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US Ceiling Corp named 2024 Greater Rochester Chamber MWBE Award honoree

Inaugural list of region’s fastest-growing, privately held women- and minority-owned business enterprises revealed

ROCHESTER, N.Y., April 10, 2024—Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce yesterday announced the 2024 Greater Rochester Chamber MWBE Award honorees. The MWBE Awards recognize the Top 50 fastest-growing, privately held minority- and women-owned business enterprises (MWBEs) in the Greater Rochester/Finger Lakes region. In partnership with accounting partner Insero & Co. CPAs, Greater Rochester Chamber will reveal the inaugural rankings and host an in-person award celebration at the Joseph A. Floreano Rochester Riverside Convention Center on Thursday, May 2, 2024.

Representing nearly 2,000 employees, the inaugural Greater Rochester Chamber MWBE Award honorees, listed alphabetically, are as follows:

  • ACS Property Professionals
  • Agency 29
  • Aimee J Lewis PR, Marketing & Communications LLC
  • All New York Process Servers Inc.
  • Avarus Solutions, LLC
  • BRI Consultancy, LLC
  • Broccolo Tree and Lawn Care, Inc.
  • Circle Optics, Inc.
  • Compliance Connection Inc. dba Rogers Enterprises Construction Safety & Quality Consultation
  • Convergent Telecom
  • D2 Media LLC
  • Deborah Ham Whitt Agency, Inc
  • Design Space Studios, LLC
  • Economy Products & Solutions Inc.
  • Effortlessly Healthy LLC
  • Farmhouse Table, LLC
  • Girl Plower Snow Plowing and Landscaping
  • H2H Facility Services, Inc.
  • Henry E. Isaacs Quality Home Remodeling Inc.
  • Image 360 Rochester
  • Imagination Childcare Academy, Inc.
  • Intent
  • JK Executive Strategies, LLC
  • Joseph C. Lu Engineering, P.C. (dba Lu Engineers)
  • Lifetime Financial Group, LLC
  • Linden Digital Marketing
  • Marsherall Partners LLC
  • Media Connection, LLC
  • MedTec InterLinx, LLC
  • On The Move Contracting Services
  • One Stop Janitorial and Office Supply
  • Professional Notary Services, Inc.
  • Rochester Specialty Contractors
  • Rock Environmental, Inc
  • Seating Inc.
  • Stacy K Floral Inc.
  • Sue Steele Landscape Architecture, PLLC
  • The Caswood Group, Inc.
  • Think Out
  • Third Eye Network
  • Thomas Construction and Maintenance
  • Thorley Wealth Management
  • Toggle Communications
  • Upstate Interiors LLC
  • US Ceiling Corp
  • Vanguard Engineering PC
  • Vargas Associates, Inc.
  • Weaver Mancuso Brightman PLLC
  • Wellness 360 Physical Therapy and Massage PLLC
  • Wellness Associates of Greater Rochester LLC

opens in a new windowClick here to download the 2024 Greater Rochester Chamber MWBE Award Honoree list as a PDF

Greater Rochester Chamber President & CEO Bob Duffy said, “Looking at the honorees for our inaugural Greater Rochester Chamber MWBE Awards, we are excited to see and celebrate the outstanding successes of these organizations, spanning industries, sizes and sectors. The collective economic and cultural impact of our small business MWBE Award honorees is remarkable, and we are proud to play a role in celebrating their leaders for breaking down the barriers minorities have historically faced. Our region would not be the same without the influence of these outstanding companies, and we are proud to have them in Greater Rochester. Please join us on Thursday, May 2 to applaud these remarkable organizations and celebrate the promise they offer for an even brighter future.”

To be eligible for the Greater Rochester Chamber MWBE Awards program, applicants needed to show proof of a minimum 51% ownership, operation, and control by minorities and/or women. Companies also must be privately owned, headquartered in the nine-county Greater Rochester/Finger Lakes region, and have earned between $100,000 and $20 million in revenue in each of the three most recent fiscal years. The Greater Rochester Chamber MWBE Awards rankings are calculated based upon revenue, considering both dollar and percentage growth. Individual company revenue information is held confidential.

You are invited to join us for the inaugural 2024 Greater Rochester Chamber MWBE Awards Celebration on Thursday, May from 7:30 to 10 a.m. at the Joseph A. Floreano Convention Center, 123 E Main St, Rochester, NY 14604. In addition to revealing the rankings at the ceremony in May, Greater Rochester Chamber, in partnership with Monroe County, COMIDA, and MCIDC, will recognize and celebrate the 2023 locally certified MWBEs. To learn more about the Monroe County MBWE Certification, please see here.

