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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
Founded in 2001, 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.

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US Ceiling Corp President Melissa James-Geska honored by City of Rochester with 2023 MWBE Champion Award

Special award recognizes James-Geska’s exemplary leadership, vision, resilience and the drive to move her organization forward and improve the lives of others

ROCHESTER, N.Y., March 22, 2023—The City of Rochester tonight honored US Ceiling Corp President Melissa James-Geska with the 2023 MWBE Champion Award for breaking barriers and paving the way for other minority- and women-owned businesses in the community. James-Geska is the first MWBE owner in the history of the City of Rochester to earn a major development contract—having been named one of the prime contractor partners for the Bull’s Head Revitalization project in 2021. James-Geska is also chair of the Builders Exchange of Rochester and is the first woman and person of color to serve in such a capacity in the organization’s 135-year history.

James-Geska stressed the importance of community during her acceptance speech, saying, “Let this be a time that we unite and create a common sense of community in Upstate New York. Minority and women-owned businesses must rally together to advocate with a collective voice. In the words of Thomas Paine, ‘It is not in numbers, but in unity that our great strength lies.’ Let us humble ourselves, so that we are open and ready for growth. Let us ask for help when we need it and offer to help when we can.”

Under James-Geska’s leadership, US Ceiling has emerged as an industry force, helping change Rochester’s landscape by working on some of its most notable and transformative construction projects, including Tower280 at Midtown, the Sibley Building and The Nathaniel Apartments. Ever the visionary, in 2020, she launched US Ceiling’s development arm, USC, bringing workforce development and social impact real estate development to projects in Rochester and Ithaca.

James-Geska takes great pride in paying her success forward—continually serving as a role model and mentor, and contributing to various nonprofit organizations that address issues affecting minorities and women. Passionate about bridging the labor gap and promoting diversity in construction, she works to provide practical experience and employment opportunities through her firm’s skilled trades training and workforce development program, USC Academy, which has provided 337,723 hours of paid skills training since its launch in 2019. Since opening its doors in 2001, US Ceiling has created 460 jobs in the Rochester community, helped build 10,807 affordable housing units and made 170 charitable donations to dozens of community-focused organizations.

The evening’s awards event was held at the Strathallan as a kick-off to the City’s inaugural Upstate NY MWBE Conference, which will take place over the next two days.

About US Ceiling Corp
Founded in 2001, US Ceiling Corp (usceiling.com) is a social impact subcontractor that 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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Unique partnership announces details of groundbreaking SouthWorks project

Values-aligned community developers to transform the former Emerson Power Transmission site into landmark neighborhood

ITHACA, N.Y., December 8, 2022— The 95-acre site in South Hill, formerly known to Ithacans as Morse Chain, Emerson Power Transmission Plant, and most recently, the Chain Works District, is being reimagined through a diverse collaboration that combines extensive development, construction and neighborhood investment experience, and proven track records in delivering equitable community-serving projects.

The $300+ million endeavor, now known as SouthWorks, is led by Philadelphia-based SHIFT Capital, a nationally recognized social impact real estate firm, in addition to the property’s previous developer, David Lubin, of Ithaca-based L Enterprises. SHIFT has also tapped two leading minority- and woman-owned firms to take part—Rochester-based, US Ceiling Corp, led by Melissa James-Geska and New York City-based, Xylem Projects, led by Nnenna Lynch. Vicki Taylor Brous, a longtime Ithacan and project coordinator for the site, joins SHIFT in the same role. The SouthWorks team plans to create a new mixed-use neighborhood, including housing, technology, commercial, retail and industrial/manufacturing to serve as a catalyst for Ithaca’s local economy.

“SouthWorks is a potential game changer for Ithaca. Its size and scope allow us to intentionally and collectively, with businesses and residents, design a neighborhood that welcomes leading-edge thinking and practices, drives sustainability throughout, and connects living and culture site-, city- and townwide,” says SHIFT Capital Partner and CEO Brian Murray. “To do this, we brought together a team who reflects SHIFT’s values and vision and is driven by a shared dedication to Ithaca. David, Melissa, Nnenna and Vicki each add a distinct expertise to the team, and together with the community, we are able to plan the next steps for the future Ithaca.”

