New Bronx Chamber of Commerce establishes Joseph Kelleher Award of Excellence at 2022 Annual Gala

New York, NY The New Bronx Chamber of Commerce held their 2022 Gala “Celebrating Our Members” at the Marina Del Rey in The Bronx, honoring founding members Joseph Kelleher of Simone Development, John Collazzi, former publisher and founder of the Bronx Times-Reporter who was instrumental in the re-establishment of the Chamber in 2001, and the New York Yankees, represented by Brian Smith, senior vice president, on behalf of founding vice president George Steinbrenner and the Steinbrenner family.

In recognition of his tireless work in support of The New Bronx Chamber of Commerce, an award was created this year in Joe Kelleher’s name that will be presented annually to an individual or organization that exemplifies his commitment to community, economic development, philanthropy, and leadership. Kelleher is the president of Simone Metro Properties and has served as the chairman of the Bronx Chamber of Commerce’s board of directors since 2008.

Joe Simone, president of Simone Development Companies, presented the inaugural Joseph Kelleher Award of Excellence to Brian Smith, who accepted the award on behalf of the New York Yankees, and to Kristin and Ryan Kelleher, who accepted the award on behalf of their father.

“This award is especially meaningful because it’s named for my friend and colleague, Joe Kelleher,” said Simone.

Kelleher began his career with the Real Estate Division at NYNEX where he served as property manager for the corporate headquarters building in Manhattan. Subsequently, he served as director of property management for Catalano Kornblum Management Corp. and Winoker Realty Corp. as well as CEO for Casino New York LLC. He joined Simone Development in 2003 to direct the leasing and management of the Hutchinson Metro Center, the company’s premier office complex in the Pelham Bay section of the Bronx, featuring Class A office, medical, retail and educational space in a 42-acre landscaped, campus setting, and he continues to serve as president of that property.

“Through the support of our members, sponsors and the Bronx business community, The Bronx Chamber of Commerce’s 2022 Annual Gala was a huge success, celebrating our resilient  business members who have worked in close partnership to foster economic growth, expand our mutual networks and create a stronger Bronx business community,” said Lisa Sorin, president of the Bronx Chamber of Commerce. “This year, our awards and sponsorships highlighted individuals and organizations that have made an outstanding impact on our community throughout the challenges of the pandemic. With their support and guidance, our members are flourishing.”

The New Bronx Chamber of Commerce is one of the most influential voices for business in Bronx County, known for its commitment to legislative advocacy. The Chamber hosts a wide range of programs, events, and services for its members, ranging from large corporations to cultural institutions, universities and colleges, hospitals and medical centers, and small to mid-sized businesses. Currently, the Chamber also provides access to free pandemic recovery and other resources through the NYC Small Business Resource Network, open to all Bronx small businesses.

Founded in 1894, the Bronx Chamber of Commerce - a not-for-profit, membership-driven organization - has played a key role in the borough’s economic development and transformation of the Bronx business community. The Bronx Chamber was instrumental in many commercial projects that have employed thousands in the borough, including: the creation of Fordham Plaza; creation of the truck stop facility at the Hunts Point Terminal Market; the successful 1986 campaign to keep the New York Yankees in the Bronx; advocacy for a Free Trade Zone in the borough; collaboration with President Jimmy Carter to produce much-needed revenue for businesses via Project: Special Impact; partnership with David Rockefeller on an urban policy plan for the Bronx; creation of The Bronx Chamber Action Group to clean up and beautify Bronx commercial corridors.