Registration and sponsorship opportunities are available here for the inaugural ceremony. For more information, please contact Susan George, Director of Events, Training, & Affiliates, at Susan.George@GreaterRochesterChamber.comcreate new email.

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Rochester Business Journal Announces 2024 Women of Excellence Honorees

Rochester, N.Y., March 22, 2024 — Rochester Business Journal has selected Sherry Jackson, vice president of marketing and communications at US Ceiling Corp as a 2024 Women of Excellence honoree.

The Women of Excellence awards recognize high-achieving women for their career accomplishments including professional experience, community involvement, leadership and sustained commitment to mentoring.

In addition, seven women will be inducted into the Circle of Excellence. Members of the Circle of Excellence are prior Women of Excellence honorees who demonstrate longstanding, notable success in the community and who are leading the way for other women.

The honorees were selected by a panel of judges comprised of previous years’ Circle of Excellence and Women of Excellence honorees and the Rochester Business Journal’s editorial team.

“This year’s Women of Excellence are changemakers who demonstrate professional success, break barriers and mentor other women. They work and play hard, and create better lives for their teams, their networks and their families,” said Suzanne Fischer-Huettner, managing director of BridgeTower Media/Rochester Business Journal. “The Circle of Excellence honorees inspire change and help to ensure women have access to every possible opportunity. Their passion and commitment to excellence enrich the Greater Rochester community. The Rochester Business Journal congratulates all of this year’s Women of Excellence.”

This year’s Women of Excellence will be honored at an awards celebration on May 14 at the Joseph A. Floreano Rochester Riverside Convention Center, 123 East Main Street in Rochester. Networking and registration begin at 5 p.m. followed by dinner and the awards program at 6 p.m. The event hashtag is #RBJevents.

Attendance is limited, with sponsors receiving priority access.

There are various sponsorship levels available, which include the right to use the event logo, multimedia marketing, a table to share with co-workers and guests at the event and much more. If seats are available after the sponsorship deadline, a limited number of individual tickets will go on sale. Tables are only available with sponsorship. To secure a sponsorship to ensure you and your guests can celebrate together, contact Suzanne Fischer-Huettner at  opens in a new windowshuettner@bridgetowermedia.comcreate new email.

Winners will be profiled in a special magazine that will be inserted into the May 17 issue of the Rochester Business Journal and will be available online at RBJ.net.

The Presenting Sponsor is Garber Rochester. The Awards Sponsor is Evans Bank. For more information and updated sponsorship information about the Rochester Business Journal’s 2024 Women of Excellence, visit RBJ.net.

About the Rochester Business Journal
Rochester Business Journal has served as the leading source of business news and information in Rochester, N.Y., for 37 years. In addition to its website, RBJ.net, and weekly print publication, Rochester Business Journal publishes more than 25 special products a year including Book of Lists, Explore Greater Rochester, RBJ 75 and Schools Report Card. Rochester Business Journal also hosts 12 annual events to recognize excellence and provide leadership opportunities. Those events include Forty Under 40, Icon Honors, Women of Excellence and Reader Rankings. In addition, Rochester Business Journal facilitates virtual panel discussions bringing local experts from the business community together to discuss current topics and trends. Its Digital Marketing Solutions helps customers with social media, search engine marketing and optimization, retargeting, email marketing and more. Rochester Business Journal and its sister publication, The Daily Record, which covers law and real estate in Western New York, are part of BridgeTower Media, the leading provider of B2B information, research, events and marketing solutions across more than 25 U.S. markets and industries.

2024 Women of Excellence Honorees

Daisy Rivera Algarin, City of Rochester

Ashley N. Amalfi, M.D., Quatela Center for Plastic Surgery

Lisa Belodoff, Bell Collaborative

Betsy Brugg, Woods Oviatt Gilman LLP

Carla Casulo, M.D., Wilmot Cancer Institute, University of Rochester

Lucia D. Colindres-Vasquez, Ibero-American Action League

Ann Cott, Hillside

Rev. Deacon Diane S. Cox, RN, The Episcopal Dioceses of WNY and NWPA

Meaghan de Chateauvieux, Willow Domestic Violence Center

Donna M. Dedee, Holy Childhood and Special Touch Bakery Inc.

