The 2026 Annual Awards Breakfast

The Corning Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to host its 2026 Annual Awards Breakfast, a celebration of exceptional leadership, business achievement, and community involvement in the Corning area.

Each year, this special event brings together business leaders, professionals, and community members to recognize the individuals and organizations whose dedication, innovation, and service make a lasting impact on our region.

Join us on Friday, November 6, 2026, at 8:00 AM at Corning Country Club as we celebrate this year's outstanding honorees!

Meet the 2026 Annual Award Recipients

Young Professional Leadership Award

Jeff Shedd | Siemens Energy

Jeff Shedd is a Business Excellence Professional at Siemens Energy in Painted Post, where he focuses on Lean practices and continuous improvement. A graduate of Alfred University and Baldwin Wallace University, Jeff is passionate about mentoring young professionals, supporting engineering interns, and helping attract new talent to the Corning area. He also serves on the Corning Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, demonstrating his commitment to strengthening both his profession and the community.

Business Achievement Award

Corning Museum of Glass

A world-renowned cultural institution and cornerstone of the Corning community, the Corning Museum of Glass celebrates the art, history, and science of glass through its extraordinary collections, exhibitions, educational programs, and live glassmaking experiences. The Museum attracts visitors from around the world, supports local tourism and economic vitality, and continues to inspire creativity, innovation, and a deeper appreciation for the region's rich glassmaking heritage.

Lifetime Achievement Award

Dan Meisner | Siemens Energy

Dan Meisner is recognized for his longstanding leadership at Siemens Energy and his dedication to making a meaningful difference in the Corning area. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Dan has demonstrated a lasting commitment to his community through service, mentorship, and youth coaching. His leadership, integrity, and willingness to invest in others have helped shape both the workplace and the community, leaving a positive impact that extends well beyond his career.

Tali Sutton GEM Award: Going the Extra Mile

Cindy Lewis | CareFirstNY

The Chamber is proud to introduce the Tali Sutton GEM Award in 2026, honoring the compassion, joy, and unwavering commitment to community that defined Tali's life.

As the inaugural recipient, Cindy Lewis exemplifies the spirit of this meaningful recognition. Through more than two decades of nonprofit service and her work with CareFirstNY, Cindy has demonstrated a deep commitment to supporting individuals and families throughout our region. Her compassionate leadership, genuine connections, and dedication to uplifting others reflect the kindness, inclusion, and community spirit that Tali embodied.

Join Us in Celebrating!

The Annual Awards Breakfast is more than an awards ceremony. It's an opportunity to come together, recognize remarkable achievements, and celebrate the people and organizations helping our community thrive.

Friday, November 6, 2026
8:00 AM | Corning Country Club
2501 Country Club Drive, Corning, NY

Guests will enjoy breakfast while celebrating the accomplishments and contributions of this year's honorees.

We invite Chamber members, community leaders, colleagues, friends, and family to join us for this special morning of recognition and celebration.

Reserve your seat and help us honor the individuals and organizations making a difference in the Corning area!