“SouthWorks is a landmark project that will help define, bolster and advance the Ithaca region, generating thousands of jobs and economic opportunities for generations to come,” says L Enterprises Founder David Lubin. “I look forward to working with the new team to ensure that this project represents the kind of development I imagined when I began planning it a decade ago: commercial space for light industrial/manufacturing and small businesses, housing options, parks, and public art. It is rooted in the community and will anchor the continuing revitalization of the entire region.”

“We’re excited to build on the project’s momentum and ongoing workforce development efforts with community partners and the City and Town of Ithaca,” says US Ceiling Corp President Melissa James-Geska. “SouthWorks is a robust model of holistic real estate development; community and collaboration; sustainability; and opportunity. Together, we are determined to create something that delivers on its promise for the people of Ithaca.”

“Community outcomes are at the core of everything we do,” says Xylem Projects Founder and CEO Nnenna Lynch. “We’re excited to join the great work already underway and the opportunity to be part of the long-term vision for Ithaca, as well as ensuring SouthWorks is built for all of its constituents, particularly local residents.”

“I’m excited to join the SHIFT Capital team and implement a whole-neighborhood approach to the redevelopment of the old Morse Chain factory site,” says Project Coordinator Vicki Taylor Brous. “The plant brought prosperity to the area for more than 100 years and holds a lot of historical importance to the Ithaca community. After a decade of perseverance, tenacity and hard work, Emerson Power Transmission, David Lubin and their respective teams have made the site ready for redevelopment. Through thoughtful and community-forward planning, and a great team selected to accomplish it, we look forward to revitalizing the site and making it an asset to the community once again.”

In addition to the four partners, the site will utilize the talents of CJS Architects, Fagan Engineers, SCAPE Landscape Architecture, and Buro Happold as the sustainability consultants.

The History and Future of the Site
The site at 620 South Aurora Street, located in both the City and Town of Ithaca, has remained vacant for 11 years. It had been used for manufacturing everything from industrial chains and automotive parts to Tommy airplanes used in World War I. Morse Chain occupied the facility from 1906 until 1928 when they joined with BorgWarner, which owned the property from 1928 to 1982. Emerson Power Transmission continued manufacturing at the site from 1983 until its closure in 2011. The site provided much needed jobs for residents and drew immigration to the area, whether they worked at the factory or on the supportive infrastructure, including the rail lines that ran to the site.

In July 2013, Emerson Power Transmission selected David Lubin of L Enterprises to develop the site due to his knowledge of the Ithaca area and his passion for its development. Emerson and Lubin, with guidance from the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), then partnered over the next decade to make the 95-acre property one of New York State’s most thoroughly environmentally investigated and remediated sites. Although the property was initially slated to be brought up to industrial standards, after thousands of tests, tracing and planning, the majority (90+ acres) of the site has now been remediated to residential standards. A Record of Decision Amendment and a Site Management Plan were approved by the DEC in October of 2022.

When complete, SouthWorks will include the revitalization of 850,000 square feet of existing buildings and will total more than 1.7 million square feet. The site has gained City of Ithaca Site Plan Approval and EIS approvals. In addition to the on-site work, the Gateway Trail, which runs at the base of the property, will be developed in partnership with the City of Ithaca and will connect the South Hill Recreation Trail to Buttermilk Falls and the Kirby Edmunds Bridge.

Planning for SouthWorks is under way with anticipated announcements regarding the next phase in the development expected in early 2023. For more information on SouthWorks, please visit southworksithaca.com and sign up for updates.