Wendy Dettmer, Volunteers of America

Amanda DeVito, Butler/Till

Holly Dutcher, C.U.R.E. Childhood Cancer Association

Jennifer Eslinger, Rochester Regional Health

Elissa L. Fleming, St. Joseph’s Neighborhood Center

Lori Florack, Excellus BlueCross BlueShield

Michaela Gascon, KJT

Kimberly J. Gaylord, Builders Exchange of Rochester

Dr. Shirley JA Green, City of Rochester

Heidi Schult Gregory, Harris Beach PLLC

Heather A. Grotke, MS, PA-C, Rochester Institute of Technology

Maureen “Mo” Hill, The Salvation Army of Greater Rochester

Vicky Hines, URMFG, University of Rochester Medical Center

Lisa Engle Ireland, Longevity Science Foundation

Sherry Jackson, US Ceiling Corp

Maria Karipidis, M.D., FACP, FAAP, CAQ-SM, MVP Health Care

Daniele Lyman-Torres, Bivona Child Advocacy Center

Dr. Heidi Macpherson, SUNY Brockport

Sharon Marble, iCircle Services of the Finger Lakes Inc.

Monica McCullough, MM Development Advisors Inc.

Miriam M. Moore, Town of Brighton

Gail Morelle, Christa Construction

Sandy Paben, Renaissance Groups

Samantha Parisi, Esq., Parisi & Bellavia Law Firm

Anita L. Pelletier, Nixon Peabody LLP

Sarah Peyre, Warner School of Education and Human Development

Kelly A. Pronti, Harter Secrest & Emery LLP

Abby Reinhard, GP Flooring Solutions

Dr. Cheryl L. Repass, Roberts Wesleyan University

Nikisha Ridgeway, Starbridge

Maggie R. Robb, Empire Justice Center

Erika Rosenberg, Center for Governmental Research

Barbara Ross, Conifer Realty LLC

Rev. Angela D. Sims, Ph.D., Colgate Rochester Crozer Divinity School

Marietta Smithrand, First American Equipment Finance

Amy J. Thomas, Monroe County School Boards Association

Stacey Trien, Adams Leclair LLP

Nakia Vargas, Vargas Financial Services

Megan Wildenhaus, Rochester’s Cornerstone Group Ltd

Lizanne Zamites, Rochester Institute of Technology

2024 Circle of Excellence Honorees

Dr. Deanna R. Burt-Nanna, Monroe Community College

Staci Henning, Greater Rochester Enterprise

Kimberly Jones, Butler/Till

Dr. LaShunda Leslie-Smith, Connecting Communities

Sujatha Ramanujan, Luminate

JoAnne M. Ryan, RN, MHA, Ronald McDonald House of Rochester

Lori VanAuken, Catholic Charities Family and Community Services

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USC President Melissa James-Geska and two other prominent Rochesterians featured in Working in the 21st Century: An Oral History of American Work in a Time of Social and Economic Transformation

Public reading by author Mark Larson to be held at Book Culture in Pittsford on March 20

ROCHESTER, N.Y., March 18, 2024—US Ceiling Corp, an award-winning social impact construction firm, today announced that company president, Melissa James-Geska, is featured in the recently released book, Working in the 21st Century, along with two other prominent Rochesterians: Jaime Saunders, CEO of United Way of Greater Rochester and the Finger Lakes, and Mark Siwiec, broker-owner of Elysian Homes and Rochester’s top-selling real estate agent. Author and oral historian, Mark Larson, will be at Book Culture in Pittsford on March 20 from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. for a public reading and book signing event.

James-Geska is one of more than 100 workers from across the socioeconomic spectrum to be interviewed by Larson, reflecting [in the summer of 2022] on her trailblazing journey as a woman and minority in a predominately male-dominated industry. Her inspiring story resonates with themes of growth, resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity, having overcome numerous challenges to establish herself as a leader and role model in the construction sector.

“I am deeply humbled to be featured in this book alongside other remarkable individuals from our community,” says James-Geska. “I hope my professional story, which I’m still writing, inspires others to pursue their dreams fearlessly, regardless of the challenges they may face.”

To RSVP for the public reading on March 20, click here. For more information about the event, visit Book Culture.

About US Ceiling Corp
Based in Rochester, N.Y., with a growing presence in Ithaca, US Ceiling Corp (usceiling.com) is a social impact contractor who specializes in interior commercial, multifamily and residential construction. Now in its 23rd year, the award-winning NYS Certified MWBE firm is committed to diversifying the construction industry and empowering lives. People-focused and purpose-driven, US Ceiling partners with like-minded organizations to provide skilled trades training and employment opportunities—helping people build economic self-reliance and inclusive, equitable communities that thrive.

