Gtr. Binghamton Chamber of Commerce celebrates 62nd annual dinner & meeting

 Binghamton, NY The Greater Binghamton Chamber of Commerce hosted its 62^nd annual dinner and meeting on May 28, bringing together more than 300 regional business and civic leaders to celebrate outstanding contributions to the community. 

The event, held at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel and presented by title sponsor Visions Federal Credit Union, recognized four award recipients and ushered in new board leadership for 2026–2027.

2026 Award Recipients

Small Business Person of the Year — T.J. Ciaravino, Worldwide Printing (Vestal). Under Ciaravino’s leadership, Worldwide Printing has achieved significant revenue growth over the past five years. The company launched the “Community Tee Project,” which donated more than $60,000 to over 400 local businesses and organizations during the pandemic years. 

Entrepreneur of the Year — Matt Ebbers, founder and creative director, M.E. Creativeworks (Binghamton). Ebbers launched his multimedia production company after years of pursuing audio engineering and live event production. His studio, located just three blocks from where he bought his first camera at age 14, now serves a broad range of community partners. 

Civic Leader of the Year — Naima Kradjian, CEO and artistic director, Goodwill Theatre (Johnson City). Kradjian has led the transformation of two historic Endicott Johnson Shoe Company buildings into a regional Performing Arts Center and Theatre Arts Educational facility. Goodwill Theatre has purchased eleven blighted buildings in the Village of Johnson City, raised more than $11 million in grants and private donations, and presents over 65 shows per season at the Schorr Family Firehouse Stage. 

Distinguished Chamber Volunteer of the Year — Dimon and Bacorn has served as a critical volunteer for the Chamber’s Annual Bridge Run for 16 years, handling supply pickup from multiple retailers each year to support the race. 

Bridge Run Raises Funds for Gigi’s Playhouse
The Chamber recognized the success of its 16^th Annual Bridge Run, held May 3, 2026, which drew more than 1,300 runners. Chamber president and CEO Stacey Duncan presented a $2,000 check to Jan McCauley, executive director of Gigi’s Playhouse, this year’s designated charity partner. Gigi’s Playhouse provides free educational, therapeutic, and career development programs for individuals with Down syndrome and their families.

New Board Leadership for 2026–2027
Members in attendance formally elected the 2026–2027 board of directors and executive committee. Sheila Doyle (retired, Binghamton University) was elected chairperson of the board, succeeding Kevin Blake, president of Integris. Scott Kurkoski of Hinman, Howard & Kattell was named chairperson-elect. Tim Strong of Visions Federal Credit Union will serve as secretary, David Bonczek of Mirabito Energy Products as treasurer, and Patricia Nilsen of NYSEG and RG&E as assistant treasurer. Kathy Connerton of Guthrie Lourdes was named director emeritus. Shane Nunes of Universal Instruments was appointed as a new director for a three-year term.

Regional Growth Highlights
Duncan reported strong economic momentum for the Greater Binghamton region. In 2025, The Agency and its development partners supported more than $85 million in new private-sector investment, generated $16 million in new revenue to local governments, and helped create more than 475 jobs. 

Key milestones include the release of the Broome Technology Park Draft Environmental Impact Statement, the launch of pre-apprenticeship training programs with BAE Systems, National Pipe & Plastics, Amphenol, and George Industries, and the Chamber’s appointment as regional industry liaison for the New Energy New York Energy Storage Engine, led by Binghamton University. 

Doyle noted that The Agency has attracted more than $1 billion in capital investment over the past five years through projects including the redevelopment of Oakdale Commons, construction of the UHS Wilson Tower, and multiple new housing and manufacturing expansions.