About SHIFT Capital
SHIFT Capital is a nationally recognized neighborhood investment group who executes real estate projects and financing strategies that create equitable and mixed-income communities for the long-term. SHIFT believes community-centered investments create shared and sustainable economic opportunity and growth, and impact that unites people, businesses, neighborhoods and cities. To date, SHIFT has invested more than $330 million in the neighborhoods they serve to create ecosystems that strengthen entrepreneurship, creativity and value for tenants, and health and safety for communities. SHIFT owns and manages a mix of two million square feet of new and refactored industrial, commercial and residential spaces for small businesses, entrepreneurs and residents. For more information: visit SHIFTcapital.us, Instagram: @shift_capital and LinkedIn: SHIFT Capital

About L Enterprises
L Enterprises is a real estate development company started in 1980 by David Lubin. L Enterprises has developed a wide scope of projects throughout New York, including the Hilton Garden Inn located in Elmira, Hampton Inns in Elmira and Oneonta, and 115,000 SF of medical offices with an ambulatory surgical center in Big Flats. L Enterprises is also responsible for the success of a 525-acre business park and residential development in Athens Township, PA. L Enterprises lead the Harold’s Square development, a 12-story building in the center of Ithaca, with 78 apartments, 50,000 SF of office space and 16,000 SF of retail space valued at more than $60 million. As the SouthWorks developer since 2010, David brings an unmatched knowledge of the site and the broader Ithaca development area.

About US Ceiling Corp
Founded in 2001, US Ceiling Corp is a social impact firm that specializes in interior commercial, multifamily and residential construction. Now in its 21st year, the award-winning NYS Certified M/WBE 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. For more information, visit usceiling.com, Instagram: @us_ceiling_corp and LinkedIn: US Ceiling Corp

About Xylem Projects
Xylem Projects is a mission-driven real estate development and investment firm. As an NYC and NYS Certified M/WBE business, Xylem is dedicated to preserving housing and creating mixed-use projects in which tenant and community outcomes are front and center. Xylem seeks to make investments that help communities thrive and is guided by its four pillars of community enrichment, design, sustainability, and innovation. For more information, visit xylem.nyc

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US Ceiling proud to provide interior construction solutions for Hamilton Stern’s Open Door Mission project

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the completion of Open Door Mission’s $6.8 million development of the Miller Building in Rochester to include 24 units of permanent supportive housing for former homeless individuals. Funded largely by the Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance’s Homeless Housing and Assistance Program, the apartments will be occupied by individuals with mental illness, those struggling with substance use disorder and youth ages 18 to 25. 

“These new apartments will provide not just a safe and affordable place to live, but also the supportive services needed to thrive,” Governor Hochul said. “Supportive housing like the Miller Building in Rochester is a critical component of my administration’s commitment to building inclusive communities that help ensure all New Yorkers have a safe, affordable place to call home, and we will continue to invest in supportive housing as a fundamental part of our efforts to address homelessness across the state.” 

Read NYS’ full press release hereopens PDF file .

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US Ceiling Corp recognized as a Level Up Champion by RMAPI

Rochester-Monroe Anti-Poverty Initiative program celebrates organizations whose starting wage is $15 or higher

WEBSTER, N.Y., July 8, 2022—Rochester-Monroe Anti-Poverty Initiative (RMAPI) today recognized US Ceiling as a Level Up Champion. The program celebrates employers who have made the decision to increase their starting wage, showing that doing the right thing is part of their company’s DNA.

“Making this pledge to RMAPI is an easy decision,” says US Ceiling President Melissa James-Geska. “We increased our minimum base salary from $15 to $16 per hour in June of 2021, as it aligns with our longstanding commitment to invest in our employees. Our people, who are the soul of our organization, remain our greatest asset.”

The Level Up Champion distinction signifies to current and potential employees that an organization is committed to fighting poverty. RMAPI recognizes these organizations and hopes to inspire other employers to commit to a $15/hour starting wage and be part of the wider movement to lift the entire Rochester community.

“We are proud to be among many other organizations who are recognized as a Level Up Champion and hope other employers answer RMAPI’s call to action,” says James-Geska.

To learn more about Rochester-Monroe Anti-Poverty Initiative and become a Level Up Champion, visit www.levelupchampion.org.