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US Ceiling Corp promotes Amie Maloney to company controller

Maloney also appointed to firm’s esteemed executive leadership team

ROCHESTER, N.Y., January 4, 2024—US Ceiling Corp, an award-winning social impact construction firm, is pleased to announce the promotion of Amie Maloney to company controller and executive leadership team member.

In her new position, Maloney will play a pivotal role in overseeing US Ceiling Corp’s financial operations, guiding strategic financial decisions and the firm’s fiscal responsibility and growth. As a key member of the firm’s executive leadership team, she will contribute her insights and expertise to high-level decision-making processes, ensuring that financial considerations are integrated seamlessly into US Ceiling Corp’s overall business strategy. Maloney joined US Ceiling Corp in late 2022 as accounting administrator and was promoted to business operations manager in 2023.

“We are thrilled to announce Amie’s well-deserved promotion to company controller,” says US Ceiling Corp President Melissa James-Geska. “She has a keen understanding of our company’s financial landscape and her dedication to maintaining our financial integrity and developing financial strategies will play a crucial role in steering us toward continued success in an ever-evolving market. This promotion and elevation to our executive leadership team not only recognizes Amie’s accomplishments, it reinforces US Ceiling Corp’s commitment to honoring diverse experiences and cultivating top-tier talent within our organization.”

Maloney studied science and liberal arts at Monroe Community College and holds professional certifications for medical billing and coding. She is also a notary public and co-founder of “Jeeps for Jake,” an annual memorial Jeep ride honoring her late son, with all proceeds benefitting Mary Cariola Children’s Center.                                                                 

About US Ceiling Corp
Based in Rochester, N.Y., with a growing presence in Ithaca, US Ceiling Corp (usceiling.com) is a social impact contractor who specializes in interior commercial, multifamily and residential construction. Now in its 23rd year, the award-winning NYS Certified MWBE firm is committed to diversifying the construction industry and empowering lives. People-focused and purpose-driven, US Ceiling partners with like-minded organizations to provide skilled trades training and employment opportunities—helping people build economic self-reliance and inclusive, equitable communities that thrive.

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Bull’s Head revitalization team to unveil project updates in public presentation

DevelopROC invites community members to an information session on January 22; Zoom meeting option available for those who can’t attend in person

ROCHESTER, N.Y., January 2, 2024—DevelopROC, the dedicated team behind the transformative Bull’s Head Revitalization project, today announced a public presentation scheduled for January 22, 2024. The event aims to bring together community members for a progress update.

Event Details:
Date: January 22, 2024
Time: 6 to 8 p.m.
Location: St. Mary’s Campus, 89 Genesee Street, First Floor Meeting Room
(Free parking is available in the St. Mary’s Campus parking garage)
Click here for Zoom meeting link; Meeting ID: 835 3206 6081; Passcode: 278525

The Bull’s Head Revitalization project represents years of neighborhood-based planning driven by a strong commitment from residents and other stakeholders, and the City of Rochester to catalyze redevelopment in a community that has experienced significant disinvestment over several decades. DevelopROC is actively working toward restoring the livability and vibrancy of the Bull’s Head area. The information session will feature key members of DevelopROC, who will outline project milestones and future plans, as well as provide community members an opportunity to engage with the team.

“Public input is critical as we reimagine a future for Bull’s Head. It will once again become a vibrant and hope-filled neighborhood, and will overcome its history of disinvestment,” says Rochester Mayor Malik D. Evans. “The partners that make up DevelopROC have a proven track record for meaningful redevelopment in cities with challenged neighborhoods. These partners, along with residents, have an incredible opportunity to bring Bull’s Head back to life.”

“DevelopROC believes in the power of community collaboration and recognizes the importance of keeping the public informed about ongoing initiatives that shape the local landscape,” says Melissa James-Geska, DevelopROC co-founder and president of USC [US Ceiling Corp], a Rochester-based award-winning MWBE social impact contractor committed to diversifying the construction industry and providing skilled trades training and equitable employment opportunities. “This event allows community members to be part of the conversation and contribute to the continued success of the Bull’s Head Revitalization project.”

