Alicia Ernest Appointed New Executive Director of FOCUS Greater Syracuse

News Summary

Alicia Ernest has been appointed the new executive director of FOCUS Greater Syracuse, Inc., effective May 9, 2023. She succeeds Rita Reicher, who held the acting director role since 2020. FOCUS Greater Syracuse focuses on enhancing the business landscape in the region. Ernest is expected to lead with renewed community engagement and commitment to local enterprises. Recent developments include significant investments in healthcare and educational collaboration, highlighting ongoing efforts to support economic growth in Central New York.

Syracuse – Alicia Ernest has been appointed as the new executive director of FOCUS Greater Syracuse, Inc., effective May 9, 2023. Ernest succeeds Rita Reicher, who has held the position of acting executive director since 2020, continuing in her role as the president during that time. FOCUS Greater Syracuse is dedicated to enhancing the business landscape in Syracuse, Central New York, and the surrounding areas.

The announcement comes at an important time for the organization as it continues to invest in initiatives that positively influence local businesses and foster economic growth. Ernest brings a wealth of experience to her new role and is expected to lead FOCUS Greater Syracuse with a renewed focus on community engagement and support for local enterprises.

Additional developments in the region include the Design and Construction Corporation’s initiative to finance nearly $36 million in new medical equipment for Upstate Medical University through the Dormitory Authority State of New York (DASNY) program. This investment highlights ongoing commitments to advancing healthcare infrastructure in Central New York.

The Cornhill Empowerment Center is preparing for its formal opening on June 18, which promises to enhance community services and empower residents in the area. The center aims to provide various resources and programs, aiming to further uplift the local community.

In the realm of innovation and education, SUNY Polytechnic Institute has expanded its research and innovation partnership with AIS. This collaboration is expected to foster technological advancements and further promote economic development in the region.

Meanwhile, a recent report from the week of May 12 through May 16 indicates a surge in new business registrations in the area, with County Clerk offices across Onondaga, Cayuga, Cortland, and Madison counties registering a total of 30 new businesses. Among these were two food truck enterprises and a robotics development business. Additionally, a new corporation registered in Cortland County, while two establishments registered for discontinuing operations in Onondaga County, reflecting the dynamic nature of the local business ecosystem.

Sapphire Recruitment, formerly known as CPS Recruitment, has also undergone a significant transformation by rebranding and relocating its headquarters from Liverpool to the Inner Harbor in Syracuse. The company’s CEO, Susan Crossett, has articulated that the rebranding is aimed at showcasing a forward-thinking approach while enhancing the firm’s accessibility and impact on both businesses and job seekers in the region. The company plans to maintain its dedicated team and core values while further expanding its reach and capabilities.

These developments collectively illustrate ongoing efforts to bolster economic growth and community support systems within Syracuse and Central New York. With the appointment of Alicia Ernest as the new executive director of FOCUS Greater Syracuse, the region is poised for continued advancements in business and community development.

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Additional Resources

• CNY Business Journal
• Wikipedia: Syracuse, New York
• Syracuse.com
• Google Search: Syracuse business growth
• Syracuse.com
• Google Scholar: Syracuse economic development
• Syracuse.com
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Syracuse, New York