About US Ceiling Corp
Founded in 2001, US Ceiling Corp (usceiling.com) is a social impact subcontractor that specializes in interior commercial, multifamily and residential construction. Now in its 21st 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, including the Urban League of Rochester and ITEC (Isaac Training & Education Center) 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 promotes Laura West to vice president of business development

WEBSTER, N.Y., February 2, 2022—US Ceiling Corp, an award-winning social impact subcontractor, is pleased to announce the promotion of Laura West to vice president of business development.

In her new position, West aims to strengthen existing client relationships, promote US Ceiling’s role as a long-standing trusted resource and identify emerging gaps or opportunities in the marketplace. She will also work to enhance the firm’s corporate strategy in conjunction with its executive leadership team.

“Laura continues to build momentum within our company, including growing our people, our client base and opening new channels of revenue,” says US Ceiling President Melissa Geska. “She is committed to raising the bar at every turn to establish a truly differentiating experience in terms of creating and cultivating construction relationships. Her ability to significantly impact our organization by combining her people skills and her purpose-driven spirit makes us a best-in-class team capable of supporting and exceeding our industry’s needs.”

West brings more than 30 years of business and corporate strategy experience, including community outreach, marketing, real estate and program development. She joined US Ceiling in 2018 as director of USC Academy, helping launch [and develop curricula for] the company’s workforce development program, which is designed to cross-train and enhance the skills of existing field staff and provide priority populations in the Rochester community with skilled trades training and employment opportunities. In late 2020, West stepped into the role of director of human resources, overseeing employee onboarding and annual reviews.

“I am very excited to take on my new role,” says West. “The breadth of construction expertise combined with the investments in our people and work scopes position the company for significant growth potential. I am eager to focus on client engagement and strategic initiatives as we continue to provide our customers with successful project outcomes and exceptional service.”

West holds a B.A. in psychology from the University of Rochester and is an SOS (Save our Sodus) board member and co-founder of the Rochester Business Hall of Fame. She is a former board member for the American Red Cross and Habitat for Humanity, and has served as a United Way volunteer. West is a local real estate investor and NYS licensed salesperson, working in commercial and residential sales for Coldwell Banker. She resides in the Webster area.

About US Ceiling Corp

Founded in 2001, US Ceiling Corp (usceiling.com) is a social impact subcontractor that specializes in interior commercial, multifamily and residential construction. Now in its 21st 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, including the Urban League of Rochester and ITEC (Isaac Training & Education Center) 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 and The Daily Record Announce 2021 Excellence in Construction & Real Estate Awards

US Ceiling Corp and Melissa Geska honored in company and individual categories

News Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                             

CONTACT:    Suzanne Fischer-Huettner

EMAIL:            opens in a new windowshuettner@bridgetowermedia.comcreate new email

Rochester, N.Y., (September 17, 2021) — Rochester Business Journal and The Daily Record have selected US Ceiling Corp and company president, Melissa Geska, to receive a 2021 Excellence in Construction & Real Estate Award.

The 2021 Excellence in Construction & Real Estate Awards celebrate the individuals and companies who are changing the landscape of the Rochester region through design, construction, project management, innovation and more. These individuals and organizations are creating jobs, building healthy spaces, helping families and companies achieve their dreams, and leading the way toward growth and prosperity for the community.

Honorees in the construction category include architects, developers, engineers, general contractors, homebuilders, interior design/staging, project managers, subcontractors and rising stars. Real estate categories are commercial real estate agents, residential real estate agents and rising star.

Honorees for the 2021 Excellence in Construction & Real Estate Awards were chosen by the editorial staff of the Rochester Business Journal and The Daily Record.

“The 2021 Excellence in Construction & Real Estate honorees transform ideas into reality. They are changing the landscape in the Greater Rochester region through their incredible professional success and community involvement,” said Suzanne Fischer-Huettner, senior group publisher of the Rochester Business Journal and The Daily Record. “This year’s recipients create jobs and help families and organizations realize their dreams. We at the Rochester Business Journal and The Daily Record congratulate them for all their accomplishments.”