“The public presentation on January 22 is a testament to our commitment to transparency and collaboration. It’s not just an update on the Bull’s Head Revitalization project; it’s a shared conversation about our collective vision for a vibrant future,” says Dennis Pemberton, DevelopROC co-founder and executive managing partner of Florida-based The Dawson Company, a second-generation African-American-owned company and leader in urban multifamily and urban mixed-use development that has been at the forefront of breaking down barriers for African-Americans in real estate for more than five decades.

“Our team is fueled by a deep commitment to create lasting positive change,” says Brian Murray, DevelopROC co-founder and CEO of Philadelphia-based Shift Capital, a neighborhood investment group who executes real estate projects  and financing strategies that create equitable communities for the long-term. “The public presentation is an opportunity to share our progress and engage with the community we aim to serve.”

Information Session Highlights:

  1. Project milestones – Learn about strides made since the project’s inception.
  2. Community impact – Discover the positive impact the project will have on the local community.
  3. Future plans – See the long-awaited and highly anticipated preliminary rollout of the Bull’s Head Revitalization proposal.
  4. Community engagement – Offer valuable feedback to help shape ongoing revitalization efforts.

All members of the community are encouraged to attend the public presentation. DevelopROC’s presentation will be available to view following the event at developroc.com, along with an online feedback form for those unable to attend.

About DevelopROC
DevelopROC is a diverse collaboration that unites a wealth of expertise in development, construction and placemaking—complemented by a track record of successfully delivering community-centric projects with a focus on equity. Together, the DevelopROC team shares a collective vision dedicated to prioritizing people and fostering thriving communities by creating dynamic places and spaces.

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Rochester Business Journal Announces 2023 Leaders in Construction Awards

Rochester, N.Y., August 25, 2023 — Rochester Business Journal has selected US Ceiling Corp and company president, Melissa James-Geska, to receive a 2023 Leaders in Construction Award.

The 2023 Leaders in Construction Awards celebrate the individuals and companies who are changing the landscape of the Rochester region through design, construction, project management and more.

Honorees for the 2023 Leaders in Construction Awards were chosen by the editorial staff of the Rochester Business Journal.

“The 2023 Leaders in Construction are leading the way toward growth and prosperity for Rochester and the Western New York community. They create jobs, build healthy spaces and help businesses achieve their dreams,” said Suzanne Fischer-Huettner, managing director of BridgeTower Media/Rochester Business Journal. “Their work makes a brighter future for our community. We are pleased to celebrate these leaders and their outstanding achievements.”

This year’s Leaders in Construction recipients will be honored Oct. 23 at an awards celebration at the Hyatt Regency Rochester, 125 East Main Street in Rochester. Registration and a networking reception begin at 4:30 p.m., with the awards program starting at 5:30 p.m. The evening will include food stations and drink pairings. The event hashtag is #RBJevents.

Attendance is limited, and honorees and sponsors receive priority access. There are various sponsorship levels available which include the right to use the event logo, multimedia marketing, a table to share with co-workers, family and guests at the event, and much more. Tables are only available with sponsorship. To secure a sponsorship to ensure you and your guests can celebrate together, contact Suzanne Fischer-Huettner at  opens in a new windowshuettner@bridgetowermedia.comcreate new email.

Honorees will be profiled in the Oct. 27 issue of the Rochester Business Journal and online at RBJ.net.

The Presenting Sponsor is Evans Bank. For more information, including the most updated listing of sponsors, visit RBJ.net.

About the Rochester Business Journal

The Rochester Business Journal has served as the leading source of business news and information in Rochester, N.Y., for 35 years. In addition to its website, RBJ.net, and weekly print publication, the Rochester Business Journal publishes more than 25 special products a year including Book of Lists, Explore Greater Rochester, RBJ 75 and Schools Report Card. The Rochester Business Journal also hosts 13 annual events to recognize excellence and provide leadership opportunities. Those events include Forty Under 40, Icon Honors, Women of Excellence and Reader Rankings. In addition, the Rochester Business Journal facilitates monthly webinars bringing local experts from the business community together to discuss current topics and trends. Its Digital Marketing Solutions helps customers with social media, search engine marketing and optimization, retargeting, email marketing and more. Rochester Business Journal and its sister publication, The Daily Record, which covers law and real estate in Western New York, are part of BridgeTower Media, one of the country’s leading business-to-business media companies with more than 40 print and digital publications in more than 25 U.S. markets.

2023 Leaders in Construction

Construction – Companies

Architects

CJS Architects

Greater Living Architecture, P.C.

