flyer
May 20, 2026

Clear Path for Veterans 15th Annual Red, White & Blue BBQ Fundraiser

Clear Path for Veterans is celebrating 15 years of serving veterans, service members, and military families with its largest community fundraiser of the year.

Oswego Health
May 20, 2026

Marshall+Sterling Investment Brings Advanced Monitoring Technology to Oswego Health, Enhancing Care for Mothers and Babies

Gift funds new cardiac monitor and stands, supporting safer care for mothers and babies in Central New York

Bill Brumstead
May 20, 2026

Give Now, Decide Later: A Smarter Way to Approach Charitable Giving for High-Income Earners

With tax season wrapped up and continued conversations locally around nonprofit sustainability and community giving, this piece offers a fresh, practical perspective for community members looking to make a meaningful impact.

Friends of the Rosamond Gifford Zoo Announces New Date for ‘Zoo Run Run’ 5K on June 20
May 20, 2026

Friends of the Rosamond Gifford Zoo Announces New Date for ‘Zoo Run Run’ 5K on June 20

The event offers a unique opportunity to get some exercise while hanging out with an array of beautiful wild creatures.

DisrUpstate Leadership Summit 2026 | June 12 - 14
May 19, 2026

DisrUpstate Takes Leadership Off the Grid: Three-Day Summit Heads to the Adirondacks This June

The Summit is built for leaders who are done with corporate theater — and ready for something real.

NBT Bank Recognized with 2025 Cigna Healthy Workforce Designation™
May 19, 2026

NBT Bank Recognized with 2025 Cigna Healthy Workforce Designation™

Cigna Healthcare® has selected NBT Bank as a recipient of its 2025 gold level Healthy Workforce Designation for demonstrating a strong commitment to improving the health and vitality of its employees through a workplace well-being program.

Casino Player Magazine Awards Turning Stone Resort Casino “2026 Best Overall Dining” in New York State
May 18, 2026

Casino Player Magazine Awards Turning Stone Resort Casino “2026 Best Overall Dining” in New York State

The 2026 Casino Player Magazine “Best of Dining & Nightlife Awards” recognizes the best establishments in the entire casino industry. Voted on by guests and readers, Turning Stone recognized as the top property in New York in 12…

Harborfest Fundraiser TR
May 15, 2026

Harborfest Fundraiser at Texas Roadhouse

Fundraiser for Oswego Harborfest at Texas Roadhouse.