The honorees will be recognized during an online celebration on Oct. 27 at noon. Each will be celebrated for their achievements through video storytelling. Guests will have the opportunity to participate in the program with their congratulations and cheers using social media platforms from their homes or offices. For tickets, visit https://rbj.net/events/construction-and-real-estate/ or https://nydailyrecord.com/excellence-in-construction-and-real-estate/. The event hashtags are #RBJevents and #TDRevents.

In addition, a VIP happy hour for winners and sponsors will take place Oct. 27 from 4:30 to 6 p.m. at the Genesee Valley Club, 421 East Avenue in Rochester.

Honorees will be profiled in the Oct. 28 issue of The Daily Record and in the Oct. 29 issue of the Rochester Business Journal and online at rbj.net and at nydailyrecord.com.

The Presenting Sponsor is Phillips Lytle LLP.

For more information about sponsorships and tickets for the 2021 Excellence in Construction & Real Estate Awards, visit rbj.net or nydailyrecord.com or email Suzanne Fischer-Huettner at opens in a new windowshuettner@bridgetowermedia.comcreate new email.

About the Rochester Business Journal

For 34 years, the Rochester Business Journal has served as the leading source of business news and information in Rochester, N.Y. In addition to its website,  opens in a new windowrbj.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 honors leading Rochesterians through 11 annual awards events including Forty Under 40, Icon Honors, Women of Excellence and Reader Rankings. Its Digital Marketing Solutions helps customers with social media, search engine marketing and optimization, retargeting, email marketing and more. Rochester Business Journal is 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.

About The Daily Record

The Daily Record has been providing essential legal news and information to Western New York for 113 years. With insightful articles and columns keeping the community apprised of the latest industry trends; local, state and federal decisions; judgments, foreclosures and public notice information; plus comprehensive listings of up-to-date business transactions for Monroe County, The Daily Record is your source for all things law, real estate and finance. The Daily Record is 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.

2021 Excellence in Construction & Real Estate Honorees

Construction – Companies

Architects

Greater Living Architecture P.C.

Developers

Buckingham Properties

DiMarco Group

Rochester’s Cornerstone Group Ltd.

Engineers

BME Associates

General Contractors

DiMarco Group

DiPasquale Construction Inc.

Manning Squires Hennig

Homebuilders

Antonelli Construction LLC

Pinnacle Homes

Riedman

Project Managers

DGA Builders

Subcontractors

Hewitt Young Electric

O’Connell Electric Company

US Ceiling Corp

Construction – Individuals

Architects

Caitlin Ellis, AIA, SWBR

Jessica Kruse, LaBella Associates DPC

Developers

Michael Birkby, Conifer Realty LLC

Eugenio Marlin, Ibero-American Development Corporation

General Contractors

Brian P. Kelly, Manning Squires Hennig

Ken Ogden, LECESSE CONSTRUCTION

Jerry Serafine, Renaissance Restoration of Rochester LLC

Interior Design/Staging

Danielle Lewis, LaBella Associates DPC

Project Manager

Robert Miller, O’Connell Electric Company

Rising Stars

Samuel Burke, DGA Builders

Aaron Gross, Upstate Roofing & Painting

Elizabeth Kirchhoff, AIA, SWBR

Subcontractors

Melissa Geska, US Ceiling Corp

Matthew Martin, Tactical Construction Inc.

Real Estate – Individuals

Commercial Real Estate Agents

R. Scott Burdett, Flaum Management Company Inc.

Daniel J. O’Neill, SIOR, Pyramid Brokerage Company

John A. Rogers, SIOR, Pyramid Brokerage Company

Residential Real Estate Agents

Michael DiBiase, Conifer Realty LLC

Elaine Pelissier, Keller Williams Realty

Hannah Romano, Carriage House Realty by Nick

Rising Star

Amy Olds, Buckingham Properties

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