HUNT Engineers, Architects, Land Surveyors, and Landscape Architect, DPC

Developers

DiMarco Group

Home Leasing Construction LLC

Konar Properties

Riedman

Rochester’s Cornerstone Group, Ltd.

General Contractors

Christa Construction

DiMarco Constructors

UDN General Construction

Home Builders

New Energy Works

Project Managers

HB Cornerstone

Residential Contractors

Long Construction NY LLC

Subcontractors

GP Flooring Solutions

Livingston Associates

Tactical Construction, Inc.

US Ceiling Corp

Construction – Individuals

Architects

David Crowe, DJC Architecture

Dan Glading, SWBR

Michael Place, LaBella Associates, DPC

Developers

Bret Garwood, Home Leasing LLC

Engineers

Bob Steehler, LaBella Associates, DPC

General Contractors

Brian Kelly, Manning Squires Hennig Co., Inc.

Interior Design/Staging

Anne Weis, CID, LaBella Associates, DPC

Lending/Bonding Agents

Kelly Shea, SDN Insurance

Lifetime Achievement

Howard Konar, Konar Properties

Project Managers

Jon Heerkens, LaBella Associates, DPC

Rising Star

Jeff Antonitto, Graves Brothers Home Improvement

Subcontractors

Ron Billitier, Billitier Electric Inc.

Melissa James-Geska, US Ceiling Corp

Monica Kelley, Mco Flooring, LLC

Abby Reinhard, GP Flooring Solutions

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US Ceiling Corp tapped to transform new home of founding chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha, nation’s first Black intercollegiate Greek-letter fraternity

Award-winning MWBE construction firm to help reimagine 11,000-SF,
15-bedroom house located in Ithaca’s Cornell Heights Historic District

ITHACA, N.Y., August 16, 2023—US Ceiling Corp, an award-winning NYS Certified MWBE firm committed to diversifying the construction industry, today announced it will serve as general contractor for the founding chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha’s™ physical residence hall and program house, the “House of Alpha,” located in Ithaca’s Cornell Heights Historic District.

Owned by the 501c3 nonprofit Alpha Light Fund Inc., the 11,000-square-foot House of Alpha, located at 105 Westbourne Lane, not only becomes the first-ever permanent residence for brothers of the Alpha Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., but also serves as a catalyst and platform to develop current and future leaders in all fields. The newly restored facility will be the location of the Alpha Light Fund Leadership Institute: a cultural destination site for support, rejuvenation, growth and development. The Institute’s programs and services are designed to strengthen and reimagine social impact to create a more just and equitable society.

Originally built in 1927, the 15-bedroom historic structure features exposed timber beams, slate roofing and custom finishes. Renovations include an ADA-accessible entrance, new mechanical and electrical systems, new signage and flooring, window and exterior siding restoration, sitework and exterior patios, and a structural steel addition and roof deck. US Ceiling Corp was awarded a contract to oversee demolition and abatement, and interior and exterior construction to transform the space for future occupants.

“As a minority- and woman-owned construction company continually working to build our capacity these past 22 years, we are deeply honored to partner with Alpha Light Fund and the founding chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha on such a historically significant initiative,” says US Ceiling Corp President Melissa James-Geska. This project represents a lot of firsts, most importantly for our trailblazing clients. To have a place to call home, that you own, right near Cornell University—where everything began in 1906—is beyond inspiring. This general contracting opportunity is also the first of its kind for my organization. We have worked very hard to break barriers and strengthen our value proposition and service offerings to be able to execute a project such as this, and we’re very grateful for the trust placed in our team and the opportunity to establish a foothold in the Ithaca market. We are also thrilled to be connecting with and hiring other skilled trade professionals in the area, as US Ceiling Corp is part of the Southworks development team, and this project is a wonderful catalyst for that initiative as well.”

“We are delighted to partner with US Ceiling Corp in their mission to empower lives and provide opportunities for marginalized individuals and underserved Black communities, which perfectly aligns with the goals of our organization,” says Alpha Light Fund President Dr. Dennis Mitchell. “Just as the founding of Alpha Chapter was like the ‘big bang’ from which all Black Greek organizations sprang, we hope this milestone for Alpha Phi Alpha’s founding chapter both provides significant value for the local Black community and sets a precedent that other Black Greek collegiate chapters across the globe will follow.”

AEPM International, LLC, a full-service, minority-owned architectural and engineering firm is overseeing the design of the project. Demolition and abatement for the residence hall is under way, and construction began in July. Prospective bidders interested in the project should contact US Ceiling Corp Preconstruction Manager Rich Nestlen at rich@usceiling.comcreate new email. Minority- and woman-owned construction companies are encouraged to participate.

