Signature Events

The Louis R. Miller Business Leadership Awards

In 1993, 24 Staten Island business owners and professionals, organized by Louis R. Miller, came together to form the Business Education Development Council (BEDC) for the College of Staten Island, chaired by John J. Amodio. The council acted as a liaison between the business community and the college to help fulfill the need to provide continuing education to business people on Staten Island.

In 1994, council members wanted to recognize small business owners and non-profit leaders for their accomplishments, and highlight them as role models for others. Shortly before the first recognition was given, Mr. Miller passed away. Mr. Amodio, on behalf of the BEDC, worked with Brian Laline, editor of the Staten Island Advance, to initiate the first Louis R. Miller Business Leadership Award. The award was created in memory of the tireless community activist who supported a variety of charitable, cultural, and educational institutions in Staten Island.

In 1996, the Staten Island Chamber of Commerce assumed control of running the annual awards program. Since its inception, more than 250 people have been recognized with a Louis R. Miller Business Leadership Award.

Chamber Galas

The Annual Gala is the Chamber’s longest-running program and one of Staten Island’s premier business and social events. Each year, the guest list includes the Chamber’s Board of Directors and other leaders, business owners, executives, community leaders, and elected officials. The Gala features an array of fun, themed games for a chance to win special prizes. “It’s wonderful to see the business community come together to strengthen its impact in the community. Each year attendance continues to grow and we are excited to see so many businesses engaged,” said Linda Baran, president and CEO of the Chamber. Many other Staten Island businesses help sponsor the Gala, which is the biggest fundraising event of the year for the Chamber.

FDNY & NYPD Awards

These events give the Chamber and the business community the chance to thank New York’s Finest and Bravest for their hard work and bravery in keeping Staten Island a safe place to live and work. Police Officers and Firefighters are nominated and featured in the Staten Island Advance. The Chamber’s Safety and Security Committee reviews all nominations and carefully chooses the honorees to be celebrated at the luncheons.

Annual Meeting

Every year, the Chamber holds a membership meeting to update its members on new initiatives and to offer business owners an opportunity to hear from various experts on business-related topics. President and CEO Linda Baran provides a recap of the Chamber’s year and discusses programs and events with members. Members have the opportunity to share comments and ask questions. The annual meeting is open to all Chamber of Commerce members at no cost. 

Annual Building Awards

This annual event honors a variety of Staten Island properties, recognizing their excellence and achievement in design and construction. Awards are presented in the following categories: Exterior, interior, natural beauty, outdoor space design, interior decorating, craftsmanship, art and/or green building. Each entry is judged by a panel of industry experts. Special discretionary awards include: Hard Hat Award; Economic Development Award; Neighborhood Improvement Award; Tiny Gem Award; Adaptive Reuse Award; Sandy Restoration Award; Best in Green Award; and Historic Renovation Award, which reflected the thoughtfulness and talents of the applicants’ added level of achievement. 

Golf Outing

Chamber golf outings are opportunities to spend a day on the golf course with other professionals from the Staten Island business community. Golf outings usually conclude with a cocktail hour and dinner.

Plus, members have the opportunity to showcase their businesses via signage, sponsorships, food and vendor tables, and more.