NIAGARA FALLS, N.Y. — The Niagara USA Chamber of Commerce recognized an outstanding group of business and community leaders at its 2026 Chamber Honors Luncheon, held May 14 at the DoubleTree by Hilton Niagara Falls. More than 200 people attended the event, which celebrated organizations and individuals making a meaningful impact across Niagara County.
See the 2026 Niagara USA Chamber Honors Awards Luncheon Photo Gallery
Awards presented during the luncheon reflected excellence in business leadership, innovation, collaboration, advocacy, hospitality, sustainability, and community service.
“This luncheon gave us the opportunity to recognize a remarkable group of honorees whose work is helping move Niagara County forward in very real ways,” said Craig Turner, interim executive director of the Niagara USA Chamber of Commerce. “Some of these contributions are highly visible, while others happen behind the scenes, but all of them are inspiriting – and all of them matter. This year’s honorees reflect the leadership, vision, service, and commitment that continue to strengthen our business community and our region as a whole.”
The 2026 Chamber Honors award recipients were:
Business of the Year: Wurlitzer Building – Tom and Jane Austen
Recognized for their vision, leadership, and investment in transforming the historic Wurlitzer Building into a thriving destination for business, dining, events, and community activity in North Tonawanda.
Business Person of the Year: Edla Collora, Harrison Place
Honored for her day-to-day leadership in the continued revitalization of Harrison Place in Lockport, helping turn a complex redevelopment project into a growing hub for business, entrepreneurship, and community pride.
Small Business of the Year: Willie Price, A Better YOU Lifestyle
Recognized for building a business that addresses important community needs through aging-in-place education and support for seniors, as well as youth development through athletics, mentorship, and personal growth.
Young Professional of the Year: Sydney Watters, Platter’s Chocolate Factory
Honored for her professional leadership, community involvement, and active engagement with the Chamber, including her role on the Chamber’s Events Committee.
Father Levesque Community Advocacy Award: Hon. Angelo Morinello
Recognized for a lifetime of public service and advocacy on behalf of the people of Niagara County through his work as a soldier, attorney, judge, and Assemblymember.
Green Award: Niagara Falls High School
Honored for its growing commitment to environmental education, student-led sustainability efforts, and hands-on opportunities that help develop future environmental leaders.
Collaboration / Partnership Award: Niagara County Agribusiness Outreach Forum
Recognized for demonstrating the power of cross-sector collaboration through a longstanding partnership among the Niagara County Department of Economic Development, Niagara USA Chamber, SUNY Niagara Small Business Development Center, Cornell Cooperative Extension of Niagara County, and the Niagara County Farm Bureau.
Innovation Award: Niagara County Fair
Honored for reimagining the traditional fair experience through new programming, expanded partnerships, and a modernized marketing approach that broadened community engagement and increased visibility.
Spirit of Hospitality Award: Newfane & Olcott Beach Tourism Committee
Recognized for promoting local businesses, attractions, events, and visitor experiences that have helped strengthen Newfane and Olcott Beach as a welcoming destination.
Full bios of 2026 Chamber Honors Awards honorees
In addition to this year’s award recipients, the Chamber also recognized longtime board members Doug Elia, Gay Molnar, and Ed D’Amico for their years of dedicated service to the organization.
The luncheon brought together business leaders, elected officials, community partners, and Chamber members from across the region to celebrate the people and organizations helping shape Niagara County’s future.
For more information about the Niagara USA Chamber of Commerce, visit www.niagarachamber.org.
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About the Niagara USA Chamber of Commerce
The Niagara USA Chamber of Commerce serves as a leading advocate for business growth, economic vitality, and regional collaboration across Niagara County.