Follow this developing story on US Ceiling Corp’s social media channels or the news section of their website.

About US Ceiling Corp
Based in Rochester, N.Y., with a growing presence in Ithaca, US Ceiling Corp (usceiling.com) is a social impact contractor that specializes in interior commercial, multifamily and residential construction. Now in its 22nd year, the award-winning NYS Certified M/WBE firm is committed to diversifying the construction industry and empowering lives. People-focused and purpose-driven, US Ceiling partners with like-minded organizations to provide skilled trades training and employment opportunities—helping people build economic self-reliance and inclusive, equitable communities that thrive. LinkedIn: US Ceiling Corp; Instagram: @us_ceiling_corp

About Alpha Light Fund
Alpha Light Fund Inc. [alphalightfund.org] is a 501c3 nonprofit organization committed to supporting initiatives and projects that improve the lives of young African-Americans and Black communities.

About Alpha Phi Alpha™
The Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., headquartered in Baltimore, Md., was founded on December 4, 1906, at Cornell University in Ithaca, N.Y. The Fraternity has long stood at the forefront of the African-American community’s fight for civil rights through Alpha men, such as Martin Luther King, Jr., Adam Clayton Powell, Thurgood Marshall, Paul Robeson, Andrew Young, Edward Brooke and Cornel West. The fraternity, through its more than 720 college and alumni chapters and general-organization members, serves communities in the United States, Africa, Europe, Asia and the Caribbean. Visit and follow Alphi Phi Alpha on Twitter @apa1906network.

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US Ceiling Corp promotes Casey Johnson to vice president of logistics, safety & administration

ROCHESTER, N.Y., August 11, 2023—US Ceiling Corp, an award-winning social impact construction firm, is delighted to announce the promotion of Casey Johnson to vice president of logistics, safety & administration.

In his new position, Johnson aims to continue creating successful roadmaps to support the long-term strategy and future growth of US Ceiling Corp by focusing on refining company administrative processes, identifying opportunities for improvement and developing solutions to enhance operations.

“Casey has emerged as an extraordinary leader and we are grateful for his ‘can-do/will-do’ attitude and his unwavering vision,” says US Ceiling President Melissa James-Geska. “He has leaned into learning nearly every facet of our operations, finding ways to help streamline processes and ensure our company runs like a well-oiled machine. Casey is the epitome of the US Ceiling Way, embodying every one of our core values.”

Johnson joined US Ceiling in 2018 as safety coordinator, setting standards to ensure safe working conditions for employees. From supervising activities and inspecting equipment and property to identifying strategies and implementing procedures to prevent future accidents, his drive, curiosity and expertise have made him a tremendous asset to the US Ceiling team. Since that time, Johnson has also taken on additional responsibilities, overseeing US Ceiling’s technology needs, warehouse operations and its workforce development program, USC Academy, which is designed to bolster the skills of the firm’s workforce, as well as partner with like-minded organizations that promote diversity in construction and the development and increase of skilled tradespeople. Through USC Academy, Johnson developed and implemented the program’s Excellence & Empowerment Series, a year-long training program dedicated to helping elevate the careers of future company leaders.

“I’m truly honored to take on this new role,” says Johnson. “The prospect of helping craft the blueprint for our company’s future growth and efficiency is both a challenge and exciting endeavor for me. Our values are the cornerstone of our success and I look forward to implementing strategies, policies and initiatives to keep us at the forefront of our industry.”

Johnson studied history and photography at Monroe Community College and business management and human resources at Empire State College. He has also earned the following construction industry certifications: OSHA 10-hour, OSHA 30-hour, Lead Renovation, Asbestos Renovation and Respirator Fit Testing.

About US Ceiling Corp
Based in Rochester, N.Y., with a growing presence in Ithaca, US Ceiling Corp (usceiling.com) is a social impact contractor who specializes in interior commercial, multifamily and residential construction. Now in its 22nd year, the award-winning NYS Certified MWBE firm is committed to diversifying the construction industry and empowering lives. People-focused and purpose-driven, US Ceiling partners with like-minded organizations to provide skilled trades training and employment opportunities—helping people build economic self-reliance and inclusive, equitable communities that thrive.

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Rochester Business Journal Announces 2023 Elevating Women Honorees

News Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                             

CONTACT: Donna Nupp

EMAIL: dnupp@bridgetowermedia.comcreate new email

Rochester, N.Y., August 11,2023 — Rochester Business Journal has selected US Ceiling Corp as a 2023 Elevating Women honoree.

The Elevating Women awards shine a light on companies and organizations that have demonstrated tangible efforts and documented results in supporting and empowering women in New York. Nominated companies are judged on documented hiring and promoting of women; leadership positions held by women; advocacy for the cause of women internally and externally; and efforts to cultivate the next generation of women professionals.

Elevating Women honorees were selected by the editors of the Rochester Business Journal.

“The organizations being honored by the 2023 Elevating Women awards are committed to advancing women in the workplace. They know the value of recruiting, hiring, promoting and mentoring women,” said Suzanne Fischer-Huettner, managing director of BridgeTower Media/Rochester Business Journal. “In addition, they recognize the importance of women on their board and in the C-Suite and work to combat inequality. We at the Rochester Business Journal are pleased to congratulate this year’s honorees.”

The winners will be honored at a cocktail reception and awards celebration in conjunction with the Women’s Leadership Summit on Sept. 28 at the Joseph A. Floreano Rochester Riverside Convention Center, 123 East Main Street in Rochester. A general networking reception starts at 4:30 p.m. with the awards program at 5:15 p.m. The event hashtag is #RBJevents.

Attendance is limited. Honorees and sponsors get the first chance to secure tables. Sponsorship includes a table for guests, multimedia marketing, logo usage and more. To secure a sponsorship, contact Darice Dixon at ddixon@thedailyrecord.comcreate new email.

Winners will be profiled in a special supplement that will be inserted into the Sept. 29 issue of the Rochester Business Journal and will be available online at RBJ.net.

The Social Media Red Carpet Sponsor is American Packaging Corporation. For more information and updated sponsorship information about the Rochester Business Journal’s 2023 Elevating Women, visit RBJ.net.

About the Rochester Business Journal

The Rochester Business Journal has served as the leading source of business news and information in Rochester, N.Y., for 36 years. In addition to its website, RBJ.net, and weekly print publication, the Rochester Business Journal publishes more than 25 special products a year including Book of Lists, Explore Greater Rochester, RBJ 75 and Schools Report Card. The Rochester Business Journal also hosts 11 annual events to recognize excellence and provide leadership opportunities. Those events include Forty Under 40, Icon Honors, Women of Excellence and Reader Rankings. In addition, the Rochester Business Journal facilitates virtual panel discussions bringing local experts from the business community together to discuss current topics and trends. Its Digital Marketing Solutions helps customers with social media, search engine marketing and optimization, retargeting, email marketing and more. The Rochester Business Journal and its sister publication, The Daily Record, which covers law and real estate in Western New York, are part of BridgeTower Media, the leading provider of B2B information, research, events and marketing solutions across more than 25 U.S. markets and industries.

2023 Elevating Women Honorees

Bivona Child Advocacy Center

Coordinated Care Services Inc. (CCSI)

Disability EmpowHer Network Inc.

Dixon Schwabl + Company

Excellus BlueCross BlueShield

First American Equipment Finance

Friendly Senior Living

Girls on the Run of Greater Rochester

Heritage Christian Services

Home Leasing LLC

L3Harris Technologies

LáLew Public Relations

Love for Words

Mower

Quatela Center for Plastic Surgery

Rochester Regional Health

The Bonadio Group

US Ceiling Corp

Women’s Foundation of Genesee Valley (WFGV)

YWCA of Rochester & Monroe County

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US Ceiling Corp President Melissa James-Geska named to RBJ’s Power 30 Construction & Real Estate list two years in a row

Rochester Business Journal today named US Ceiling Corp President Melissa James-Geska as one of its Power 30 Construction & Real Estate list honorees. The annual listing, which recognizes Rochester business leaders who are shaping the local landscape and community, includes a brief Q&A with each power player.

“I am extremely grateful to have earned a spot again this year and deeply appreciative for all the ways the Rochester Business Journal continues to elevate leaders in our community,” says James-Geska.

Now in its 22nd year, US Ceiling is an award-winning, social impact subcontractor committed to diversifying the construction industry and empowering lives. People-focused and purpose-driven, US Ceiling partners with like-minded organizations to provide skilled trade training and employment opportunities—helping people build economic self-reliance and inclusive, equitable communities that thrive.

To view the full Power 30 list, click here. To view James-Geska’s profile, click here.